"The Concise Encyclopaedia of Modern Uyghur Social Customs and Traditions" stands as an invaluable compendium delving into the cultural fabric and heritage of the Uyghur people, an ethnic Turkic community in Eastern and Central Asia. Distinguished from their nomadic counterparts, the Uyghurs have nurtured a settled civilization for over a millennium. Their strategic location at the crossroads of the Eurasian Continent has imbued their culture with a diverse tapestry, reflecting the influence of ancient trade routes and yielding a variegated and vibrant expression.
The encyclopaedia meticulously catalogues pivotal facets of Uyghur cultural heritage, emphasizing that Uyghur customs and their accompanying narratives serve as pivotal testimonials to a culture in constant flux, ultimately culminating in its contemporary identity. The elucidation of social norms and traditions in this compendium unveils roots that run deep in history, maintaining relevance in the present day. Analogous to any society, Uyghur society's structural organisation mirrors its members' collective preferences and the pragmatic necessities of each epoch.
Numerous elements of these inherited customs and practices profoundly contribute to shaping a contemporary ethnic identity. This thorough compendium of living traditions and their attendant narratives provides a framework for comprehending the myriad rituals and ceremonies that constitute modern Uyghur identity's bedrock.
The term 'customs' here encapsulates the traditional practices and conventions shared by a people or nation, preserved from generation to generation. This compendium is deliberately designed for universal Uyghur use, offering guidance, implementation, and even standardization. It is an indispensable read for anyone, elucidating the processes of birth, growth, stages of marriage, the joys of parenthood, and the routines and rituals accompanying individuals from old age to death.
A wealth of literature, articles, and research endeavours dedicated to Uyghur customs exists, covering various subjects from social production to dietary habits and behaviours. This dictionary encapsulates a compendium of associated knowledge and information to provide a convenient resource for Uyghur people. It enables individuals to glean insights into various incidents, events, environmental conditions, and customs, offering a valuable resource for the comprehensive understanding, preparation, and appropriate implementation of practices.
The "The Concise Encyclopaedia of Modern Uyghur Social Customs and Traditions" has been skilfully arranged, systematized, and presented in a logical and relevant manner to create a comprehensive work in a language accessible to the general populace. The author's extensive review of relevant sources and references and the meticulous curation of terms directly related to daily life is evident. Notably, several terms in this dictionary are absent from the "Explanatory Dictionary of Uighur Language," indicating the presence of unexplored linguistic resources within the Uyghur community.
This encyclopaedia is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Uyghur customs and traditions, celebrating their continued relevance in a rapidly changing world. Its meticulous documentation and thoughtful presentation make it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding the cultural heritage of the Uyghur people. The author's dedication to preserving and sharing this knowledge is commendable, ensuring that these customs and traditions are cherished for future generations.
Reference:
Zunun, Memet T. (2019) The Encyclopedia of Uyghur Tradition and Social Customs. London: Uyghur Language Study.
Comments
Post a Comment