МАТИЦА В ТРАДИЦИОННЫХ ПРЕДСТАВЛЕНИЯХ И ОБРЯДНОСТИ УДМУРТОВ

Abstract

One of the most significant structural elements in the dwelling of the Udmurts, as well as of other Finno-Ugric, Turkic and Slavic peoples of the Russian forest belt, was the cross beam log (matitsa) - a supporting beam supporting the ceiling. Semantics and symbolism of the traditional East Slavic dwelling, including matitsa, are considered in detail by A.K. Bayburin. His theoretical conceptions were successfully approved by G.K. Shklyaev and P.A. Orlov in the Finno-Ugric (Udmurtian) material and by A.K. Salmin and V.V. Medvedev in the Turkic (Chuvash) material. The importance of the functions of matitsa is due to the presence of a number of symbolic meanings attributed to it, the set of beliefs and rituals associated with it, its role is brightly reflected in folklore, especially in the riddles. A large number of building rituals called to ensure well-being, prosperity and warmth in the home are associated with matitsa. The integrity of the home and the success of life in it depended on the correctness of its installation. Laying the mat was interpreted as the birth of a house. There were many symbolic meanings attached to it. Matitsa is the very first, internal boundary separating the mastered space from the outside world. Its boundary functions determined its susceptibility to the influence of other forces. Therefore rituals were performed under it when there was a need to contact with the beyond. There were also special protective techniques to limit its permeability. The ceiling beam is the topographic center of the house and guardian of its inhabitants. It is also a vivid symbol of the world tree, which is seen in building ceremonies. The matitsa is the symbolic equivalent of the whole house, the point of unfolding and winding up the ritual space. All these symbolic meanings, representations and rituals are based on the deep roots of the ancient house-building traditions that developed in the area during the construction of wooden dwellings. In connection with the beginning of construction of houses from new materials, the matitza is falling out of use. But part of the rituals associated with it is preserved. In the article the available data are generalized and new empirical material on this topic for the Udmurts is introduced.