Witchcraft (Sikhr) among the Tatars of Astrakhan Region

DOI: 10.33876/2311-0546/2020-51-3/206-212

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of traditions of witchcraft (sihr) among the Tatars of the Astrakhan region. Based on ethnographic materials, it was concluded that witchcraft among the Tatars is mainly associated with harmful magic and spells. The study reveals a clear connection between ideas about witchcraft and beliefs in evil spirits. It was found that the traditions of witchcraft among the Lower Volga Tatars are parallel to similar phenomena among other ethnoterritorial groups of Tatars in Russia, in particular, the Middle Volga and Siberian Tatars. The materials on the ethnography of witchcraft among the Tatars of the Astrakhan region are being published for the first time.

References

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