Eggsquisitely Mythical #5: Azerbaijan
- Dr. Fizza Younis
- Mar 24
- 16 min read
Hello, fellow eggs and mythology lovers!
For our next Eggsquisitely Mythical issue, we are doing a deep dive on the myths and legends of Azerbaijan.
BACKGROUND
The Republic of Azerbaijan is a transcontinental country at the boundary of Eastern Europe and West Asia. It is a part of the South Caucasus region. It is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia's Republic of Dagestan to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia and Turkey to the west, and Iran to the south.
Baku is its capital and the largest city. Azerbaijan became the first secular democratic Muslim-majority state in 1918 and an Azerbaijani national identity emerged. However, the country was conquered and incorporated into the Soviet Union as the Azerbaijan SSR. The modern Republic of Azerbaijan proclaimed its independence on 30 August 1991.
DEITIES
Azerbaijani mythology is rooted in the Turkic, Persian, and regional Caucasian traditions. Many of its deities and mythological figures have influences from ancient Turkic mythology, Zoroastrianism, and pre-Islamic regional beliefs. The gods often represent natural elements or moral concepts, and many stories involve their interactions with humans, heroes, and spirits. Some deities may vary in name or attribute based on the specific region or tribal influence.
Sky and Creation Deities
Gök Tengri (Sky God) is the supreme deity in Turkic mythology, associated with the sky, justice, and fate. Worship of Gök Tengri heavily influenced Azerbaijani beliefs during the ancient Turkic periods.
Umay (Goddess of Fertility and Protection) is a maternal figure who watches over children, families, and crops. She is seen as a guardian spirit of life and a protector of homes.
Kayra Khan is a primordial god associated with creation and the cosmos. Often linked to the formation of the universe and spiritual realms.
Erlik (God of the Underworld) is the ruler of the underworld and the god of death. Erlik is a complex figure, both feared and respected, representing the afterlife.
Khuda (God) is a term borrowed from Persian mythology, Khuda represents a general divine figure or a god.
Influences from Zoroastrianism
Ahura Mazda is the supreme god of Zoroastrianism, worshiped as the creator and protector of the universe. Although more prominent in Persian culture, Ahura Mazda influenced the spiritual landscape of Azerbaijan.
Anahita is the goddess of water, fertility, and healing. Her influence is notable in regions of Azerbaijan with Zoroastrian connections.
Mithra (Mihr) is the god of contracts, light, and truth, revered as a protector of warriors and a bringer of justice.
Nature Deities
Yer-Su (Earth-Water Deity) is a spirit or deity embodying the sacredness of the land and water. Yer-Su is often invoked for the prosperity of nature and agriculture.
Ot-ene or Od Ana (Fire Goddess) is a goddess associated with fire, hearth, and protection. Fire was a sacred element in Azerbaijani mythology, especially with Zoroastrian influences.
Akhyn (Wind God) is a deity controlling the winds, storms, and air. Akhyn is a symbol of change and communication between the realms.
War and Heroism Deities
Tayir (God of Warriors) is a god associated with bravery, war, and protection during battles. He was revered by ancient warriors and tribal leaders.
Alp Kara Han is a warrior deity symbolizing strength and heroism. His stories often depict him fighting against dark forces.
Note: These figures are not distinctly noted in Azerbaijani mythology but are present in broader Turkic heroic legends.
Spiritual and Elemental Gods & Goddesses
Kuyash (Sun God) is a deity of light, warmth, and life. Often linked to solar energy and the cycles of day and night.
Ay Ata (Moon Father) is a moon deity representing time, tides, and nocturnal cycles. He complements Kuyash, the Sun God.
Shams (Zoroastrian Sun Goddess) is likely influenced by Persian mythology, Shams is a deity representing the divine power of the sun.
Alaz (Fire Spirit) is a fiery spirit tied to purification and transformation, connected to sacred Zoroastrian fire rituals.
Dualistic Forces
Ahriman (Angra Mainyu) is a destructive force or spirit of chaos and evil, opposed to the creative power of Ahura Mazda. His presence symbolizes the eternal battle between light and darkness.
Zurvan (Time God) is the god of infinite time and destiny, representing the balance between creation and destruction.
MYTHICAL CREATURES
Azerbaijani mythology is rich, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of the Azerbaijani people. It encompasses various mythical creatures that hold significant places in legends, folklore, and traditional practices. It derives various elements from Persian and Turkish mythologies. These mythical beings often embody natural forces, human emotions, and cultural values.
Simurgh is a giant mythical bird, often depicted as a benevolent being. It is a symbol of wisdom, strength, and guidance. In Azerbaijani folklore, the Simurgh is said to have the ability to heal and is often associated with the nourishment of life.
Qulyabani is a giant with a long beard believed to eat people. He originates in Turkic mythology. In Turkish and therefore also Azerbaijani folklore, he is believed to have reversed feet and slept in forests or graveyards during the day and wake up during the night.
Zilant is a legendary dragon or serpent-like creature often portrayed as a guardian. It is characterized by its fierce nature and is said to inhabit mountainous or water-filled areas, sometimes serving as a protector of treasures or sacred places.
Khan Kızı is a mythical princess who embodies beauty, grace, and supernatural abilities. She often appears in tales as a heroine who fights against evil forces or aids heroes on their quests.
Divs are malevolent spirits or demons in Azerbaijani folklore. They are typically depicted as having grotesque appearances and possessing supernatural powers. Divs often act as adversaries to heroes in mythological stories.
Nohur is a spirit of the water, often personified as a beautiful maiden. In folklore, they are considered protectors of springs and rivers, and their presence is believed to bring fertility to the land.
Baba Yaga is a well-known figure in various Turkic and Slavic mythologies, Baba Yaga is often characterized as a witch or a supernatural being living in a forest. In Azerbaijani tales, she is sometimes portrayed as a wise old woman who has both benevolent and malevolent characteristics.
Gizil Gul resembles a flower and is believed to embody the spirit of femininity and beauty. The Gizil Gul is often associated with love and is said to bloom in specific seasons tied to stories of romance and longing.
Ala Bala is a creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. It represents duality and is often seen as a guardian of sacred spaces, embodying both strength and intelligence.
Umay, in Azerbaijani mythology, is the goddess of fertility and protector of mothers and children. She is often depicted as a nurturing figure who helps women during childbirth and is associated with domestic life.
Yalan is a trickster spirit known for creating illusions and manipulating reality. In many stories, the Yalan tests the cleverness of heroes and villagers, using cunning to challenge their moral choices.
Gor is a fearsome creature resembling a wild boar, often depicted as a guardian of the forests. It symbolizes strength and is respected in legends as a protector of the natural world.
Azhdaha represents a powerful dragon often seen as a significant adversary to heroes. It symbolizes chaos and destruction but can sometimes also embody wisdom and ancient knowledge.
Shahmaran is a mythical creature with the body of a snake and the head of a woman, symbolizing the complexity of human nature and the intertwined destinies of humans and the supernatural
Meshe Adam, also known as the tree man or spirit, lives in mountainous forests maintaining harmony within nature. It is often represented in the form of hairy creatures of both sexes, being an ape with a human face and a sharp odor.
LEGENDS, MYTHS, AND FOLKTALES
The Epic of Koroǧlu
Koroǧlu is one of the most celebrated figures among the rich Azerbaijani mythology and folklore. He was a folk hero whose epic tale has been told through oral traditions of Azerbaijan and neighboring Turkic regions for centuries.
The name Koroǧlu means "son of the blind" (Kor meaning blind and oǧlu meaning son). This title is tied to the hero’s origin story and signifies his lineage and journey of vengeance and justice. His real name was Rövşən in Azerbaijani. He is often depicted as a defender of the oppressed, a warrior poet, and a master of the saz, a traditional string instrument used to accompany his heroic exploits.
The Origin Story of Koroǧlu
Koroǧlu’s story begins with an act of injustice. His father, Ali Kishi, was a stableman to a cruel and powerful lord. One day, the lord demanded the finest horse from Ali Kishi’s stable. Instead of offering his best horse, Ali Kishi presented a sickly, weak foal, hoping to save the magnificent steed for his son. Enraged by the perceived insult, the lord blinded Ali Kishi as punishment. When his father died, he made Korolgu promise to avenge him, and thus a brutal act gave rise to Koroǧlu’s mission for justice.
Koroǧlu took care of the sickly foal and they both grew up together. The horse was now transformed into a mighty stallion named Kırat. Together, Koroǧlu and Kırat became a symbol of resilience and loyalty, challenging tyrants across the land.
Koroǧlu’s Heroic Journey
Koroǧlu’s adventures blend heroism, wit, and poetic charm. As a leader of a band of outlaws, he upheld a strict moral code, stealing from oppressive rich rulers to aid the poor and voiceless. His stronghold was Çenlibel, and soon, it became a sanctuary for rebels and a symbol of resistance. His followers were those who had been wronged by the injustices of the world and they lived to avenge them, fighting against the rich and influential people of the society.
Koroǧlu’s dual identity as a warrior and a bard is central to the epic. His mastery of the saz allowed him to compose and sing dastans (epic poems), which immortalized his deeds. These performances entertained and conveyed his ideals of justice, bravery, and loyalty.
Legacy of Koroǧlu
The epic of Koroǧlu goes beyond the Azerbaijani borders, appearing in the folklore of Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. It has been adapted into operas, films, and literary works, each adding a layer of interpretation to the legendary tale. His ability to inspire and unite people has made him a timeless symbol of heroism in Azerbaijani culture. His story not only preserves the historical struggles of the Azerbaijani people but also celebrates their resilience, creativity, and unyielding spirit.
The tale of Koroǧlu is more than an epic. It is a reflection of Azerbaijani identity, values, and artistry. As a hero who combines strength with a poetic soul, his story reminds us of the enduring power of justice and the importance of cultural preservation. In the annals of Azerbaijani mythology, his name is a beacon of hope and resistance, inspiring generations to fight for what is right and cherish their heritage.
Many believe he was a real historical figure who lived during the 16th century. Once the guns were invented and he could no longer live the life of an outlaw, he disbanded and left without any other trace except the following lines:
“Battalion by battalion, the enemy has come and lined up,
The letters of dark fate are written on our foreheads.
Valor has been lost whence guns were invented
The curved blade in its holster shall rust.” (source)
NOTE: Çenlibel, also known as Çanlibel Golu, is a beautiful lake located in the Guba-Khachmaz region of Azerbaijan.
The Legend of Baba-I Amir
Baba-I Amir was a comic character in Azerbaijani folklore. He often appears in the legends told across Azerbaijan and neighboring regions. He is often depicted as a clever, witty figure who uses humor and intelligence to outsmart others. stories are typically filled with humorous situations and witty dialogues, making them popular among people of all ages.
Long ago, in a small village nestled between the rugged mountains of Azerbaijan, there lived a kind and wise man named Baba-I Amir. He was known far and wide for his deep wisdom, his unwavering sense of justice, and his ability to solve even the most difficult problems. The villagers loved him, for he was their protector, their guide, and their voice when no one else would listen.
One day, news spread throughout the village that a wealthy man had announced a challenge to find a worthy suitor for his beautiful daughter. The challenge was to solve a series of riddles and complete three seemingly impossible tasks. The man who succeeded would win the hand of his daughter in marriage.
Baba-I Amir, always up for a challenge, decided to take part. With a confident smile and a twinkle in his eye, he set off to the wealthy man's grand mansion. Upon arrival, he was greeted by the wealthy man, who eyed him with skepticism.
"Young man," the wealthy man began, "if you wish to marry my daughter, you must first prove your worth by solving my riddles and completing these tasks."
Without hesitation, Baba-I Amir nodded, ready to begin.
The first riddle was presented: "I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I?"
Baba-I Amir thought for a moment before responding, "An echo."
Impressed, the wealthy man moved on to the first task: "You must fetch water from the well using only a sieve."
Undeterred, Baba-I Amir walked to the well and began to think. He quickly realized that the task was impossible if done in the usual way. Instead, he used his cleverness and placed a sponge inside the sieve. The sponge absorbed the water, allowing him to carry it back to the wealthy man.
The second riddle followed: "The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?"
With a knowing grin, Baba-I Amir answered, "Footsteps."
A flicker of surprise crossed the wealthy man's face, but he continued with the second task: "You must weave a rope from sand."
Once again, Baba-I Amir's ingenuity shone through. He gathered wet sand and carefully formed it into a tight coil, allowing it to harden in the sun. The resulting rope was sturdy enough to complete the task.
The final riddle was posed: "What comes once in a minute, twice in a moment, but never in a thousand years?"
Baba-I Amir chuckled before replying, "The letter 'M'."
Astonished by Baba-I Amir's quick wit and resourcefulness, the wealthy man reluctantly presented the final task: "You must capture the wind."
Determined to succeed, Baba-I Amir climbed to the highest point in the village with a large, empty sack. As the wind blew fiercely, he opened the sack wide and then quickly closed it, capturing the wind inside.
Returning to the wealthy man, Baba-I Amir handed over the sealed sack. The wealthy man, now fully convinced of Baba-I Amir's worthiness, could only marvel at his cleverness.
And so, Baba-I Amir won the hand of the beautiful bride, earning not only her love but also the admiration and respect of the entire village. The tale of his cunning and intelligence was passed down through generations, forever celebrating the triumph of wit over wealth.
Baba-I Amir and the Unjust Ruler
During his late years, the village suffered under the rule of a cruel and greedy khan (ruler). This khan cared nothing for the people who toiled day and night to feed their families. He demanded heavy taxes, so much that the villagers could barely keep enough grain for themselves. Those who could not pay were punished severely, their homes taken, and their dignity stripped away.
The villagers grew desperate. One night, they gathered in the square, their faces weary and their hearts heavy. "What can we do?" they cried. "The khan will destroy us all if this continues."
One elder, his voice trembling with age and sorrow, spoke up. "There is only one who can help us, Baba-I Amir. He is wise and fearless. Perhaps he can reason with the khan."
And so, the villagers made their way to Baba-I Amir's humble home, a small cottage at the edge of the forest. They found him sitting under an ancient tree, its branches stretching wide as if to shelter him.
Baba-I Amir listened to their plight and his eyes filled with compassion. "Do not despair," he said gently. "I will go to the khan and speak with him. Justice will prevail, for it is the will of the heavens."
The next day, Baba-I Amir set out for the Khan's grand palace, a towering structure of stone and gold that loomed over the village like a shadow. The guards, seeing the old man in his simple robes, tried to stop him. But Baba-I Amir's presence was so commanding that they had to step aside.
Inside, the khan sat on his throne, surrounded by riches and servants. He sneered when he saw Baba-I Amir. "Who are you, old man, to enter my palace uninvited?"
"I am Baba-I Amir," he replied, "and I come on behalf of the villagers. They suffer under your rule, and I ask you to show them mercy."
The khan laughed, a cold and hollow sound. "Mercy? Why should I show mercy to those who cannot pay what they owe? They are weak, and the weak deserve nothing."
Baba-I Amir's eyes gleamed with quiet determination. "A tree that does not bend with the wind will break," he said. "A ruler who does not care for his people will fall. Do not let your greed blind you to the consequences of your actions."
The Khan's face darkened with anger. "You dare lecture me? Very well, old man. I will give you a chance to prove your wisdom. Answer my riddle, and I will reduce the taxes. Fail, and you will share the fate of the villagers."
Baba-I Amir nodded. "Speak your riddle."
The khan leaned forward, a sly smile on his lips. "What is the greatest treasure in the world, one that no man can live without, yet is often taken for granted?"
The room fell silent. The Khan's advisors whispered among themselves, but no one could guess the answer. Baba-I Amir, however, stood tall and spoke without hesitation.
"The greatest treasure is justice," he said. "For without justice, there can be no peace, no trust, no life worth living. It is the foundation of all that is good, yet it is often overlooked by those in power."
The Khan was stunned. He had expected the old man to fail, but Baba-I Amir's answer struck a chord deep within him. For the first time, he felt the weight of his own cruelty.
In the days that followed, the khan reduced the taxes and returned the villagers' lands. He even sought Baba-I Amir's counsel from time to time, learning to rule with fairness and compassion. The village flourished once more, and the people never forgot the wisdom and courage of Baba-I Amir.
And so, the legend of Baba-I Amir lived on, a reminder that even the smallest voice can bring about great change and that justice, like the mountains of Azerbaijan, will always stand tall.
Baba-I Amir and the Sultan's Puzzle
The fame of Baba-I Amir’s wit and wisdom continued to spread far and wide. One day, the Sultan heard of Baba-I Amir's cleverness and decided to test him.
The Sultan summoned Baba-I Amir to his palace and presented him with a puzzle. The Sultan said, "I have a challenge for you, Baba-I Amir. I will give you a task that no one in my kingdom has been able to solve. If you succeed, you will be rewarded with gold and jewels. But if you fail, you will be banished from the kingdom."
Baba-I Amir, undeterred by the Sultan's words, nodded and agreed to the challenge. The Sultan then brought out a large chest filled with feathers and said, "Your task is to count all the feathers in this chest by tomorrow morning."
Baba-I Amir knew that it would be impossible to count all the feathers in such a short time. However, he had a plan. He took the chest and went home, spending the night thinking of a clever solution.
The next morning, Baba-I Amir returned to the palace with the chest. The Sultan eagerly asked, "Well, Baba-I Amir, have you counted all the feathers?"
Baba-I Amir smiled and replied, "Oh, wise Sultan, it is impossible to count all the feathers in such a short time. However, I have a solution that will satisfy you." He then opened the chest and took out a single feather. "This feather represents all the feathers in the chest. Each feather in the chest is the same, so by counting this one feather, I have effectively counted them all."
The Sultan was impressed by Baba-I Amir's clever reasoning and declared him the winner of the challenge. True to his word, the Sultan rewarded Baba-I Amir with gold and jewels, and Baba-I Amir returned to his village, once again proving that wit and wisdom can overcome any challenge.
Book of Dede Korkut
The mythology and folklore of Azerbaijani have many thrilling stories, epic heroes, and larger-than-life adventures. And nothing captures this better than the Book of Dede Korkut. This collection of tales has been passed down through generations, filled with action, wisdom, and plenty of heart. Let’s explore what makes this book such a legendary part of Azerbaijani culture.
The Origins of an Epic
The Book of Dede Korkut dates back to around the 9th or 10th century and is one of the most treasured collections of Turkic mythology. These stories weren’t originally written down. They were passed down orally from one storyteller to another, keeping alive the spirit of the Oghuz Turks. Over time, they became a written record of heroism, battles, and timeless life lessons that are treasures to this day.
Meet the Heroes and Legends
At the heart of these stories is Dede Korkut, a wise old man who serves as the narrator and advisor. He’s the one spinning these epic tales, offering wisdom, and sometimes stepping in and guiding the heroes. The stories revolve around brave warriors like Salur Kazan, Bamsi Beyrek, and Basat. They take on monsters, rescue loved ones, and fight for honor. These characters live in a world where magic and reality come together, creating some truly unforgettable adventures.
The Stories That Bring This World to Life
The Book of Dede Korkut contains thirteen stories, each packed with action, drama, and wisdom:
Boghach Khan Son of Dirse Khan is a story about a young warrior who fights for his honor and proves his worth.
How Salur Kazan's House Was Pillaged is about a man, Salur Kazan. He returns home to find destruction and then embarks on a journey to reclaim what’s his.
Bamsi Beyrek of the Grey Horse is one of the most beloved tales of this collection. It follows the adventures and romance of Bamsi Beyrek.
How Prince Uruz Son of Prince Kazan was Taken Prisoner is a daring rescue mission to free a captured prince.
Wild Dumrul Son of Dukha Koja is a tale of Deli Dumrul, who is full of pride. He challenges Azrael (the Angel of Death) and learns a life-changing lesson.
Kan Turali Son of Kanli Koja is a love story mixed with heroic challenges, as Kan Turali fights to win his bride.
Yigenek Son of Kazilik Koja is all about a young warrior who proves himself in battle and rescues his grandfather.
How Basat Killed Goggle-eye is a classic monster-slaying story where Basat defeats the terrifying one-eyed Tepegoz.
Emren Son of Begil is a tale of adventure and courage as Emren takes on great challenges and comes out victorious.
Segrek Son of Ushun Koja is a story of brotherhood and bravery as Segrek fights to save his captive brother.
How Salur Kazan was Taken Prisoner and How His Son Uruz Freed Him is yet another thrilling tale of courage and family loyalty.
How the Outer Oghuz Rebelled against the Inner Oghuz and How Beyrek Died combine themes of betrayal, rebellion, and tragedy in a world of warriors.
The Wisdom of Dede Korkut is a collection of wise sayings and proverbs from the legendary storyteller himself.
Why These Stories Still Matter
These aren’t just old myths. They’re stories that shaped the culture and values of Azerbaijan and the broader Turkic world. They teach lessons about honor, bravery, love, and family, and they remind us of the power of storytelling. Even today, these tales influenced literature, art, and even modern media, proving that great stories never really fade away.
A Legendary Legacy
The Book of Dede Korkut is a cultural treasure. It keeps the spirit of the past alive, reminding us of the values and traditions that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a fan of epic battles, deep wisdom, or just a good story, there’s something in these tales for everyone.
So, if you ever find yourself looking for some timeless adventures, take a trip into the world of Dede Korkut. You won’t be disappointed.
That concludes today's discussion about Azerbaijani Mythology. We hope you enjoyed learning about the rich history and beliefs of Azerbaijani culture.
Check out these other articles written by former team members:
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