The spatial symbolism of funeral rites and the revitalization of the soul cult in the funeral and memorial practices of the Kabardians

The article analyzes the transformations in the funeral and memorial rites of the Kabardians, focusing on the central role of the concept of the soul (“pse”) and its spatial symbolism. Traditional ritual practices, which synthesized animism, the norms of "Adyghe Khabze" and Islam, are considered as a complex social institution regulating the relationships between the worlds of the living and the dead. The main focus of the research is shifted to the analysis of the spatial organization of the funerary and commemorative sphere, namely the practices of creating a sacred space that structures the interaction between the living and the deceased and determines the corresponding ritual actions and behavioral norms directly related to the cult of the soul. These traditional practices formed a holistic system that included the preparation of special memorial food "khyedeyus" (Kabardian-Cherkess – "food for the deceased"), endowing ritual dishes with deep symbolism, strict adherence to a detailed funeral protocol, and a special, sacred attitude toward the soul of the deceased. In the modern context, the author documents a profound transformation and desacralization of these practices under the influence of globalization and re-Islamization, leading to the rejection of many practices as "impermissible actions" and causing intra-family conflicts. The analysis concludes that the cult of pse is not disappearing but is undergoing a process of revitalization through the recoding of its meanings.

As ways to constructively overcome potential conflicts, the implementation of educational and scientific projects, the application of digital technologies, and dialogue with religious institutions are proposed. The ultimate goal is not the conservation of archaic forms but the adaptation of profound spiritual connections to preserve the cultural identity of the Kabardians in the 21st century.

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