Traditions of Ossetia. Traditions and customs Ossetians and Ossetian national cuisine

Guest meeting

An old custom prescribes such an order of the meeting and reception of the guest. The traveler arrived at the horse, stopped at Konovyzya and waited until the owner comes out of the house. Only then the rider was dismounted, He greed with the owner and replaced the threshold of the house. The guest was put on the honorary place at the table, and all the households took part in the guest's clothing. Hot cakes, beer and Arak were served on the table. If the guest stayed in the house for the night, then the lamb was hardened, so that the table could be applied from fresh meat. In each house, the supplies were always available with whom it was possible to adequate guest.

Another old Ossetian custom is a solemn offer to the guest of the honorable glade (Nuzana). Upon handing it, you need to drink the contents of the glass, but to attack the guest for the Ossetians is considered a shame.

Customs feast

For Ossetians, a feast is a ritual action. Sitting at the table, at first pray to all the heavenly patrons of Ossetians. During the feast, all the laws of worship of the elders are strictly observed. According to spiritual and moral heritage, Ossetians amounted to a set of rules that must be respected during the feast.

1. The Ossetian table is recognized by the holy place, so the table is not permissible at the table.
2. Seed at the table for seniority.
3. If the guest Guest is late, then it will first be summarized to a senior family member of the family, and then putting a glass of the Guest "counter"
4. The table is sitting in tidy clothes.
5. Not accepted during feast in circulation. To get out of the table, you need to ask the resolution from the older and only after there are already three mandatory toasts.
6. It is considered indecent to drink between toast or arbitrary toas.
7. If the elders get up during the pronunciation of the toast, then younger do not have the right to sit.
8. With all the abundance of packaging toasts, add-on, which is considered a big shame for Ossetians.
9. On the table on the occasion of traditional holidays, it is not customary to serve meals from pork, although in everyday life pork is eaten.

Why does the pork dishes do not serve on the wedding table?

Because from among the invited guests can be Ossetian-Muslims, which can not eat pork. In all this wedding couder, it is impossible to allow the first marriage night to be forgotten by the festive feast.

Wedding tradition of the Ossetian people

Council

Ossetian wedding begins with the match. Choons from among the relatives of the groom are sent to the parents of the Choves.

The next stage of pre-wedding training is Fidid - a marriage agreement. The groom's family leaves the parents of the bride a certain amount as the guarantee of the upcoming kinship of two clans. Then the organizational issues of the wedding are solved. A few days after Fidid, the bridegroom, together with his mother, come to the house of the bride. This secret visit is called Susagtsyd and means the last meeting of the groom with the bride before the wedding. During Susagtsyd, the groom giving women candies, and the bride gives the wedding ring.

Council

On the day of the wedding to the house of the bride drives up a wedding tuple, which the relatives of the bride meet wine glasses and are invited to the house where guests are waiting for a covering table. The central dish on the table is the head and neck of the animal sacrificed. While the bride is clogged into the wedding outfit, you read all the necessary prayer weddings at the table.

After redemption - in the house of the groom

After the ritual of the redemption of the bride, it will be finally taken into the house of the future husband. Newlyweds makes all the rites prescribed by wedding customs: removes veil, treats the mother-in-law and other senior women with honey and fucked butter. During the rapid wedding fun, the bride stands in the corner of the room guarded by two young relatives. According to the old custom, the groom was not allowed to be admitted to the bride. Now this custom softened a little and already on the second day the bride and groom are reunited.
Ossetian holidays

Ossetians, along with a significant public-political development, managed to preserve and rather strong patriarchal-generics, traditions and customs of their ancestors. One of the most interesting and significant components of these traditions is the Ossetian feasting etiquette, with many of it "it is impossible", "accepted is not accepted." Moreover, traditions can change somewhat depending on the rage origin of this community, and sometimes even between neighboring villages. But the basis of them is one, which goes down the roots in the depths of the centuries, revealing the nature and inner world of the ancient people.

Below we will try to describe the generalized rules and norms of the Ossetian feast. We hope that they are read with interest not only the Ossetians, but also representatives of other peoples, not indifferent to the history and culture of Sarmatov - Alan - Ossetians.

The traditional feast has never been for Ossetian only the place of eating, drinking and communicating. It is closely related to their faith, lifelong lifestyle and social behavior standards. For someone who had never come across the Ossetian feasting etiquette, the presence of many unprofitable rules and restrictions, which in Ossetia still adhere to the official table, may seem unusual and strange and unnecessary. But for Ossetian, these norms are part of his being and worldview, part of his spiritual and moral heritage.

Since official religions were established in Ossetia relatively recently, it was at the table of Ossetians who most often prayed to God and the Holy Patrons. From here and the place of the feast of the "fignas" (literally "table") was also a holy place for which liberty was not allowed or unworthy behavior. Once upon a time, now the deceased, famous Ossetian artist of theater and cinema Bibo Vataev (Rukhsag Uad), sitting for the senior instructed us, young:

"Our ancestors had no churches and mosques. Fig and was their most affordable holy place. The Ossetians prayed here, communicated, took important decisions. And therefore, do not forget to behave at the table as it is necessary to behave near the holy places ... "

So, where does the Ossetian feast begins?

From covering the table, of course. And if the tables are usually covered with the intended number of guests and their tastes, in Ossetia, in addition to this, the coverage process itself is also regulated by tradition and other norms.

The first thing on the table is put straws with salt. Then, if some animal (cow, bull, ram) was scored for a feast, a wide plate with a carefully peeled and cooked head (without lower jaw and tongue) and the neck part of the animal ("Sir Eme Berzei" "). If a feast of good occasion, the neck of the animal should be located on the plate to the left of the head. On the commemoration - on the right side. About what is done for which it will be described below.

After that, traditional three pie and drinks are put on the table from the scene of the senior. Also on the table are plates with welded meat. From above, three pie near the elders put the right-hand shoulder part of the sacrificial animal ("Bazyg"), roasted on fire three right ribs solid piece and semumbura with a kebab from the liver, lungs and the hearts of the animal wrapped in a fat film ("EhSenbal"). In many areas of Ossetia, the right blade is also put on the head on the head of the sacrificial animal.

With the estimated number of approach sitting at the table, several plates with three pieces on each are put on the table. At the same time, in our time, 5-6 people usually serves one set of dishes and an odd amount of drinks.

When the table is covered, this is notified by the main manager ("Uynaffagaeg") or with small feasts - the owner of the house. They, in turn, invite guests at the table, starting with a pre-designated senior table ("Chistar" or "Bajti Histar"). And this place does not necessarily have to occupy the oldest by age. The main thing is to be one of the older present, he was also wise, restrained, eloquent and respected in society a person.

If guests come to the house and the feast is covered on this occasion, on the site of the eldest sits the owner of the house or someone from his closest relatives. In the case of weddings, big holidays ("Kuyvd") Senior feast is appointed in advance the main manager or the master of the house. In the Ossetian feast it is a very honorable and very responsible duty. It is not forces to perform it. Because it was from the older feast that the order at the table, compliance with the Ossetian norms and traditions, fun and ultimately - the mood of guests depends on the table. In addition, it should also be quite "hardy" in the ratio of alcohol.

Senior ("Hister") should sit from the end of the table to the east. If the feast passes in the room, where it is difficult to place the table from the east to the west, the eldest should sit from the end, which is away from the entrance to the room. Following the elders, all the "approximate" seniority is searched.

Previously (and today at official celebrations: weddings, religious holidays, wets), women did not sit at the male table. They were usually covered with a separate table where the corresponding etiquette was also observed. Nowadays, youth feasts are usually mixed, although men always sit behind the elders.

After everyone is rushed, someone from sitting just below (or Wyirdigowaag) spreads three pie in such a way that it seems that pirogs are three. At the same time, the upper pie must be shifted to the left of the older. Then, with the permission of the elder, one of the servants of young people ("Uyrdiguluaag" or "Uyrdygstag") should fill the glasses of three senior (starting from the first). For holidays in Ossetia and today, for the ascension of the first prayer to God and the sanctification of three ritual pies, the eldest is often poured by Ossetian beer in a special carved wooden vessel - "Baga" Kuus "(see photo). The replacement of beer with arachka or vodka for this incident should be considered a retreat from traditions.

The elder gets up with a beer in his right hand and a shoulder part of the crown animal ("Basig") - in the left. Following him all. In the right hand at the second senior (i.e., a sprouting right side of the first), and in the left three ribs. The third senior (to the left of the first) in the right hand is a glass, in the left sackner with a kebab. The feast begins.

The eldest feast loudly attributes the prayer to God and all the saints who worship the Ossetians, and sanctifying three pie (Art Kardzina Bastkutvd Uat!). Each phrase said by the senior is accompanied by a friendly exclamation of those present: "Amen Huytsau! (Amen) "until the elder finished prayer. After that, someone from the younger must symbolically bite off ("attachment") from the edge of the upper cake and take from the hands of the older bowl with beer and "bazyg". Moreover, in many villages of Ossetia, it should be first sulky from beer, and then bite off from the cake. Since the kneading joint of the animal "Basig" symbolizes the power and power, the transfer of "Basig" the younger is also symbolic.

There comes the cerebrals of the second senior to raise the prayer to God. It should not be more verbose than the first senior. His prayer, as well as any subsequent toast of the elders, is also accompanied by friendly "Amen Huytsau!" Sitting at the table. After completion, a glass and three ribs are also transmitted to someone from the younger. The third elder also utters a prayer to God and transmits his glass and chascur with a kebab to another younger.

Those who were handed over Kuvagkagta (older glasses), starting from the first, short, in a nutshell, thanks to the elders, the glory of God and drink or in the glands. After that, they must ask the serving (Wyirdigowuaag) to fill the glasses and transmit them back, respectively, three seniors. In the case when the younger is transmitted by the "Baga" Kuus ", they will turn off from it away, passing out of hand to hand until it devastates it.

Younger separate the "Basig" with a knife, cleaning the bone from meat. In the event that a ram was clogged, usually the bone goes on hand until someone from young people break her hands without the help of foreign objects. In those rare cases when it does not manage to do anyone, the young becomes the subject of friendly ridicule from those present. The elders are broken by the same "Basig", the Honorary Glass is presented, with wishes to add strength to their strength and always be with the first in all for the benefit of their family and all Ossetia. But all this happens much later, after the elder "Histar" utters the first few toast.

In the meantime, after the elder consecrated three traditional pie, "Wyardsigowaag" or someone from the younger shifts pies to the center and cuts them with a knife through the center (in diameter) to eight parts. At the same time, he should not rotate a plate with cakes. That a piece of the upper cake, from which the younger (Akhodeg) was transferred to himself.

When the elders again fill their glasses, "Hisstar" pronounces the toast for a single god ("Junag Kadjyn Shar Huytsau"), clinging at first with the second, and then with the third elders and drinks.

Further, all other participants of the feast in turn "from top to bottom" (from the elders to the younger) join the said, linen with two next, drink and sit down. In Ossetia, it is not taken to drink silently. Everyone must in a short form to "pass" the content of the toast to the next two (someone opposite, and the one who is near), to choose them in the same order and only after that drink. In other words, after each senior tested, a peculiar "relay" of the transfer of this toast passes through the entire table. At the same time, only three, or less than five people hold wine glasses in the hands. You drink only on commemoration. That is, after one drank out for what was said, the queue passes to the next behind him, and the fourth severly sitting on a glass in his hands to supplement the next trip.

When choking with glasses, the level of the younger glass should be slightly lower than the level of the older glass.

Only after the first gland you can start a meal. Before that, it is impossible to drink nor. Before the elder hesitates the prayer to God and will not sanctify three pie, even a child is not tricked to food on the table.

Always when the eldest pronounces a toast to suspend reception, interrupt the conversation and listen to the elder carefully. In general, at all times of Ossetians belonged to food very kept, "ascetic". In the go there was a saying: "Go to the feast, come back hungry." It emphasizes the fact that the gluttony was in a big shame, and even if it was very hungry (and who was full in the old days?) For a public feast, it was customary to take food restrained, slowly, without showing his appetite. The same thing is visiting.

In Ossetia, they say that nothing cannot be "thrown out" from the elder toast, but you can add to it (only be sure to "in the topic"). Another toast comes to the last sitting at the table, he gets up and loudly appeals to the senior: "Dear elders! Your toast has come to us. " This makes it possible to know the older when it can go to the next one.

The second toast for the Ossetian festive table is always pronounced for the patron of men, travelers and Wastardji warriors. With the arrival of Christianity in the Ossetia, this image often began to personify the image of St. George. Wastardji is the most revered among the Ossetians holy. The toast is usually pronounced and drinking. Wastardji is asked for real men in Ossetia, in order for their long-way, luck and loyal friends in the long road so that Native Ossetia lived in the world and well-being, held by adversity, and that our youth have power, courage and courage to protect the native Earth. This and all subsequent toasts pronounced by the elders pass through the entire table "relay" as well as the first.

The third toast "Chistar" says for the reason that the feast was gathered (for the favor of the saint, in honor of which the holiday, for the happy marriage of young, for a safe return from the army, for the newborn, for the anniversary, etc.). This toast is also pronounced (from respect to the family, to the eldest of this kind and significance of the event itself). During any celebrations, if the toast is pronounced standing and drinking only standing. On the commemoration, on the contrary - even if the person spoke standing, he should have a drink.

After the third toast, the eldest, for considerations of people's democracy and respect for those present, can provide the word to the second senior. At this place, a representative of the receiving kind-surname ("Fysim") is usually sits, so it's most often with his toast, he utters a celebration to all guests to all guests, thanks them for his honor to his presence to this house and the whole robe. At the same time, on behalf of the owner of the house or senior his last name, he can present the honorable glasses to all those present at the table. This glass in Ossetia is a sign of special respect and appreciation. Refuse him, it means to offend the present. To say that you are already fed and you don't want to drink more - a sign of bad tone. At the same time, this does not mean that it is necessary to empty the faceted glass of vodka, as was done by the famous hero M.Solokhov. First, the good owners do not strive to master guests before the loss of consciousness, and to some extent they go to meet them, giving relaxation. Secondly, when removing the honorary glasses, the main thing is not in the amount of degrees and the volume of the drinking beverage, but in the content of this beautiful tradition, in the words of respect and gratitude expressed. And the one who does not understand this, roughly violates Agadau - an uncommitted set of the rules of Ossetian life. You can enjoy drinking drink, or ask to pour less. If a person cannot drink for some weighty reasons or does not drink at all, you can simply sprawl from the glass, apologize and say that non-drinking or, let's say, behind the wheel (if so really).

All those who were presented by glasses, starting by who sits above on the table, pronounce the words of gratitude for the honored person, wish the owners of happiness, good luck and prosperity, as well as the possibilities more often to present such glasses on their celebrations (implying a wish to have as-possible reasons for celebrations). Drink glasses in the same order, as at the tops - "relay" three from the start of the table, before its end.

Treaty wine glasses (the second senior), standing awaits until he will drink the youngest guest. And only after that, he briefly repeats his toast and transmits the word to the senior, because to drink earlier the toast earlier for the toast itself is not entitled. The eldest gets up and thanks him for a good, beautiful toast. He also thanks guests of the holiday, and with the missing wishes they drink. Next, the toast moves down the feast as usual, with the only difference that guests are driving for the health of the owners and all those present.

Previously, when men and women did not sit at one table, there was only one standard of maintaining the table. But over time, youth feasts have developed their own, more democratic and free standard. It is usually divided into two components: compulsory and arbitrary. The obligatory includes the first 3-5 toasts and 2-3 ways that ending the feast. Between them, young people usually pronounce improvised toasts, depending on the eloquence and opinions of those who are sitting at the head of the table.

In the middle of the elder and middle-generation people, the feast passes almost as well as a hundred years ago. After the first 3-4 toast, the elder usually sequences the prayer:

- "Caught Hitsai" (the patron of the house) to protect the house of the owners and the house of all those present from adversity.

- "The Choir of Wacill", "Falwar Falls" (the patron saint of the Harvest of Wacill and Patron Palvar Pets)

"Mada Mayram" (more often than a female table) so that women are healthy, happy and raised their children the same.

In different gorges of Ossetia, Wastardji, Tutyr, Dzuar Rivers, Wastardji Rivers, Tarandgel, Sarah Dzuar, Alarda, Dzivgiya Dzuar, MisaBabyrt, and many other saints who worship Ossetians and many other saints that are worshiped are not forced. In the old days, the holidays lasted for a long time, often for several days, and a lot of toast uttered at the table. But at the same time, the feast was never turned into a ugly drunk, since a dowel drunk could cover himself with an immentable shame on the exclusion of the gorge. And the shame was considered by Ossetians, as something worse than death.

The head of the feast can pronounce a toast for the elders, wishing the health and many years of life to those who live, and the eternal memory of those who are no longer. For the Ossetian feast, toasts are also often pronounced: for the health and well-being of all those present, for the health and longevity of all neighbors and fellow villagers (since without their support and mutual assistance, Ossetian life is difficult to imagine), for the prosperity of the members of the host name, for the world around the world, for unity , welfare and prosperity of Ossetia, for the inviolability and preservation of the traditions of ancestors (Agadau). Depending on the occasion of the feast, the eldest may remove all those who gave life to protecting their homeland from the enemies, the children of those killed during the village of Sindjicaue, the victims of the 2004 tragedy in Beslan, as well as those who died under the glacier in Karmadon. In the villages of the Digorsky district, a toast is often pronounced in memory of Nana - Savior of Children during the invasion of Timur (see Article in the section "Alarm Persian Fattle")

But all this happens in the "arbitrary program" feast and at the discretion of the elder.

In a word, toasts for the Ossetian table can be quite a lot, and depending on the area of \u200b\u200bOssetia, where it passes the feast, the set of them can also change slightly. However, several more mandatory elements that cannot be missed by this program should be embryed.

Somewhere in the middle of the feast senior from guests (especially if it happens at the wedding, issuing the bride or family celebrations) requests the head of the table to allow guests to thank women who are preparing food in the kitchen (Afxinta), largely due to whom, this feast took place. After receiving such permission, guests are equipped with three people with three filled glasses on a plate and snack (usually a piece of boiled meat). In those cases. When this custom was not executed during the feast, it is performed after all will fall out due to the table.

Having come to the kitchen, where "AFXYNTA" (usually a few neighbors) bake pies prepare other dishes for a feast, one of the authorized on behalf of his elders and other guests pronounces cooked in their honor, thanks for the delicious food and wishes them to always show their culinary Art only on holidays and weddings.

After that, three young people present their gratitude glasses by three senior women. In response to this, those also thank the guests for the honor rendered, they wish them to continue to adhere to the standards of high morality and honor (Agadau), observing the beautiful traditions of their people. Women usually rarely drink the presented glasses. It is precisely returning to guests with words: "Nuazen Stulaurem y" (honorable and respect must be mutual). If guests brought glasses with Ossetian beer or light wine, women can and drink. There is nothing toxic about it. In this case, they should be filled with glasses to return them to return. But most often women, thanking guests, return wine glasses.

Having received their glasses back, young people in one (on seniority) again briefly thank the "Afxinta" and drink. In empty glasses, they usually put money bills (sufficiently much dignity) and convey to those who pretext for themselves to buy some sweets from their behalf.

Returning to the place of the feast with empty glasses, the authorized informs the elders about the fulfillment of the mission, the words of gratitude expressed by AFSINTA and receive permission to take their places at the table.

During their absence, the feast goes to his woman. Tostes are pronounced, songs, jokes, are told different stories. At a certain point, the eldest asks for a sitting nearby cut off the right ear from the head of the sacrificial animal (for this, the neck is put on the left side of the head, so as not to close the right). He cuts it off at the base, then slightly cuts off twice so that the ear to these cuts is divided into three parts, while remaining solid.

The eldest takes this ear into his left hand, a glass - right and standing, turns to the younger at the table with a kindle word (this can be pronounced as a toast for the younger generation). Then he presents a glass of them and transmits an abrupt ear.

The symbolism of this glade dates back to ancient times and implies the transfer of life experience and wisdom from the elders to the younger, the need to listen to the opinions of the elders. In Ossetia, young often wish "mistaken in life, only following the senior advice," implying that in this case there will be a minimum. Behind the remembrance table is missing. Therefore, the cervical carcass is put on the right side of the head, symbolically, as if closing the right ear.

So, someone from the younger takes the transferred glass, divides the ear on three parts. Usually, two more younger and threes are joined to him, after ordinary words of gratitude and confessions, drink glasses, biting a part of the ear. Then they fill the glass, and return it back. Senior, often standing, pronounces toast for the younger generation. He asks God and Wastardji to protect the young from adversity and misfortunes, bad friends, unsuccessful roads and betrayal. He wishes to be a strong spirit and strong body, be brave and courageous, and also proudly and with honor to bear the name of Ossetian, wherever they are. At the same time, young people often resemble that for their ancestors, even death was preferable to shame.

After the elder drinks his glass, all other participants in the feast, starting with the second older, as usual - the "relay" of three people are joined to toast. And, if the eldest (s) drank (-li) standing, from respect and the rest should stand, join toast and drink standing.

Often, closer towards the end of the feast, the younger asks the words from the elders and receiving permission, they also present three thanks to them. For this, three young should approach the elders with three filled glasses on a plate and symbolic snack (usually boiled meat). One of them, on behalf of all the younger sitting at the table, pronounces words of gratitude for care and attention to the young, wishes eldest many years to be able to sit at the head of the table and transfer their wisdom to younger. Having received glasses, the elders thank the present and compliance with traditions, pronounce ordinary in this case, wishes and drink. The presented glass give them a snack with a brought plate. After the three senior drank, the glasses are filled again and returned to young people who have thought them. They briefly thank the oldest and drink too. After that, they can return to their places.

Time comes rounding feast. For this, the head of the table, consulting with the second and third senlets, the toast toast for the hijackers of the bread-salt, for Barcad (abundance) in this house and houses of all those present. He wants everyone to have everything in prosperity, for family members, for guests and even for enemies.

After this toast passed throughout the feast to the end of the table, the senior pronounces the toast for Kaasar Wastardji. (Keeper threshold). He wishes, above all to this house, and then and with all those present, so that through their thresholds never to overcome misfortune and so that at home there are always full of guests bringing happiness and joy. This toast, as well as all the previous ones passes throughout the table. Recently, to reduce the final part of the feast, but only with the permission of the elders, the younger began to add this toast to the toast for the abundance. That is, when it comes to them to drink abundance, they combine these two toasts.

After that, the participants of the feast standing are pronounced a toast for Fandagsar Wastardji, they ask for his patronage and wish everyone from afar of a happy road, safely to get to the house and catch their family in good health. Drinking for it sits down the table is no longer accepted.

The feast is completed and everything is diverted at home, having previously thanked the hosts for the reception and wish them as much as possible celebrations and holidays in the house.

Some rules of the Ossetian feast.

Short list.

All that is considered indecent for any civilized feast, not accepted for the Ossetian table. But besides this, for Ossetian ...

The table is holy place. It is impossible to focus on him, swear, gossip. It is not customary to mention dogs, donkeys, reptiles or any other "dirty" animals. And if something has happened, it is necessary, it is necessary to apologize (fignas of Bahatyir Canad).

At the same table in Ossetia, grandfather and grandson, father and son, uncle and a nesthanic, father-in-law, and son-in-law, native brothers (if there was a significant difference in age between them). Violating this custom, younger in age or on the situation show disrespect for the elders.

If guests, the owner of the house (senior adult man) comes out of any celebrations in the house, regardless of his age and guests. If a large celebration or wedding in the house, the owner of the house does not sit at the table at all. He looks at the very celebrations taken as best as possible by passing their comments and requests to the holiday to the holiday.

I can not get drunk. You need to know your capabilities and using the traditions accepted and norms on time to stop. Those who drink allegedly to support Ossetian traditions (Agadau) and are their first violators. Nepteful in Ossetia has never been considered flawed, but droves have always been in shame.

You can not come clearly drank. Typically, the person himself in such a state does not control himself, and those who are responsible for the feast should show enough hardness to keep such apartments from the table. After all, they can spoil all the feast and mood to guests.

Smoking at the table - manifestation of disrespect for others. If you endure non-duty, you can always (after three toasts) you can consult the senior and go to smoke.

Free walking is also a manifestation of disrespect for the eldest and all sitting at the table. It is also impossible to leave the feast without notice of the elders.

If someone was late for the beginning of the feast, he, regardless of age, should sit down at the end of the table. If the guest arrived to the feast arrived from afar, he was summed up to the elders to say hello and wish everyone to meet at such celebrations. Senior pretext to him "Ambalaghag" (counter) glass. Guest, after a short wishes to the participants of the feast, always meet guests bringing happiness, drinks a glass and sits down where he will be prepared.

It is not customary to come to the official Ossetian feast (shorts, sports form, and TP). It also does not like to do what is against the general norms of Ossetian behavior in society (for example, shouting on someone or insult, arguing with the elders, or sitting behind a male table, put children on his knees or nearby.)

It is impossible to pronounce your toasts or give honorable glasses without the knowledge of the elders or in the intervals between their toasts. It is impossible to drink "without a queue", in the intervals between the toasts (exception - if a person wants to drink water or juice). This breaks the foundations of century-old Ossetian traditions, giving lovers to get enough opportunity to be sent to the table. Attempts to drink more superfluous or make someone to do this should stop immediately and quite categorically.

If the elders get up to pronounce another toast, everyone else should also get up. In recent decades, the tradition of Ossetia appeared, when one of the youngest stays sit down (symbolically "worsted" table). But as is the senior, drinking his glass, sits down, the "guarding table" must immediately get up. This tradition is observed along the go of the feast. At the same time, when at the beginning, the eldest sanctifies three pie, and the feast has not started, all participants of the feast, without exception.

In the Ossetian traditions to keep a glass or transfer it to always rely on the right hand. Accordingly, they fill it from left to the right.

You cannot pronounce a toast or drink before you drank sitting at the table above. When he pronounces toast, you need to listen carefully to understand what it is about.

It is impossible to indicate or prompt the elders, express dissatisfaction with the movement of the feast. At the same time, it is impossible to indulge in gross violations of Ossetian traditions with someone else, especially when someone makes you drink too much.

The procedure for disperse the participants of the feast is also important. The head of the table should sit with the end of the table. The "primaryness" of the rest passes a zigzag across the table, ranging from the second senior to the end of the entire table. That is, the next toast, the next toast sits on the contrary, and the other next. To them, you need to contact the "transmission" of the toast. Before drinking, with them are choking in the same sequence (in contrary, nearby). Holding a glass (and climbing) at the same time should not be a clear amount. On 2 or 4-po, they drink only on commemoration.

During the pronouncement of a toast to someone from the elder, young together and loudly support the toaste with the exclamation "Amen Huytsau!" or "AMEN RAD!".

However, this can never be done on commemoration.

If sitting at the table sees that the elder expresses some thankful words in his direction, should stand up and standing to listen to the speaker. At the same time, he can modestly insert his "Styr Buznig" (thank you very much) or "Huytsau Zagube is not a gift" (God forbid us all).

On the table on the occasion of the Ossetian folk holidays (Jorguyba, Hetada Bon, the river, Wacill and others) do not put chicken, fish. Products made of them during these holidays Ossetians do not use. All meat these days should be cooked from beef or lamb.

On the table during the traditional Ossetian holidays should never be pork and produced products. As a conventional food product, it is permissible on picnics, birthdays and other similar informal events. But here, the pork products are put on the table only after the elder will arouse the prayer to God and sanctifies three pie or the first three toasts will pronounce.

A feast of good deal is always accompanied by fun, songs, jokes. Mostly in this young. But they do not apply to start, say, a song before it is done by the elders. In some cases, the elders refusing their first right, they themselves ask for young people sing something or play on some tool.

When in the courtyard or in the house noise in full swing fun, young guests sitting at the table, after 3-5 toasts can ask the senior permission, visit the "Haste" (scene of fun, dancing). And the wise senior always gives her permission to this, formally consulting with the second and third elders.

Responsibilities serving feast

(Uyrdygowuaag or Uyrdygstag)

In official Ossetian celebrations, quite a large number of people are usually involved. And without the help of a certain group of young people, from among the neighbors and relatives (necessarily - the event of this surname), it is difficult to do here. They distribute the table between themselves ("from this so far") and each serves their plot. Usually they stand along the table on the right side with the vessels of Araki in the left hand. Apparently, therefore, they are called "Uyrdiguluaag" (literally: "standing"). As a toast moves from the older down on the table, the service takes and fills the glasses of each sitting on its site in the strict sequence of toast. At the same time, 3 or 5 glasses should be filled, but no even quantity. The glass is kept and transmitted only with the right hand. From time to time, as the vessel is emptied with Araka, WyrdyGlaueeug goes to the "Kabitz" (room for storing all the products and drinks intended for the celebration), and asks "Kitzhai Kitzhau" (responsible) to fill the "decanter".

The serving feast also looks at the table everything is in sufficient. It can fill out a shortage of a particular product or dishes again through the Kitzhau Kabitsa. They bring "Lyvza" (Ossetian analogue of stew), "Fydjynta" (pies with minced meat. See "Ossetian cuisine") and "bass" (broth, usually at the request of the table sitting at the table). All this is served hot in the course of the feast.

Previously, Uyrdiguluaag was an integral attribute of any feast. Men drank mostly one drink - Arak (Ossetian moonshine, in the smell and taste close whiskey). Beer was usually put on the table. Nowadays, the tables are usually forced to be a variety of drinks and "Uyrdiguluaag" with Araka are no longer so necessary. Usually after 3-5 toasts, the elders release it, as each sitting at the table chooses a drink in the soul from the table.

But it is not accepted to pour itself. And therefore does it someone from sitting nearby, but "below." At the same time, 2-3 people from the number of young, not participating in the feast, still look after the table, partially performing the functions of the "Wyardshawaag".

I leaving your roots in the depths of the centuries, national customs and rules of the Ossetian behavior and today are largely preserved in their original form. At the base of most of them, the careful preservation of honor and dignity, reverence of older and indispensable respect for a woman. And of course, as in most Caucasian peoples, this is the honorable attention paid to each guest.

Traditional Caucasian hospitality

The guest in the traditions of the Ossetian people was considered to be God's Messenger, so in every house there was a holy honor of the most ancient customs of hospitality. Any of their violations in recent times could be covered by the indelible disgrace not only the most defeated, but also his loved ones and distant relatives.

An old ritual prescribed the following order of reception. The arrival stopped at Konovyzya, waiting until the owner of the house would come to meet. Only then did he get from the horse, Hello with the threshold encountered and submitted: to enter the house was taken with the right leg, and go to the left. Then the expensive guest was planted at the table, and the owner with relatives served him. Later, this custom was slightly modified, and the eldest in the house still sat down next to the guest, but the remaining relatives and fellow villagers continued to show their hospitality standing.

To the table necessarily served hot pies with beer or arak, a national alcoholic beverage. If the guest remained overnight, then the ram was taken to cut, regardless of the presence of fresh meat in the farm. In each family, in case of arrival, the best food was always harvested. Neither the need did not justify the violation of the customs, and even the last reserves could be used for the sake of compliance with traditions. For the sake of fairness, I must say that the visits to abuse the generosity of the owners were also not taken. It has always been believed that the noble guest eats little, even if very hungry.

Another ascending Scythian era of the custom of hospitality in Ossetians is a solemn offer of guest of honor, Nuazan. When it is transferred, it is also necessary to stick to a strict canon. However, it was considered a shame for a shame for the owners. Moderation and restraint in everything - the golden rule of the Ossetian people.

Ossetian feast. Vault of unshakable rules

Feast, as the life and traditions of Ossetians prescribe and traditions, are a ritual action, closely related to faith and reflecting the entire national life structure. At the table is made to pray to God and all heavenly patrons. At the table, as anywhere, all the laws of honoring the elders are observed. No unworthy behavior is strictly allowed. Therefore, part of the spiritual and moral heritage of the Ossetian people constitutes a set of rules that must be observed during the feast of each:

• The table is recognized as a holy place, and therefore the main law of the feast is a complete ban on both foul language and swear and to mention those considered dirty animals.
• All participants in the feast are dismissed according to a strictly defined order in accordance with the initial customs.
• Failing usually sit down at the end of the table. If the guest arrived from afar, before planning the visitor to the place intended for him, he was summed up to the senior to say hello and present to him the so-called "counter" glass.
• Not accepted to appear at the table in the inappropriate clothing.
• Not in honor and free walking: to get out of the table you need to ask permission from the elders, and that is not earlier than after three mandatory toasts.
• It is forbidden to drink in the intervals between toasts, as well as toastive, uttering toasts at your own discretion.
• If the elders get up, uttering another toast, then none of the youngest has the right to stay.
• With all the abundance of packaging toasts, extraction is forbidden: more shame for Ossetian is still looking for.
• On the feasts in honor of traditional holidays, it is forbidden to serve meals from pork, although in everyday food it is quite admissible.

At the wedding, a sad guest is inappropriate. Wedding traditions of Ossetians

In the traditions of many nations, the wedding begins with the match. This custom is supported and in Ossetian families. To the parents of the chosen are at least three weta: a relative of the groom, a respected neighbor and, if possible, a familiar family of the bride. Although the girl's house is well aware of the goals of the visit, but traditions are traditions: the eldest of the matchmaker after the second toast tells why they pressed at this hospitable shelter. Also, by custom, native girls do not have the right to give their consent at once: they thank the guests and, promising to consult with the elders, prescribe a day for the next meeting.

The next stage of pre-wedding rituals is Fidid, a peculiar marriage agreement. The groom's family leaves the briefs of the bride a certain amount of money, serving the key to the upcoming kinship of the two surnames. Then members of two families discusses all the details of the coming celebration. When all important issues are solved, a lively festive feast begins.

A few days after Fidida, the bride and friends come to the house of the bride, such a secret visit is called Susagtsyd. The last meeting of the groom and the bride takes place: now they have to dwell only in the wedding night. In this evening, the groom gave all the women present by candy and presents the lover wedding ring.

And now the first day of the wedding comes. A wedding tuple comes for the bride, the relatives of the naschant will bring beer and Arak, as well as three pie. After mutual greetings and drank "counter-glazes" guests are accompanied to the house. They are waiting for a covering table, in addition to traditional dishes, the head and neck of the sacrificial animal will be replaced. While the bride is dressing and collecting on the far way, all the necessary prayers and toasts are pronounced behind the meal. Customs Ossetians also prescribe to show attention signs towards women in the house, but, of course, not accepting participation in the feast. The youngest of the arrivals belong to them kebabs from ribs and three glasses (Nuazan): for the covered table, for women guests and for the elder in the family.

After the traditional redemption, the bride will finally be taken into the house of the future spouse. The groom itself, on the contrary, goes to the native chosen. Here he will stay along with friends and Schafer until the night. In the meantime, the newlyweds are prescribed by the traditions of the rites: the removal of the Fata and the treats of the mother-in-law and other older women in the house, honey with melting oil (s). In the rest of the clock of a rapid celebration with dancing, songs, jokes of the bride stands in the corner guarded by two young relatives who arrived with her.

Previously, the bride was not allowed to bride for several days. Today, traditions softened a little, and on the second day newlyweds can be together. In addition, the second day of the wedding is peculiar "children's loins." All neighboring kids resort to get acquainted with the bride. She, in turn, gives the boys toys, and the girls woven beautiful ribbons into her hair. Then the dowry from the house of the young wife and dowry: guests are also met with all the honors and the next feast is preparing.

Why is he rich? Because no one dies with him. Ossetian funeral rites

As with other Caucasian peoples, the funeral rites of Ossetians have a public character. Death has long collected in the same house of all relatives, but notifying them about the happening of the head of sadness - the rider on the dark horse and with a wicker in his left hand. The deceased necessarily climbed into new clothes and the lamaway opened the gateway to the courtyard, which was served for the surrounding sign of the sorting event. In Starina, there was a custom, called the Ossetian road: who came with condolences went on her knees and precisely on the knees, beating the tact on the cheeks and feet, the rows moved to the dead man. All native deceased must have had to make a mourning ritual. Women, loudly crying and hurting their hair on themselves, and men, entering the room to the deceased, beat themselves with their scorch. People the same unfamiliar mourn the deceased right did not have: they could only enter the courtyard, where, after standing a minute with a head down, expressed their condolences to several words and the traditional gesture of the left hand.

The burial itself was made to perform on the second day or, in the case of large-scale commemoration, a couple of days later. The funeral of men was accompanied by ancient, borrowed from the Scythian culture with rituals - the dedication of the horse and cut off the braid. The first of them was "dedicated to the horse": after pronouncing the traditional speech, he cut off his ear tip in an animal or buried the horse sabs. The main face of the second rite became the wife of the deceased. When the tragic procession is almost approaching the grave, the widow, going under the coffin, hit his bottom three times, expressing his dedication and revealed a desire to belong to his spouse. Then she cut off the braid and bala put her on her husband's chest.

Another funeral Ossetian custom was holding on the day of the funeral of various competitions, for example, on a rifle shooting or horse racing. The prizes also became the deceased things: dagger, belt, various clothing items.

The funeral traditions and customs of Ossetians included and very expensive commemoration, Harnag on the day of the funeral and even more than ten moments per year. For numerous guests, luxurious tables were covered, cakes were baked in abundance, crucified rams and cows. Such an approach, every Ossetian considered his sacred duty, for the ancient legends directly associated the treats with the feeding of the dead. It was believed that the more commemoration, the better the deceased on that light. Therefore, if several people died in the family one after another, she could almost completely disperse.

Despite the fact that today many rituals go to the past, the Ossetian youth continues to honor their traditions. Therefore, the wedding in Ossetia remains one of the most vivid events in the life of not only young, but also their families, friends and neighbors who are equated to relatives. The Uzbek wedding is still celebrated with the same big scope. And although, of course, some Ossetian wedding traditions have undergone changes, in general, the celebration is also carried out, as many years ago. To understand all the nuances of rites is not easy, so the portal www.Site has prepared for you a detailed description of each stage of the wedding.

Pre-wedding Ossetian rites

Before the business reaches the wedding, the rites of the walling, collusion and the secret visit of the groom must pass.

Without him, the Ossetian wedding will not take place, it is a tradition. The groom is appointed in the family of the groom, which are departed into the house of the bride. Usually, someone is:

1. senior relatives in the family of the groom,
2. loved ones family friends
3. respected neighbors with which friendships are supported,
4. good friends of the family of the bride (so that it is fond of the work faster).

The delegation, as a rule, does not exceed five people. After the matchmaker is defined, they are poisoned into the house of the bride, warning about their visit in advance. Parents of young in the rite of walling do not participate. The relatives and friends of the bride cover the table for the matchmaker, but the answer to the offer after the first visit is not accepted. According to the Ossetian wedding customs, the waters on the part of the bridegroom should visit the bride's family at least three times. During such visits, the redemption for the bride (Kalym) is negotiated.

Collusion

After consent received, the groom's family sends the trusted persons with the agreed Calma amount and thus fastens the agreement. On this occasion, a large table is covered, for which they eat, drink, utter toasts and prayers for young people.

Secret visit to the groom

There is something like that in the customs of the Dagestan wedding, the so-called secret wedding, which is essentially a visit to the groom and is. For one or two weeks before the wedding, the groom comes to the bride along with her friends (no more than 7 people), among which the eldest and younger chaffers are already appointed. They are the main operating persons at the wedding, part-time being Tamada. Senior Scam must be married - this is a strict condition, which is compliance with the Ossetian traditions at the wedding. Mom and grandmother (senior women of the genus) are present from the bride (senior women) from the father, relatives and neighboring youth.

After the first three toasts were told, in which prayers usually sound, the groom with the diamonds goes to the older women. Mom of the bride gives them glasses with alcohol, usually it is beer. Guests drink and return empty glasses, putting money there. Also, the groom is obliged to prevent mother-in-law sweets, the so-called "candies from the son-in-law". After that, you can give the bride wedding ring and wedding outfit. By the way, as in the Turkish wedding, the groom also chooses a dress for the future wife.

Wedding in Ossetia

It must be said that the Ossetian wedding is very beautiful and spectacular, as well as crowded and hospitable. In special cases, the number of guests can reach up to 2 thousand, but its main feature is that the celebration takes place in two houses. Early in the morning, the delegation from the bridegroom consisting of no more than 50 people goes for the bride, with cakes, beer cylinders and Araki (Ossetian alcoholic drink), cakes and sweets.

In the bride, the delegation meets the elders with glasses that drink three seniors from the groom and present their glasses in response. Then everyone sit at the table, pronounce the laid prayers, treat, after that youth goes to dance. The bride all this time stands in a prominent place and does not take part in the holiday. After part with fenders and dancing completed, it goes to change clothes. It does not do without redeeve the bride who spends the Senior Shafer. After that, it is removed from the house two shower, the eldest - right, the youngest - left. Senior bless the bride and pray for her.

When the motorcade comes to the house of the groom, the bride gets a blessing from the older on the part of the groom. She is given on the hands of a baby boy, so that the firstborn the newlyweds were a son.

The following important stages on the Ossetian wedding according to the Russian traditions and customs is the removal of Fata and a ritual with a bowl of honey and a baked oil. The young man from the bridegroom brings with him the ritual flag that need to spend three times over the head of the bride. Then he wishes her happiness, abundance, seven sons and daughter with blue eyes and raises a veil so that everyone can see the face of the girl. The checkbox is stored in the family of newlyweds all his life. After that, the bride prevents honey with oil adult women, the last mother-in-law, so that there is mutual understanding.

With the onset of the darkness of the bridegroom goes to the house of the bride, where the mother-in-law is preparing to him scrambled eggs, the feast continues. By the way, the bride and groom are not near with each other during the wedding and do not speak. Standing separately and congratulations are also taken alone. Only after the feast of the test and mother-in-law, drinking traditional glasses all ceremonies are considered to be respected.

Quote communication national feast

Niko Pirosmani. Feast.
Behind the Ossetian table not only ate, drank and communicated. The traditional feast is closely related to their faith, weight lifestyle and social behavior standards. For someone who had not come across the Ossetian packaging etiquette, the presence of many unsupported rules and restrictions, which in Ossetia still adhere to the official table, may seem strange and unnecessarily strict. But for Ossetian these norms are part of his being and worldview, spiritual and moral heritage.
It was at the table that Ossetian was raised by the prayers to God and the Holy patrons. The scene of the feast ("fignas", literally - "table") - holy, soils are not allowed or unworthy behavior.

How does the Ossetian feast begins? First cover the table. The first thing to put salt on it. If some animal was clogged for a feast, on the table, near the place of the elder, they put a dish with a carefully cleaned and welded head (without lower jaws and the language) and the cervical of the animal. Usually, the neck of the animal should be located on the side to the left of the head, on the commemoration - to the right.

By tradition, then on the table, ranging from the place of the elder, they put three traditional pie and drinks. Three pie and their mandatory presence at national celebrations are a reminder of the vertical of the Mirozdanya, which was in the heritage of Ossetians from Indoary Culture. God (Huytsau), Sun (Hur) and Earth (Zhh).

Then put plates with boiled meat. From above, three cake near the elders put the right-hand shoulder part of the sacrificial animal, roasted on fire three right ribs solid piece and semumbura with a kebab from the liver, lungs and the heart of animal wrapped in a fatty film. In many areas of Ossetia, the right blade is also put on the head of the sacrificial animal.
When the table is covered, this is notified by the main manager or with small feasts - the owner of the house. In turn, invite guests at the table, starting with a pre-designated senior table, which in Ossetia is called Histar. And this is not necessarily the oldest years. The main thing is that, being one of the older present, he was also wise, restrained, eloquent and respected in society a man. In addition, Histar should also be pretty "hardy" against alcohol.


If the table is covered to the arrival of guests, the owner of the house or his closest relative sits on the site of the senior. At weddings, big holidays, the main manager or the owner of the house appoints a senior feast in advance. This duty is very honorable and responsible, because it is precisely from it that depends on the table, respect for the Ossetian norms and traditions, fun and ultimately - the mood of the guests. The scene of the eldest - from the end of the table to the east. On the left and on the right of it the two of his "colleagues" and assistant. Following them - all the others on the "approximate" seniority.

Previously (and today at official celebrations, weddings, religious holidays), women for the male table did not sit down. They were usually covered with a separate table with their orders and etiquette. Nowadays, youth feasts are usually mixed, although there are still men on the place of the elders.

After everyone is rushed, one of the pouring shifts three pie in such a way that it seems that they are three. At the same time, the upper pie is shifted to the left of the elder. Then one of the servants of young people fills the glasses of three seniors. And today in Ossetia and today, for the ascension of the first prayer to God and the consecration of three ritual pies, the eldest is often poured by Ossetian beer in a special carved wooden vessel.

The eldest gets up with a beer in his right hand and a shoulder part of the crown animal ("Basig") in the left. Following him all. In the right hand at the second older glass, in the left - three ribs. The third senior in his right hand is a glass, in the left - Schemeter with a kebab. The feast begins.
Histar loudly assisted the prayer to God and all the saints and sanctifies three pie. Each phrase said by the elders is accompanied by a common friendly exclamation: "Amen Huytsau! (Amen) "as long as he finishes prayer. After someone from the younger must symbolically bite off from the edge of the upper pie and take from the hands of a senior bowl with beer and a bazyg. In the transmission of the shoulder joint, the younger is a special meaning, because the Basig symbolizes the power and power.
There is a turn of the second senior to rendise prayer. His prayer, as well as any subsequent toast of the elders, is accompanied by a friend of Amen Huytsau! " Sitting at the table. After completion, a glass and three ribs are also transmitted to someone from the younger. The third eldest also utters a prayer and transmits his glass and chascur with a kebab to another younger. Similarly, prayers are attributed and the beer and the meat of other elders are transmitted. The widths of the elders briefly thank to the glory of God and the birthday of beer. After that, the glasses are re-filled and transmitted back elders.

Younger separate the bazygg knife, cleaning the bone from meat. If a ram was scored, usually the bone goes among young people until someone breaks her hands without the help of foreign objects. In those rare cases when it fails to anyone, the young becomes the subject of jokes from those present. A broken Bazyg of old people make an honorable glass, with wishes to add strength to their strength and always be with the first in all for the benefit of their family and all Ossetia.
But all this happens much later, after the Histar utters the first few toast. These toasts occupy an important place in the Ossetian feast, it is impossible to make mistakes in them. True, in every gorge there is its own, especially revered by holy, which is why the second or third toast is devoted to their holy. Usually the order is:
After the top-prayer to the Almighty, Histar addresses Wastardji or St. George with the following request: "Usoustri, making a foal horse, a boy - a man, accompanying travelers! Our travelers are your guests, our homework guests; Yes, our business will be successful - give us such happiness! ", And then to Tbau Wacill:" Tbau Wacillo, who gives happiness, saving from trouble, destroy our misfortunes, strengthen our luck! Let there be happiness in every home in every family! ". Next, one who is dedicated to the feast, the owner of the place and Alardi (patron of children). Special love enjoys the next toast: "Hetaji Wastardji and Farn Universe, give such happiness so that the world won the world so that youth never need to fight, let it be occupied only by hard!". After a glass raise the plain and mountain angels and spirits, patrons of livestock and agriculture, for happiness and abundance in the house of the owner and its guests. Toast on the threshold - final.

After the consecration of three pies, someone from the younger feeding shifts pies to the center and cuts them with a knife in diameter to eight parts. At the same time, the dish with cakes do not rotate!
So, the glasses are filled again, the Histar proclaims the toast for a single God, lifting with its neighbors on the table and drinks. In Ossetia, they say that nothing cannot be "thrown out" from the elder toast, but you can add to it (only be sure to "in the topic"). Another toast comes to the last sitting at the table, he gets up with the words: "Dear elders! Your toast has reached us. " So Histar understands that you can go to the next toast.

The second toast for the Ossetian festive table is always pronounced for the patron of men, travelers and Wastardji warriors. With the arrival of Christianity in the Ossetia, this image merged with the image of St. George. Wastardi Ossetian worship more than other saints. The toast is usually pronounced and drinking. Wastardji is asked that in Ossetia real men will never translate real men in order for their luck and loyal friends in the long road so that Native Ossetia lived in the world and well-being, carrying out adversities so that young people have strength, courage and courage to protect their native land. All toasts, like the first, pass through the entire table "relay".

The third toast is usually "thematic." He is devoted to the saint, in honor of which the holiday, drink for the happy marriage of the young, for a prosperous return from the army, for the newborn, for the anniversary, etc. This toast is also pronounced (out of respect for the eldest of this kind and significance of the event itself). Remember: If the toast on the celebrations are proclaimed standing, then only standing to drink. On the commemoration, on the contrary - even if the person spoke standing, he should have a drink.

After the third Town of Chistar out of respect for those present, can provide the word to the second senior. Usually this duty is performed by a representative of the receiving kind-surname ("Fysim"), therefore, most often he utters a toast to all guests, thanks them for his honor to his presence to this house and the whole race. At the same time, on behalf of the owner of the house, he can bring guest glasses to all those present at the table. This glass in Ossetia is a sign of special respect and appreciation. Refuse him - offend! To say that you are already fed and no longer want to drink, - a sign of bad tone. All those who brought glasses, thank to honor and wish the owners of happiness, good luck and prosperity, as well as opportunities more often brought such glasses on their celebrations (that is, have more reasons to rejoice). The first number is a guistar glass.

Previously, when men and women did not sit at one table, there was only one standard of maintaining the table.
Youth feast over time developed their, more democratic and free standard. The solemn feast of "mature husbands" and the old people goes almost the same as hundreds of years ago. In the old days, the holidays lasted often for several days, there were a lot toast. But at the same time, the feast was never turned into a ugly drunk, since the dowdan could turn himself to cover himself with a disgrace for all the gorge. And shame - worse death.
The head of the feast can pronounce a toast for the elders, wishing the health and many years of life to those who live, and the eternal memory of those who are no longer. It is also taken to drink for the health and well-being of all the neighbors present, for the health and longevity of all neighbors and fellow villagers (since, without their support and mutual assistance, life in the Caucasus is difficult to imagine), for the prosperity of the owner's family, for peace all over the world, for the unity, well-being and prosperity of Ossetia , for the inviolability of the traditions of the ancestors.

Who are Assinta?
Somewhere in the middle of the celebration, the eldest of guests asks Hilaard to allow guests to thank women who are preparing food in the kitchen, because thanks to them, guests enjoy the meal. These women (usually the hostess helps several neighbors) call the Afsint. Typically, guests are equipped with three people with three filled glasses on a plate and snack - boiled meat. In the kitchen, where Afxinta bake pies and prepare treats for a feast, one of the guests pronounces toast in their honor, thanks for her delicious food and wishes them to always show their culinary art only on holidays and weddings.

After that, three young people present their thanksgiving glasses to three older women. In response to this, those also thank the guests for the honorable honor, they wish them to continue to adhere to the standards of high morality and honor, observing the beautiful traditions of their people. Women rarely drink pretended glasses. More often - return them to guests with the words: "Honor and respect must be mutual." If this custom has not been executed during the pyr, the owners thank after all will fall out due to the table.

Meanwhile, the feast goes to his woman. Testes, songs, jokes, stories are sounding. Especially diligent young. But they do not apply to start, say, a song before it is done by the elders. Frequently, the old men themselves ask for young people sing something or play on some tool. When in the courtyard or in the house noise in full swing fun, young guests sitting at the table, after three or five toasts can ask for permission from Hisstar to go dance.

At a certain point, Histar asks for a sitting nearby cut off the right ear from the head of the sacrificial sheep. He cuts it from the base, then slightly cares, so that the ear can be divided into three parts, while remaining the whole. The Histar takes his ear into his left hand, a glass - right and appeals to young people with a kind of accomplishment (usually this toast for the younger generation). Then he presents a glass of them and transmits an outcred ear. The symbolism of this custom dates back to antiquity and implies the transfer of life experience and wisdom from the elders to the younger. In Ossetia, young often wish "mistaken in life, only following the senior advice," implying that in this case there will be a minimum. Behind the memorial table ear do not pass.
So, someone from the younger gets a glass and divides the outcropped ear into three parts - for their young stems. Threesome they, after the words of gratitude, drink glasses, biting a piece of ear. Histar asks God and Wastardji to protect young from adversity and misfortunes, bad friends, dangerous roads and betrayal. He wishes to be a strong spirit and strong body, be brave and courageous, and also proudly and with honor to bear the name of Ossetian, wherever they are. At the same time, young people often resemble that for their ancestors, even death was preferable to shame.


Closer towards the end of the feast of the younger asks the words from the elders and also present them three thankful glacifies. When the time is coming to end the meal, the head of the table, consulting with the "colleagues," raises the glass for the saints, giving grace, bread-salt, for the abundance of this house and houses of all those present. He wants everyone to have everything in prosperity, for family members, for guests and even for enemies. When this toast comes to the end of the table, the eldest pronounces the toast for the keeper of the threshold. He wishes, above all to this house, and then and with all those present, so that through their thresholds never to overcome misfortune and so that at home there are always full of guests bringing happiness and joy. After that, the participants of the feast standing asking the patronage of Wastardji, and wish you all who came from afar of a happy road, to safely reach the house and catch the family in good health. Drinking for it, it's no longer taken at the table - it remains to disperse, thanking the owners and wish them as many holidays as possible in the house.

Another important point. During the official celebrations in the Ossetian table there will be no pork and produced products from it. But on picnics, birthdays, the usual table is permissible. But here the pork put on the table only after the first three toasts.

To poke hands in the dough - a female business. Ossetian cuisine.
Traditional Ossetian cuisine has developed under the influence of the nomadic lifestyle Alan - Ossetian ancestors. The ritual of cooking and food intake itself is a peculiar form of people and gods.
The pride of Ossetian cuisine is boiled in the marvelous cauldron meat, which is seasoned with sharp sauce of garlic or abraise on sour cream or broth. Meat (lamb, beef and poultry) more often cooked whole carcass or large slices. Very popular lamb kebab, which is cooked without prior marinization of meat. The table is definitely decorated with bread products, whether corn chocks or pies. The old Ossetian cuisine did not differ in diversity. Refueling first and second dishes vegetables, tomatoes, tomato paste, fried onions and other seasonings - the innovation of the last century. Ossetian cuisine does not develop isolated. It is inextricably linked with the cooking of other Caucasian peoples, while maintaining its own characteristics.

Pies
Wheat flour pies with different fillings are the most famous and favorite dish of Ossetian cuisine. Wheat was read, calling her "Manau" (literally "My Zlak"). Traditional pies with a variety of filling bake in these edges of thousands of years. They are eaten on weekdays, on holidays, weddings, commemoration.

Usually the shape of pies is a round (circle - the symbol of the earth, infinity), about 30-35 cm in diameter. On religious holidays in some cases, triangular pies with cheese filling are baked, which should symbolize the fruitless land and wealth. Those or other types of baking can tell a lot about the reason for the feast. For example, cake with chopped meat is served at solemn cases, and cheese pies prepare both on weekdays and holidays.

Far outside Ossetia knows Ossetian cheese and Ossetian beer. Many foreign travelers celebrated the high taste of Ossetian beer. According to legend, the beer was invented by Shatan, the main heroine of Narovsky epic. Other Favorite National Drinks - Crown Rong, Arak (Moonshine), Braga, Kvass.

For the preparation of present ossetian cheese It is necessary to purchase a dried beef stomach (or dry it yourself, pre-carefully captivated). Then omit it into fresh serum, cool to salt and leave in glass dishes for three days. When serum wanders, cast a glass and combine it with ten liters of a little warm milk. After about half an hour, the cheese breaks. The resulting mass is pretty stirred by hands and leave again for half an hour until the mass falls on the bottom. Then right in the serum, without removing the mass, slowly, not in a hurry, squeeze the cheese, giving it the desired shape. Carefully lay out in a colander, give a track. Cheese can be consumed in a fresh form, but can be salted and stored in the refrigerator.

Try cooking dzykka. It is boiled from sour cream, wheat or corn flour with the addition of cheese. Dzykka is usually prepared in the cast-iron, since in a saucepan it can burn. The once dzykka was ritual food used in fertility rites. She was brought to the good and peaceful deity of Falvara. Two portions you will need 150 g of flour, 100 g of sour cream or serum, 300 g of fresh brine cheese, salt to taste. In boiling sour cream or serum put freshly broken cheese. When it turns into a cleaner, stirring continuously, bring it to a boil. Gently pour flour. Cook, stirring, by appearance on the surface of oily spots and obtain cream color. The finished dish has a viscous, elastic, homogeneous consistency. Tasty hot and cold.

Bake the pie is not so difficult, but without certain skill and experience can not do. In Ossetia, only women were always engaged in this. "To poke hands in the dough" for men was considered great humiliation. Pies with a thin layer of dough and juicy, abundant, but not repealing outward filling are considered good, delicious. Thick, "fleshy" pies - a sign of the inexperience of the hostess.

One of the recipes of the Ossetian cake
To prepare a test for six pies, you will need 2 kg of flour, 2 eggs, a liter of milk, a teaspoon of sugar, 100 g of butter, 50 g of yeast; Salt to taste. Add eggs and warm oil, yeast (divorced in a small amount of milk), salt and sugar. Pour warm milk and knead the dough. Lubricate com dough from above with vegetable oil and put in a warm place for an hour and a half. It came up to divide the dough for six servings and lay them on the table, poured with flour. Roll out the dough, to put about 400 g of the filling. The filling can be meat (ground 1200 g of fat beef, two bulbs, garlic, flavored with salt and pepper) or cheese and beetroot topping (finely chopped bunch of young beeturous leaves, two bulbs, sheltered grind fresh cheese).
Test from the edges to clamp the filling so that it is inside the cake. Distribute stuffing inside the test by progressive movements from the center to the edge. In the center of the cake to make a hole. To transfer the cake to the pan (it is not necessary to lubricate it) and put the oven in the oven preheated to 200-220 degrees. When the cake is twisted, get it, shifting on a plate and lubricate with butter. And let the well-being do not leave your home!