The Role of Uncles (Mother’s Brother) and Nephews In Turkish Culture

The Role of Uncles (Mother’s Brother)

Abstract

Family relations and lines of descent determine the daily and social life in societies. Sociologists define these relations with some concepts such as matriarchal, patriarchal, bilateral descent or kinship on both sides. Patriarchal kinship can be seen in most Turkish communities. However, especially in Turkic tribes in Siberia—considering the belief in Tengrism—it is possible to see matriarchal kinship as well. Ak Ene’s inspiration to Sky-father during the creation process of the world, Umay’s popularity among Turkic tribes both in Siberia and other regions, legends whose protagonists are Ay-Huucın, Altın-Arığ, Huban-Arığ, the will to get married with the daughter of the uncle are signs of matriarchal kinship of Turkic tribes in Siberia. In Turkish people who give special importance to family and kinship, there are a lot of terms related to kinship/relationship as a result of blood tie or marriage. For that reason, names of kinship in Turkish language are very rich and various. A rich cultural material appeared around the names of kinship as in every issue related to the society. These products have existed for thousands of years, sometimes they have changed and transformed. One of the names of kinship called ‘uncle’ which means mother’s brother or male relatives of mother’s side. Besides, this word has metaphorical usages as well as sub-meanings and connotations. In this article, the words used around the concept of uncle (mother’s brother) whose traces can be traced from ancient Turkish to the present, the matriarchal family structure from past to present and the place and role of the uncle on his nephews, the relationship between the cultural elements formed around the uncle and the mythological periods of the Turks and their matriarchal structure discussed.