Georgian mythology, a profound reflection of the nation’s ancient roots, encompasses a diverse array of gods, heroes, and supernatural beings that illustrate the rich cultural heritage of the Kartvelian people. Emerging from the historical interactions between indigenous traditions and external influences—such as Hellenistic, Persian, and later Christian beliefs—Georgian mythology represents a unique syncretic tradition. For example, the mythological pantheon includes both Armazi, a god of war and thunder likely influenced by Iranian and Hittite deities, and figures like St. George, who became Christianized over time.
The geographical diversity of Georgia, with its high mountains, fertile valleys, and Black Sea coast, is mirrored in the mythology. Mountain deities like Dali, the goddess of the hunt, reflect the importance of hunting and animal husbandry in these regions. In contrast, deities connected to agriculture and fertility, such as Adgilis Deda, highlight the role of agriculture in the fertile lowlands.
In Georgian culture, mythology is more than just ancient tales; it serves as a foundational element of national identity. These stories have been integral to the Georgian sense of self, especially during periods of foreign domination. For instance, during the centuries-long struggle against Persian and Ottoman invasions, the myth of Amirani, the chained hero who suffers for his people, became a powerful symbol of resistance and endurance.
Even today, Georgian mythology permeates various aspects of daily life and national consciousness. The supra, or traditional feast, often includes toasts that invoke mythological figures, blending these ancient beliefs with Christian rituals. The continued celebration of festivals like Lomisoba, where participants make pilgrimages to sacred sites, underscores the enduring relevance of these myths. In modern times, elements of Georgian mythology have been incorporated into literature, film, and art, helping to preserve these stories for future generations.
The Pantheon of Georgian Deities
Pre-Christian Deities
- Armazi
Armazi was the chief deity of the ancient Georgians, particularly venerated in the kingdom of Iberia (modern-day Eastern Georgia). The colossal statue of Armazi, described in medieval Georgian chronicles, was reportedly adorned with gold and jewels, symbolizing the god’s supreme power. This statue, placed on a hill overlooking the capital of Mtskheta, was so central to the region’s spiritual life that even after the advent of Christianity, the name “Armazi” lingered in local folklore. The cult of Armazi included elaborate rituals, likely involving animal sacrifices, and he was believed to protect the kingdom from enemies.
- Ghmerti
Ghmerti, the god of the hunt and wild nature, was worshipped by communities living in Georgia’s rugged mountains. His domain included the forests and highlands, where hunting was a primary means of subsistence. The reverence for Ghmerti is reflected in the taboos and rituals observed by hunters, who would offer the first fruits of their catch to the god, seeking his favor and protection. Ghmerti’s ability to shape-shift into animals, particularly wolves, underscores the close bond between humans and the natural world in Georgian mythology.
- Dali
Dali, the goddess of beauty, love, and fertility, is one of the most enigmatic figures in Georgian mythology. Often depicted as a stunning, golden-haired woman, Dali was the protector of wild animals, especially deer, which were sacred to her. Hunters who wished to hunt these animals had to first seek Dali’s permission, and those who failed to do so often met tragic ends. Myths describe Dali as a lover to mortal hunters, whom she would aid in their pursuits, but if they betrayed her trust, she would exact terrible vengeance. Her cult likely involved fertility rituals, as Dali was also associated with childbirth and the nurturing of life.
Other Important Deities
- Adgilis Deda
Adgilis Deda, meaning “Mother of Place,” was revered as a guardian of specific locations, particularly crossroads, sacred groves, and mountains. She was often invoked by travelers and those seeking protection during journeys, reflecting the importance of safe passage in a country known for its rugged terrain. Adgilis Deda was also connected to fertility, with offerings made to ensure good harvests and the well-being of children. Her shrines, often marked by simple stone structures or trees, were places of communal worship where people would leave small offerings of food, wine, or coins.
- Ochopintre
Ochopintre, the god of forests and wild animals, was a vital deity for those who lived close to nature, such as shepherds, hunters, and woodcutters. He was depicted as a wild, untamed figure, blending human and animal traits. Ochopintre’s role was to maintain the balance between humans and nature, ensuring that the exploitation of natural resources did not lead to destruction. Festivals in his honor often involved rituals to appease the spirits of the forest, and his favor was sought to prevent disasters such as forest fires or crop failures.
Cosmology and Worldview
The Three-Tiered Universe
- Zeskneli (Upper Realm)
In Georgian cosmology, Zeskneli was the realm of the gods, situated high above the earth. This upper realm was characterized by light, order, and creation, with the gods governing the natural and moral laws that shaped the world. Zeskneli was thought to be a place of eternal sunshine, where the gods lived in splendid palaces. This concept parallels other Indo-European mythologies, where the upper realm is associated with the heavens and the divine order.
- Earth (Middle Realm)
The middle realm, or earth, was the domain of humans, where life’s struggles unfolded. This realm was a place of constant interaction between the divine and the mortal, with gods, spirits, and demons influencing the fortunes of individuals and communities. The concept of fate, or “bedi,” was central to Georgian beliefs, with the idea that one’s destiny was shaped by the gods but could be influenced by human actions, such as prayer, ritual, and moral conduct.
- Kveskneli (Underworld)
Kveskneli, the underworld, was a shadowy and chaotic realm associated with death and malevolent forces. It was thought to be located deep within the earth, a place where the souls of the dead resided and where dark spirits, such as the Devi, roamed. The underworld was not merely a place of punishment but also a necessary counterbalance to the upper and middle realms. Rituals to appease the spirits of the dead and to ensure their peaceful passage to Kveskneli were an important part of Georgian religious practice.
Dualistic Nature of Georgian Mythology
Georgian mythology is characterized by a profound dualism, where forces of good and evil, creation and destruction, light and darkness, are in constant opposition. This dualism is evident in the stories of Amirani and the Devi, where the hero’s struggle against overwhelming odds symbolizes the eternal battle between these forces. The belief in “salosani,” or sacred struggle, reflects the idea that life is a continuous battle to maintain balance and harmony in the face of chaos and adversity. This worldview has deeply influenced Georgian moral and ethical beliefs, emphasizing the virtues of courage, resilience, and righteousness.
Mythological Figures and Creatures
Heroes and Demigods
- Amirani
Amirani is one of the most iconic figures in Georgian mythology, a hero whose story mirrors that of Prometheus in Greek mythology. According to legend, Amirani was born of a human mother and a divine father, giving him extraordinary strength and courage. He defied the gods by stealing fire and bringing it to humanity, an act that symbolizes the human quest for knowledge and progress. For his defiance, Amirani was punished by being chained to a mountain in the Caucasus, where an eagle would devour his liver each day, only for it to regenerate overnight. This cycle of eternal suffering and regeneration made Amirani a symbol of human resilience and the enduring spirit of the Georgian people. His story was celebrated in songs and epic poetry, and he was often invoked as a protector during times of hardship.
- Aieti
Aieti, the legendary king of Colchis, plays a significant role in both Georgian and Greek mythology. As the ruler of the land where the Golden Fleece was kept, Aieti is connected to the myth of Jason and the Argonauts. In Georgian tradition, Aieti is revered not only as a king but also as a lawgiver and the bringer of civilization to the region. His association with the Golden Fleece, a symbol of wealth and power, reflects the ancient importance of Colchis as a center of commerce and culture. The story of Aieti highlights the interconnectedness of Georgian mythology with broader mythological traditions, particularly those of the ancient Mediterranean world.
Supernatural Beings
- Devi
The Devi are a class of malevolent giants or demons in Georgian mythology, often depicted as adversaries to both gods and humans. These beings, typically portrayed as enormous and grotesque, represent the forces of chaos and destruction. Myths involving the Devi often depict them as terrorizing villages, stealing livestock, or causing natural disasters, until they are defeated by a hero or divine intervention. The Devi are symbolic of the wild, untamed aspects of nature and the ever-present dangers that threatened early Georgian communities.
An example of the Devi’s role in Georgian mythology is seen in the legend of Amirani, where the hero must confront and defeat these malevolent beings. The Devi are often associated with natural disasters, such as earthquakes and landslides, reflecting the harsh and unpredictable environment of the Caucasus region. In some tales, they are depicted as cannibalistic giants who terrorize mountain villages, embodying the fear of the unknown and the uncontrollable forces of nature.
- Kudiani
Kudiani, or witches, are supernatural beings with significant power over the natural and spiritual worlds in Georgian mythology. They are often portrayed as both alluring and dangerous, with the ability to shape-shift, cast spells, and influence human destiny. Kudiani could be either solitary figures living in remote areas or part of a coven that gathered during certain times of the year, particularly during the night of “Kvirikoba,” when witches were believed to be most powerful.
The tales of Kudiani reflect societal fears and anxieties about the unknown and the supernatural. In Georgian villages, stories of witches were often used to explain misfortunes such as crop failures, illnesses, or unexpected deaths. The presence of Kudiani in these tales highlights the cultural significance of magic and superstition in Georgian society, where rituals and protective charms were commonly used to ward off their malevolent influence. Additionally, the duality of the Kudiani, who could be both benefactors and destroyers, underscores the complex relationship between humans and the supernatural in Georgian belief systems.
- Paskunji
Paskunji are mythical bird-like creatures similar to the phoenix in other cultures. In Georgian mythology, Paskunji are often depicted as gigantic birds with colorful plumage, capable of bringing both life and destruction. These creatures were believed to have the power of rebirth, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life, death, and renewal. In some legends, Paskunji would assist heroes on their quests, particularly by transporting them between different realms or providing them with crucial information.
Paskunji also appear in stories related to the transition between life and the afterlife. For instance, they were believed to guide the souls of the dead to the underworld, serving as psychopomps similar to the role of the Greek god Hermes. The myth of Paskunji reflects the deep spiritual beliefs of the Georgian people regarding life after death and the importance of rituals to ensure the safe passage of souls.
Rituals, Practices, and Festivals
Religious Festivals
- Sazivrari
Sazivrari is a traditional festival marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It is one of the oldest agricultural festivals in Georgia, reflecting the agrarian roots of the culture. During Sazivrari, communities would gather to offer sacrifices to the gods, particularly to Ghmerti, the god of nature, and Adgilis Deda, the goddess of fertility. These offerings were intended to ensure a bountiful harvest in the coming year.
The rituals of Sazivrari often included the preparation of special foods, the lighting of bonfires, and the singing of folk songs that invoke the deities’ blessings. One of the key elements of the festival was the “Marioba,” a ritual in which the first plow was driven into the earth, symbolizing the renewal of life and the start of the agricultural season. The festival also included a communal feast, where families and neighbors would come together to celebrate the end of winter’s hardships and the hope of a prosperous future.
- Lomisoba
Lomisoba is a religious pilgrimage and festival dedicated to Lomi, a pre-Christian god associated with fertility and protection. The festival is held annually at the Lomisa shrine, located in the mountains of eastern Georgia. Pilgrims from across the country travel to the shrine, where they participate in rituals that blend pagan and Christian traditions.
The central ritual of Lomisoba involves the sacrifice of sheep, whose blood is used in rituals meant to ensure fertility, protect livestock, and bring good fortune. The festival also includes the tying of ribbons or threads to the shrine’s trees, a practice believed to bind wishes to the divine. Lomisoba is a vivid example of how ancient Georgian pagan practices have been integrated into the country’s Christian religious life, reflecting the continuity and adaptability of Georgian spiritual traditions.
Cultural Practices
- Supra
Supra, the traditional Georgian feast, is a cornerstone of social and religious life in Georgia. These feasts are not merely meals but are deeply ritualistic gatherings where the community comes together to celebrate life’s important events, such as births, weddings, and religious holidays. The Supra is led by a “tamada,” or toastmaster, who guides the event through a series of toasts that often invoke the gods, ancestors, and mythological figures.
The toasts at a Supra are a key element of the ritual, each one carefully crafted to honor different aspects of life and the divine. For example, a toast might be made to the memory of ancestors, who are believed to continue watching over their descendants. Another toast might invoke the protection of Armazi or Ghmerti, asking for their blessings on the assembled group. The Supra is a living tradition that demonstrates how Georgian mythology and spirituality remain integral to the social fabric of the nation.
- Berikaoba
Berikaoba is a traditional Georgian folk festival that involves masked performances and mock battles, often featuring characters from Georgian mythology. The festival is a form of carnival, where the social order is temporarily upended, and participants engage in humorous and satirical performances. The masks worn during Berikaoba often depict mythological figures, such as Devi, Kudiani, or heroes like Amirani.
Berikaoba is both an entertainment and a ritual, blending elements of ancient pagan festivals with Christian practices. The festival serves as a means of preserving and transmitting the stories and values of Georgian mythology to younger generations. It also provides a space for the community to engage in collective catharsis, releasing tensions and reinforcing social bonds through shared laughter and celebration.
Influence on Modern Georgian Culture
Georgian mythology has been preserved and transmitted through various means, including oral traditions, literature, and modern media. The oral tradition is perhaps the most enduring, with many myths and legends passed down through generations by bards known as “meskhuruli.” These bards would recite epic poems and songs that told the stories of heroes like Amirani, Dali, and Aieti, ensuring that these tales remained a vital part of the national consciousness.
In addition to oral traditions, Georgian mythology has been recorded in literary works dating back to the medieval period. The “Kartlis Tskhovreba,” a collection of Georgian chronicles, contains numerous references to ancient myths and deities, providing a written record of these traditions. In modern times, Georgian writers, filmmakers, and artists have drawn inspiration from these myths, using them to explore contemporary themes and issues.
For example, the poet Vazha-Pshavela, one of Georgia’s most revered literary figures, incorporated elements of Georgian mythology into his works, such as “The Snake-Eater” and “Host and Guest.” These works not only preserved the myths but also reinterpreted them for a modern audience, highlighting their continued relevance.
In contemporary Georgia, mythology continues to influence various aspects of culture, from literature and film to festivals and popular media. Modern adaptations of Georgian myths often explore themes such as the struggle for freedom, the conflict between tradition and modernity, and the relationship between humans and the natural world.
For instance, the film “Parajanov’s Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors,” though primarily Ukrainian, was heavily influenced by Caucasian mythological themes, including those from Georgian mythology. The resurgence of interest in traditional festivals, such as Lomisoba and Berikaoba, also reflects a renewed appreciation for the cultural heritage embodied in these myths.
Moreover, Georgian mythology plays a crucial role in the country’s national identity, particularly in the context of political and social challenges. The myth of Amirani, in particular, has been invoked as a symbol of resistance and resilience in the face of external pressures. This has been especially evident in the arts and political discourse, where references to these ancient stories are used to rally national pride and unity.
