Ob-Ugric Institute of Applied Researches and Development, Khanty-Mansiysk, Russian Federation, rusina-popova@yandex.ru
ABSTRACT
Introduction: based on the materials of the Northern Mansi group, the article examines the essence and specifics of the symbolic meaning of ritual purification, as well as the types, functions and methods of cleansing actions aimed at ridding a person of the influence of evil forces from the other world that can harm him. The main attributes of ritual purification, their use and storage features are represented.
Objective: to identify the semantic features of apotropaic actions and purification means in the traditional culture of the Mansi people.
Research materials: published works on Mansi ethnography, folklore samples, the author’s field materials.
Results and novelty of the research: the author’s field material on the spiritual culture of the Mansi people, particularly the tradition of ritual purification, is introduced into scientific circulation. The author systematizes four types of purification actions: fumigation (with scent or smoke); washing (with “pure” water / snow or steam); purification by fire; and purification by sound. The means of purification of animal and vegetable origin, their purpose and methods of use are given. The role of apotropaic objects as protective magical systems of ritual purification, as well as ways to enhance the sacred effect on the purification process and their ranking by impact, is particularly noted.
Key words: apotrope, amulet, magic, purification rituals, symbolism, semantics, traditional culture of the Mansi people
For citation: Popova S. A. Ritual purification in the Mansi tradition: symbolic aspect // Vestnik ugrovedenia = Bulletin of Ugric Studies. 2025; 15 (3/62): 556–566.