The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan has proposed using native Kazakh expressions instead of borrowed Arabic words in everyday speech, the website infohub.kz reports.
The DUMK press service recalled that this week the head of state, speaking at the 10th congress of the International Society "Qazaq Tili," set out important ideas on developing the Kazakh language. In particular, the president raised the issue of the frequent use of Arabic words in place of native words connected with religion. The administration said it is therefore important to distinguish between the role of language in religious rites and its use in everyday speech.
"Reciting verses of the Quran, prayers and zikrs in Arabic during namaz is of special significance. While respecting our native language, we must also take into account the special role of the words used in worship. At the same time, respect for the native language is shown by expressing one's thoughts clearly and understandably in Kazakh in everyday communication, appropriately using established words and concepts," the DUMK statement said.
For example, Kazakh has long had its own names for the concepts "iftar" and "suhur" — "auyzashar" and "saresi." "These words are inextricably linked to the fasting traditions of our people. The expressions 'Auyzasharga keliniz' ('Come to the breaking of the fast') and 'Saresige turayyq' ('Let us rise for the pre-dawn meal') are understood by both older and younger generations. By using such established names, we preserve both religious traditions and our linguistic heritage," the administration added.
The DUMK recalled that the names of the five daily prayers — "tan," "besin," "ekinti," "aqsham" and "quptan" — are also firmly rooted in the religious life of the Kazakh people. "The use of these names in everyday conversations, sermons and prayer schedules is understood by most people and corresponds to established linguistic traditions. In addition, one can often hear some people addressing one another with the words 'akhi,' 'ukhti,' 'abla,' 'abi,' 'brother' and 'sister.' In our view, it is preferable in such cases to use the Kazakh words 'bauyrym,' 'agham,' 'inim,' 'apkem,' 'apam' and 'qaryndasym.' These forms of address not only express closeness and respect but also help preserve our people's traditions, which are based on honoring elders and caring for the young," the statement said.
The DUMK added that wise ancestors were able to pass spiritual and moral values on to following generations in their native language. Through expressions such as "Amanatqa qiyanat zhasama" ("Do not betray the trust placed in you"), "Kisi aqysyn zheme" ("Do not take what belongs to others"), "Obal bolady" ("That is a sin") and "Sauap bolady" ("That is a good deed"), they instilled honesty, responsibility and compassion in children. "To pass this spiritual heritage on to the modern generation, it is necessary to reveal the meaning of such expressions and explain their significance using examples from everyday life," the DUMK said.