Tasattyk rite as a linguocognitive phenomenon

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the Kazakh rite “tasattyk” as a unique linguocognitive phenomenon located at the intersection of language and religion—key components of national culture. The rite, based on a sacrifice ritual to call for rain, demonstrates the syncretism of linguistic, symbolic, and religious elements reflecting the worldview, mentality, and spiritual values of the Kazakh people. The purpose of the study is to reveal how cultural meanings and symbols that form national identity and ensure the continuity of generations are transmitted through ritual practices. The objectives of the work include analyzing the semantic and symbolic components of the ritual, describing the linguistic means used in the ritual, and identifying linguocultures that act as macro signs of national consciousness. The methodological framework includes conceptual and frame analysis, as well as an associative experiment aimed at identifying personal and collective images associated with the ritual. The obtained data indicate that “tasattyk” is perceived as a significant element of cultural memory, symbolizing the harmony between man and nature, the sacral unity of the community, and spiritual connection with ancestors. The scientific novelty of the work lies in its attempt to systematically describe the ritual “tasattyk” as a linguistic and cognitive marker that ensures the transmission of religious, ethical, and worldview meanings through linguistic and ritual codes. It is shown that special ritual vocabulary and phraseology act as carriers of sacred knowledge and cultural values, playing an important role in the formation of collective identity and the strengthening of spiritual tradition. In addition, the ritual performs an educational function: involving young people in ritual practice promotes the assimilation of cultural
norms and religious ideas through live interaction, thus ensuring the preservation of the nation’s cultural code. The results of the study confirm that the ritual “tasattyk” functions as a complex linguocognitive phe nomenon, organically combining linguistic, symbolic, and non-verbal elements. Frame analysis revealed a stable structure of the ritual, reflecting basic values and worldview. Analysis of non-verbal components demonstrated their key role in the emotional and symbolic saturation of the ritual. The associative experiment showed that “tasattyk” is associated with ideas of faith, nature, and ancestral memory, fulfilling not only a sa
cral but also a socio-cultural function. Taken together, the results confirm that rituals are effective channels for transmitting cultural meanings and identity. Thus, the study of the ritual “tasattyk” demonstrates the significance of ritual forms as mechanisms for translating and preserving cultural identity amid socio-cultural transformation.