Welcome to the folklore page, where you will learn about the epics, oral folklore, minor genres, rites, and rituals of the Nenets.
During the awakening of nature, offerings are brought to the earth and water. In the morning, young women gather wild rosemary. Their mothers then soak the gathered branches in a prepared infusion of chaga mushroom. Closer to noon, they sprinkle this infusion to purify the reindeer, their winter sleds, and their dwellings. Meanwhile, a pot boils on the fire, the men dry the sacred sleds, and the children play. If any fishing nets have been set, the young men go to check them. After purifying the home, the sleds, and the family members, the women begin to set a small table for the sacred sled. Once the table is prepared, the men place it next to the sacred sled. The family members then gather to share a meal around a separate table.
Invocations (Zaklichki) used to change the weather.
I. Invocations to change the weather. An appeal to the loon (diver) during hot weather and midges:
-
Loon, loon, bring the wind, Loon, bring the coolness.
II. If the weather is rainy and very chilly, one should say the following invocation to the flying and crying loons:
-
Loon, loon, take away the rain, take away the wind, Loon, loon, bring sunny weather.
Omen If a loon makes a deep, resonant cry, the weather will definitely change. And the next day, there will be a strong wind and coolness will arrive.
III. During a thunderstorm, especially a severe one, the following invocation should be spoken:
-
Rumble beyond the seas, far beyond the seas, For right here, right here, Are the bones of the deceased, like ancient driftwood— You will break the runners of your sleds (narty).
(Note: "Zaklichki" are traditional folklore incantations or ritual chants used to summon or influence forces of nature.)
Invocations (churyiptso/khnuptso) used to change the weather.
I. Invocations to change the weather. An appeal to the loon (diver) during hot weather and midges:
- Loon, loon, bring the wind, Loon, bring the coolness.
II. If the weather is rainy and very chilly, one should say the following invocation to the flying and crying loons:
- Loon, loon, take away the rain, take away the wind, Loon, loon, bring sunny weather.
Omen
If a loon makes a deep, resonant cry, the weather will definitely change. And the next day, there will be a strong wind and coolness will arrive.
III. During a thunderstorm, especially a severe one, the following invocation should be spoken:
- Rumble beyond the seas, far beyond the seas, For right here, right here, Are the bones of the deceased, like ancient driftwood— You will break the runners of your sleds (narty).
Tundra Nomads: The Nenets and Their Folklore.pdf
Proverbs and Sayings: Download
