In traditional Kazakh society, the image of the ideal man was far from modern stereotypes of brute force or loud proclamations. Authority was earned through self-control, generosity, and keeping one's word, reports infohub.kz.
The foundation of reputation was the concept of "erdin sozi" (a man's word). Promises were taken with utmost seriousness, and breaking them was considered a disgrace that was nearly impossible to wash away. Folk wisdom says: "Erdin eki soylegeni — olgeni" — for a man, breaking a promise is tantamount to death.
In traditional Kazakh society, it was not enough for the ideal man to possess physical strength or hold a high position. What was valued was the ability to control one's emotions and adhere to behavioral norms. A man also had to be generous and able to acknowledge the power of a just word.
These norms manifested in small details: a well-bred man never rode his horse right up to someone else's yurt, did not take a place of honor without an invitation, and did not interrupt elders. The host gave the best piece to the guest, and the aksakal spoke when others were ready to listen.