The Dagdan Tree Holds a Special Place in the National Heritage of the Turkmen People
Amul Info ·
The dagdan tree holds a special place in the traditional heritage and ancient beliefs of the Turkmen people. Known locally as “yrgaý”, its durable wood was used to make handles for household tools and side supports for traditional baby cradles.
Nature-related beliefs and concepts have long played an important role in the ancient traditions, customs and beliefs of the Turkmen people. One example is the dagdan tree, which is regarded as sacred in folk tradition. The book Türkmeniň döwletlilik ýörelgesi by Hero-Arkadag also provides valuable information about the significance of this tree in Turkmen life and the customs and beliefs associated with it.
Our ancestors widely used the dagdan tree in everyday life, believing that it protected people from the evil eye and harmful words. Also known among the people as “yrgaý”, the tree was valued for its strength and ease of processing. For this reason, it was used to make handles for household and agricultural tools such as hoes, mortars and hammers.
The dagdan tree also featured in Turkmen traditional life, including the custom of making cradles. In traditional yurts, the supporting wooden poles, known as “gabsalar”, placed on either side of cradles woven from decorative cords, were made from dagdan wood. Its strength helped ensure the durability of the cradle. According to folk belief, these wooden supports protected babies from the evil eye, harmful words and various dangers.
Traditions associated with the dagdan tree reveal our ancestors’ distinctive attitude towards nature, their cultural beliefs and practical life experience. Studying this heritage and passing it on to future generations are important for preserving the values of national culture.