Fire in the ritual culture of the Mordovinias: origins, traditions, scope

Introduction. The ritual sphere of ethnic culture has traditionally been a subject of study in ethnology. In recent decades, new research approaches have emerged in this area, with a particular focus on the understanding that ritual practices in modern contexts serve as important factors of identification. This is especially relevant for the Mordovians, among whom assimilation processes are rapidly progressing. The goal of this study is to identify the origins, ritual functions, and the original and contemporary significance of fire and its derivatives (such as ash, charcoal, smoke, etc.) in the rituals of the Mordvin people.