Buryat

Buryat refers to both the Buryat people and the Buryat language. The Buryats are a Mongolic ethnic group native to Siberia, primarily residing in the Republic of Buryatia, a federal subject of Russia. The Buryat language is a member of the Mongolic languages family.

Buryat People

The Buryat people are the largest indigenous group in Siberia. They traditionally inhabit the area around Lake Baikal, which is considered the heartland of the Buryat population. The Buryats have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional practices, folklore, and a unique way of life that has been influenced by their environment and history.

History

The Buryats have a long history that dates back to the time of the Mongol Empire. They were originally part of the larger Mongol tribes and were later incorporated into the Russian Empire in the 17th century. The Buryats played a significant role in the history of Siberia and the expansion of the Russian Empire into the region.

Culture

Buryat culture is characterized by its traditional nomadic lifestyle, shamanistic practices, and later, the influence of Tibetan Buddhism. The Buryats have their own traditional clothing, music, and dance, which are important aspects of their cultural identity. The Yurt is a traditional dwelling used by the Buryats, reflecting their nomadic heritage.

Religion

The Buryats practice a mix of Shamanism and Tibetan Buddhism. Shamanism has been a part of Buryat culture for centuries, with shamans playing a crucial role in their spiritual and social life. Tibetan Buddhism was introduced to the Buryats in the 17th century and has since become a significant part of their religious practices.

Buryat Language

The Buryat language is a member of the Mongolic languages family. It is spoken by the Buryat people in the Republic of Buryatia and surrounding regions. The language has several dialects, which can be broadly categorized into three groups: Northern, Southern, and Eastern Buryat.

Writing System

The Buryat language uses the Cyrillic script, which was introduced during the Soviet era. Before the adoption of the Cyrillic script, the Buryat language was written using the Mongolian script.

Status and Preservation

The Buryat language is considered endangered, with efforts being made to preserve and revitalize it. Various cultural and educational programs are in place to promote the use of the Buryat language among younger generations.

Related Pages

• Buryat people
• Republic of Buryatia
• Lake Baikal
• Mongolic languages
• Shamanism
• Tibetan Buddhism
• Yurt
• Mongol Empire