The Rite of Passage among Karaite Turks: Birth

The word Karaim is derived from the Aramaic-Hebrew kara meaning to read with the plural suffix im. In Hebrew, םיארק karaim means “those who read the scriptures”. Over time, Karaite became the name of a Turkish tribe. Historical data indicates that the Karaites, descendants of the Khazar state, adhered to the Karai sect of Judaism, which recognized only the Torah. Consequently, due to their adoption of a distinct belief system, it is natural for the Karaites to exhibit differences in the rituals and customs associated with the “childbirth” phase, an important transitional period in human life. As is well known, the rituals performed during the transition period are designed to determine the new status of the newborn, to offer blessings, and to protect against perceived dangers and harmful influences that are believed to be particularly potent during this period. These practices constitute the fundamental elements of the cultural memory codes of the Karaite Turks. This study aims to explore and analyze both the basic beliefs of the Karaites regarding birth, which are rooted in Turkish culture, and the rituals that have been influenced by Jewish beliefs. By collecting information from individuals interviewed during field research (Karaite Turks residing in Lithuania and Crimea), the study seeks to determine whether there are any similarities between their customs, traditions, beliefs and practices and those observed in the present day and whether these ceremonies continue.