Ethics in the Steppe: Exploring Kazakh Nature-Culture Connection

The nomadic lifestyle and its profound impact on Kazakh culture and worldview deserve special recognition, as they have shaped the essence of their identity. At the core of Kazakh nomadic existence lies a unique “human-nature” paradigm, where a symbiotic relationship with the natural environment is central.¹Nurysheva, Gulzhikhan, Zhyldyz Amrebayeva, and Aydar Amrebayev. “The Kazakh Ethical Tradition and Anti-Nuclear Ethics.” In Energy Justice Across Borders, edited by Gunter Bombaerts, Kirsten Jenkins, Yekeen A. Sanusi, and Wang Guoyu, 69–87. Cham: Springer International Publishing, 2020. Link.

Constant movement, an intrinsic part of the nomadic way of life, embodies a relentless pursuit of progress and perpetual adaptation.

This nomadic lifestyle has bestowed Kazakhs with a practical approach to life, devoid of materialistic tendencies or the pursuit of wealth accumulation.²Ferret, Carole. “The Ambiguities of the Kazakhs’ Nomadic Heritage.” Nomadic Peoples 20, no. 2 (2016): 176–99. Instead, the challenges posed by frequent resettlement and arduous migrations have nurtured qualities such as patience, mutual understanding, communal living, discipline, and more.³“On Nomad Culture and Its Contribution.” Accessed July 27, 2023. Link.

Unlike sedentary societies, where power structures often pose challenges, the nomadic community thrives on traditions, customs, and the constant flux of interpersonal dynamics. A nomadic individual, distinct from their sedentary counterparts, retains a sense of relative independence within society.⁴Ibid.

The nomadic spirit instills a spirit of self-reliance and a connection to the broader social fabric, enabling Kazakhs to uphold their individuality while actively participating in communal life. This intricate balance between autonomy and community shapes the remarkable resilience and adaptability of the nomadic Kazakh people.

Within the Kazakh understanding, the pursuit of a meaningful existence lies at the heart of human life. Every day is regarded as a precious opportunity, one to be cherished and contemplated extensively, while constantly striving for personal growth and progress.⁵Nysanbaev, Yerlan B. Sydykov and Abdumalik N. “Personal Meaning of the Kazakh Philosophy in the Space of Intercultural Dialogue.” International Journal of Environmental and Science Education, August 3, 2016. Link.

In understanding the Kazakhs’ way of life, death assumes a profound significance deeply rooted in their cultural beliefs and traditions.

While death is a natural phenomenon, Kazakhs view it not as an end in itself, but as an integral part of the continuous cycle of life. This perspective draws from their rich heritage, which encompasses elements of shamanism, Islamic teachings, and nomadic spirituality.

Kazakhs embrace a holistic view of existence, where life and death are interconnected and mutually dependent. This perspective is shaped by their historical nomadic lifestyle, where the ebb and flow of life and the cycles of nature were intimately intertwined.

For Kazakhs, death is not seen as a finality, but rather as a transformative passage to another realm.⁶Sydykov, Yerlan B., Abdumalik N. Nysanbayev, and Erbol A. Kurmanbaev. “Kazakh Philosophy: From Abai to Shakarim.” International Journal of Environmental and Science Education, Vol. 11, No. 10, 2016, pp. 3661-3669.

In Kazakh culture, the rituals surrounding death and mourning play a significant role. They provide solace and support to the bereaved, fostering a sense of community and collective resilience. These rituals often involve commemorative gatherings, storytelling, and practices that honor the deceased and their legacy.⁷Küçük, K. “Traditions of birth, wedding and death of the Kazakhs.” Uluslararası Medeniyet Çalışmaları Dergisi, VII (I), 2022, pp. 13-23.

Moreover, the concept of a meaningful life holds great importance for Kazakhs. They believe that the purposeful actions and intentions one cultivates throughout their existence resonate beyond death. It is through leading a virtuous and purpose-driven life that individuals can transcend mortal limitations and leave a lasting positive impact on their community and future generations.⁸Sydykov, Yerlan B., and Abdumalik N. Nysanbaev. “Personal Meaning of the Kazakh Philosophy in the Space of Intercultural Dialogue.” International Journal of Environmental and Science Education, Vol. 11, No. 10, 2016, pp. 3690-3699.

The Kazakh perspective on death encapsulates a profound acceptance of the natural cycles of life, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things. It reminds us of the transient nature of our own existence and encourages us to embrace each moment, live purposefully, and nurture meaningful connections with others and the world around us.