The Tradition of Hatir in the Funerary and Commemorative Rites of the Pontic Greeks of Russia: Semantics, Ritual Functions, and Ethnocultural Parallels

Abstract

The article examines the complex semantics of the word “khatir” (‘memory’, ‘respect’, ‘favor’, ‘condolences’; Turk. hatır, Pontic χατίρ’) and its conceptualization within the funeral, memorial, and wedding rites of the Pontic Greeks in Russia. Based on field materials collected in Greek communities across Georgia, the North Caucasus, and Krasnodar Krai, the study analyzes the semantic transformation of the term from its original everyday meanings of “respect” and “favor” into a specialized ritual term within the context of funeral and memorial practices. Particular attention is paid to the functioning of “khatir” as a complex element of ritual communication, encompassing not only verbal formulas for expressing condolences to the bereaved family but also a set of ritual actions, a material code (symbolic gifts, mourning attributes), and strict behavioral prescriptions. The paper details three primary ritual contexts for the realization of the “khatir” concept: an act of expressing condolences to the family of the deceased, a mechanism for seeking permission to hold a wedding during a period of mourning, and a practice of demonstrating respect for ancestors at the cemetery. The study emphasizes the unique nature of this rite, which developed under conditions of prolonged intercultural interaction among Greek, Turkic, and Caucasian populations. “Khatir” is presented as a key marker of the ethnic identity of the Pontic Greeks, serving as a unifying factor for both Hellenophone-Romaioi and Turkophone-Urum communities.

Acknowledgements
The study was supported by the Russian Science Foundation grant No. 22-18-00484-П, https://rscf.ru/project/22-18-00484-P/.

Received: 11.08.2025.
Revised: 12.08.2025.
Accepted: 16.09.2025.

Citation
Klimova K. A. The Tradition of Hatir in the Funerary and Commemorative Rites of the Pontic Greeks of Russia: Semantics, Ritual Functions, and Ethnocultural Parallels // Slavic Almanac. 2025. No 3–4. P. 168–184 (in Russian). DOI: 10.31168/2073-5731.2025.3-4.08