Exploring Kazakh Names: Significance in Identity and Ancestry
Catchy, revised version:
Kazakh names: Meanings, symbols, and a glimpse into The Astana Times team
In the heart of Kazakhstan, names are more than just labels—they're reminders of rich traditions, family values, and sometimes, guardians of destiny. Here's a peek into the fascinating world of Kazakh naming practices, complete with deep-rooted symbolism and cultural significance.
Photograph courtesy of Aiman Nakispekova/The Astana Times
Did you know that Kazakh names hail from a blend of Turkic, Arabic, Persian, Mongolian, Iranian, and even Russian origins? From Tanirbergen to Allabergen, these names may share the same root – given by God – but each carries its unique twist!
Family members, particularly the elders, often play a significant role in the naming process. They choose a child's name based on virtues, strengths, or desired characteristics, believing that a name can influence one's destiny.
Gender-specific naming trends
Historically, boys were believed to be more susceptible to the "evil eye" than girls, leading to differences in naming practices. Girls' names highlighted beauty, purity, or nature, with monikers like Zhibek (silk), Raushan (rose), Kyzgaldak (tulip), Altyn (gold), Kumis (silver), Gaukhar (emerald), and Marzhan (pearl) taking center stage. Celestial bodies also inspired the naming process, as names like Kunsulu (beautiful as the sun), Aisulu (beautiful as the moon), and Sholpan (morning star) showcased the admiration for the cosmos.
Boys' names were much more rugged, rooting themselves in power, strength, and resilience. Animals, such as Burkit (eagle), Kyran (falcon), and Kaskyrbai (brave as a wolf), served as inspiration, as well as strong materials like Temir (iron) and Shoiynbai (steel). Names connected to weapons, like Kylyshbek (strong saber) and Naizabai (rich in stakes), symbolized aspirations of courage and fearlessness. Lastly, the naming process also honored ancestors, warriors, poets, and rulers, while avoiding grand titles deemed too hefty for a young child, like the legendary queen Tomiris, who was affectionately known as Tommi.
Names as protectors
Beyond their symbolic meanings, Kazakh names also served protective purposes. If a family suffered multiple losses, they might name the next child Toktar (let it stop), Tursyn (let it stay), Zhursin (let him go), or Olmes (immortal) to halt the string of bad luck. To welcome a long-awaited son, daughters might bear names like Ulbolsyn (may there be a son), Ulzhalgas (may the son continue), Ulzhan (the soul of a boy), or Ulbala (a girl like a boy). Premature births also inspired names like Shalabek, Shalabai, or Zhartygul.
The power is in the name
A child born at the beginning of the month might receive the name Aibas, symbolizing leadership, while a child born during the morning would earn the title Tanatar, meaning a leader, and a child born at dawn would be welcomed as Kunshygar, promising a bright future.
The Astana Times Team: Beyond the Names
Even today, Kazakh parents select names that appear simple yet hide profound meanings. Names that resonate with nature, family history, or spiritual beliefs are common.
Ever wondered about the profound meanings behind the names of the brilliant minds behind The Astana Times? Let's delve into their personal stories!
Award-winning journalist Aibarshyn Akhmetkali's name translates to "truly brave" in Kazakh, and her name tales are as inspiring as her career. "The root of 'Aibarshyn' comes from 'aibar,' meaning brave in Kazakh, and the ending 'shyn' means truly," she shares. Initially, Aibarshyn's mother chose her name based on a dream about a lion or a tiger, symbolizing her hopes for a brave daughter. As she grew, Aibarshyn discovered that her name could also be divided into "ai" (moon) and "barshyn" (an ancient word meaning female wolf), further reinforcing its symbolism of power and strength.
Radio journalist Dana Omirgazy's name resonates with wisdom, as it means "wise" in both Kazakh and Persian. She treasures its international appeal and simplicity. Its various translations in other languages – such as "big pearl" in Arabic, "God is my judge" in Hebrew, and "God-given" in Slavic languages – signify her desire to approach life with caution, thoughtfulness, and spiritual guidance.
Taking inspiration from her namesake, Assel Satubaldina's name carries the beauty and gentleness of a daisy. She recalls that her dad chose it for its soft and soothing sound, while its other interpretations as "honey," "twilight," and "evening" only added to its appeal. Assel reflects the warmth and kindness that she hopes to impart in her interactions with others.
Despite their diverse backgrounds, these powerful women at The Astana Times all share one thing in common: their names. Names that echo their personalities, their aspirations, and their deep-rooted connections to Kazakh culture.
- The Astana Times team members' names are more than just labels, they signify profound meanings, reflecting their personalities and their deep-rooted connections to Kazakh culture.
- Aibarshyn Akhmetkali's name, meaning "truly brave," carries symbolism of power and strength, echoing her career as an award-winning journalist.
- Dana Omirgazy's name, meaning "wise" in both Kazakh and Persian, signifies her desire to approach life with caution, thoughtfulness, and spiritual guidance.
- Assel Satubaldina's name, associated with the beauty and gentleness of a daisy, represents the warmth and kindness she hopes to impart in her interactions with others.
