Hospitality in Kyrgyz Turks and Related Beliefs

Abstract

Hospitality is an important part of Turkic tradition. Turks have demonstrated great examples of hospitality
throughout history. Our ancestors created roadside caravan tents to accommodate travelers because they
attached great importance to guests. The article aims at studying and revealing the hospitality, table
manners and related customs, traditions and beliefs of the Kyrgyz, who have maintained the most beautiful
examples of hospitality in the Turkic culture from the past to the present. This will provide an opportunity
to better understand and appreciate the Kyrgyz Turks. One of the customs and traditions of the Kyrgyz
Turks for centuries has been hospitality, which is their most beautiful feature. As it was in the past when
they were living a nomadic life, today their doors are still always open to guests. They are happy to host
guests at home almost every day and treat them with great respect. It is possible to find the best examples
of hospitality and related folk beliefs in the Kyrgyz culture. This article discusses Kyrgyz traditions and
beliefs related to hospitality, and interprets them phenomenologically, occasionally making comparisons
with practices in Anatolia. In addition to written literature, field research data was also used in addressing
the topic.