The Hidden Serpentine Image in Turkic Cosmogonic Myths: Erlik Khan

Ғылыми мақала

Abstract

This study examines the serpentine image of Erlik Khan in the Altai creation myth. Identifying his serpentine nature paves the way for clarifying the role and significance of the snake in the cosmological worldview of the Turkic peoples. In doing so, it provides a foundation for demonstrating that, as in other mythological traditions such as those of Sumer, China, and Egypt, the motif of the snake is also present in Turkic creation myths. For this purpose, Erlik Khan’s role and characteristics are comparatively analyzed in the context of the period from the beginning of the creation event to his emergence as the ruler of the underworld, alongside other mythological serpent-like figures. In the course of this analysis, the underlying aim of Erlik Khan’s changeable relationship with the deity Ülgen—to maintain cosmic harmony—is first identified. As a result, parallels are revealed between Erlik Khan and, on one hand, the cosmic serpent residing at the base of the World Tree, and on the other, the serpent-bodied hero Yu in Chinese mythology. In particular, the similarities between Erlik Khan and Zmeya Baba Khan in terms of dwelling, function, and sacred qualities are examined in depth, with special attention paid to their initiatory traits that intersect through the context of blacksmithing. Ultimately, the study aims to identify the parallels between Erlik Khan and various mythological serpent figures from multiple perspectives. These identified similarities, in turn, may serve as a basis for reinterpreting and reconstructing Erlik Khan’s image as a serpentine mythological figure.