The semantic status of household items made of metal in the context of ritual culture of the Mordvinians

The article discusses the semantic status of the household items of metal in ritual complexes of the Mordvinians. The author analyzed the origin, original meaning and modern condition of these important structural elements of traditional rituals. It is shown that in the ceremonies, they have different symbolic meanings: they can Express the content of the ritual, can function as a kind of as apotropaic (amulets), can be used in medical magic, etc. In conclusion, the article notes that to date, the material scope of the ritual complexes of the Mordvinians have changed. In connection with the disappearance of the everyday life of many household goods of metal, vanish and many of the rituals associated with them, changes the meaning of the use of these items in rituals.