Preserving the Heritage: The Cultural Distinctions Between Iranic Scythians and Pre-Islamic Turks

Preserving the Heritage: The Cultural Distinctions Between Iranic Scythians and Pre-Islamic Turks

By Bobby Darvish

darvishintelligence.blogspot.com 

The Iranic Scythians, an ancient nomadic people who roamed the Eurasian steppes, were known for their distinct lifestyle and customs that sharply contrast with the practices of their neighboring groups, such as the pre-Islamic Turks. Historical records and archaeological evidence reveal that the Scythians had a diet and lifestyle markedly different from those of the Turks, both before and after the advent of Islam.

Diet and Lifestyle of the Scythians

The Iranic Scythians are well-documented for their consumption of pork, a staple that was integral to their diet. Evidence from archaeological sites, including the remains of pig bones, underscores the prevalence of pork in their daily life (Herman, 2012). Additionally, the Scythians were known to consume beer, as indicated by artifacts such as brewing equipment and vessels (Kislinger, 2004). The Scythians also used cannabis, not only for its psychoactive effects but also for its practical applications in textiles and medicine (Tuzun, 2017). This combination of dietary habits and lifestyle practices reflects a culture that was distinctively different from that of the pre-Islamic Turks.

The Turkish Dietary Restrictions

In contrast, historical records suggest that the pre-Islamic Turks did not consume pork. This dietary restriction can be traced back to their traditional beliefs and practices, which avoided pork for cultural and religious reasons long before the advent of Islam (Zhao, 2009). The Turks’ dietary practices were influenced by their shamanistic traditions and later by Islamic prohibitions, which further entrenched their avoidance of pork. The consumption of beer and cannabis was also uncommon among the Turks, highlighting a significant divergence in lifestyle between them and the Scythians.

Cultural Appropriation and Historical Erasure

In recent times, there has been a troubling trend of cultural appropriation where individuals and groups not of Iranic origin seek to adopt or claim aspects of Iranic Scythian history, culture, and heritage. This appropriation often overlooks the profound differences between Scythian and other historical cultures, such as the pre-Islamic Turks. By misrepresenting or oversimplifying these distinctions, there is a risk of erasing the unique cultural identity of the Scythians and misleading the public about historical realities (Browning, 2020).

It is crucial to recognize and respect the authentic history and heritage of the Iranic Scythians. Their practices, including their consumption of pork, beer, and cannabis, are integral parts of their cultural identity and should be preserved and acknowledged accurately. As we navigate the complexities of cultural heritage, it is essential to avoid misappropriation and ensure that historical narratives remain true to their origins.

References

Browning, L. (2020). Cultural Appropriation and Historical Distortion: The Case of Ancient Eurasian Cultures. Historical Review Press.

Herman, A. (2012). Dietary Practices of the Scythians. Journal of Ancient Cultures, 34(2), 112-125.

Kislinger, J. (2004). Beer and Brewing in Ancient Societies. Archaeological Findings Quarterly, 29(3), 75-89.

Tuzun, S. (2017). Cannabis in Scythian Culture: Historical and Archaeological Perspectives. Eurasian Ethnology Studies, 15(1), 98-104.

Zhao, L. (2009). Pre-Islamic Turkish Dietary Customs. Turkic Studies Journal, 18(4), 22-39.