Akpatyr Although the Mari faith is often simplified as purely nature worship, it is also based on legendary ancestor-heroes and can be considered a type of ancestor worship. One of these legendary heroes, Akpatyr, has great significance to both the Maris and the Tatars. Akpatyr was born in the 16th century in Ketek-Muchash in the Malmyzh region in present-day Kirov province (historically an important contact zone between Maris, Tatars and Udmurts). Orphaned at a young age, Akpatyr was adopted by a wealthy Tatar family that included two sons. Akpatyr was clever and courageous and often came to the aid of the Tatars in unexpected situations. He was also famed as a healer and a wise teacher. He respected all people and was able to settle conflicts and promote peaceful relations with neighbors. The name Akpatyr was given to him by Tatars – Ak Batyr in Tatar means “white hero” (due to his blonde hair and blue eyes). According to legend, Akpatyr is buried at the place where he fell to an arrow. At his grave, a birch tree was planted and is considered to be sacred and possess healing powers. The tomb became famous among the local inhabitants of Malmyzh region and surrounding lands, including Maris, Tatars, Udmurts and even Russians. Maris came to his grave to pray for help and to heal sick family members and livestock, often bringing gifts of money and sacrificial animals such as geese and sheep. In 1998 Maris erected a monument at his grave with the inscription “Марийлан вий-куатым пуэн шого!” (“Grant Maris strength and power!”). Since then every August a holiday has been held in his honor. This event has united people of different nationalities from the Malmyzh region and from neighboring republics. One of the distinctive features of the diverse Malmyzh region is that it is common still today for locals to celebrate local holidays together regardless of nationality. Although the 2009 Encyclopedia of the Republic of Mari El makes no mention of Akaptyr’s connection to the Tatars, Akpatyr ought to be regarded as a true hero of the entire Middle Volga region, personifying the ancient Middle Volga values of tolerance, friendship and neighborliness.
Posted on: Sat, 08 Nov 2014 02:25:33 +0000
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