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Ni̇yaz: Tunceli̇’De Kansiz Bi̇r Kurban Geleneği̇

2019, Journal of Turkish Studies

The tradition of sacrifice which is accepted to have started since the prehistoric ages is a tradition that has survived by changing, transforming and evolving over the centuries and will continue its effect hereafter. The bloody sacrifice performed in the form of bloodshed, by the aim of spiritual focus, is the widely preffered form of sacriface in our society. However, in our society's belief practices, it is possible to see active codes of the bloodless sacrifice tradition besides bloody sacrifice. Tunceli is one of the places where the tardition of bloody sacrifice is seen most. Tunceli, which has been home to many civilizations since anciet times is a settlement with a deep-rooted belief structure and rituals. During the religious ceremonies, in holy days and when they want to pray God without any mediator, local people cook and distribute a kind of muffin called niyaz, which is kneaded with flour, butter, water or milk. The sacred niyaz bread is distributed to family members, relatives, neighbours as well as people in holy places along with fruit and nuts In this study, the tradition of bloodless sacrifice seen in the Tunceli region since ancient times and the practice of distributing niyaz within this tration were discussed. The place of this religious practice in the belief system of the people was clarified by avaluating times in which sacred niyaz bread is made, places it distributed and the rituals done during this practice.