Turkic mythology is a system that is closely tied to the elements of nature as an inevitable result of the nomadic and transhumant lifestyle. At the center of this system is the Sun, the source of life.
Who is Koyash?
Koyash (Old Turkic: 𐰸𐰆𐰖𐱁), also known by names such as Koyaş, Kuyaş, Kuyaş Ata, is the personification of the sun in Turkic mythology. It is believed that he lives on the seventh floor of the sky.
The creation of Koyash plays a vital role in the cosmogonic process for the continuity of life on earth. In some creation myths, it is said that Kayra created the Earth and all celestial bodies in the universe with the rays of the sun. In this context, it can be said that Koyash was an active entity in the beginning of order and life in the cosmic universe.
Koyash’s parents are Kayra and Yertengri. This duo exhibits a “transcendental” unity in the mythological sense. While Kayra represents the sky and the higher dimensions of the universe, Yertengri symbolizes the world and material existence. It is thought that Koyash provides the relationship between these two poles and establishes the balance in the universe.
Koyash’s siblings include Ay Ata (Father Moon). As mentioned, the warmth and life symbolized by Koyash is complemented by the cold represented by Ay Ata. In Turkic mythology, the Moon is associated with darkness and cold, while Koyash is identified with life and warmth. Thus, it can be said that the two brothers create an archetypal balance. This cosmological duality forms an important part of the dualistic understanding in Turkic mythology.
Koyash is also associated with the spirits of plants, animals and humans. In Turkic mythology, sun rays are believed to be ropes that connect the spirits of these beings to heaven. These ropes can be considered a symbolic extension of Koyash’s power. The belief that sun rays carry cosmic energy also forms the basis of prayers and rituals performed to Koyash in shamanism.
The Role of Koyash in Turkic Mythology
Koyash, as mentioned above, is considered the source of life and energy in Turkic mythology. Nomadic Turkic peoples greatly respected Koyash and saw him as a force that directly ensures the continuity of life.
Koyash’s roles include bringing light and warmth to the earth and continuing the cycle of life. He also helps establish spiritual communication between plants, animals and humans. The rays he sends to the earth are thought to be a means of transmitting life force to newborn babies.
Koyash’s influence is not limited to life alone. He also assumes a role similar to the god of war. When necessary, Koyash helps protect his people against enemies. In this context, it can be said that Koyash is considered both a creative and destructive being.
Descriptions
Koyash, the personification of the sun, is usually depicted with abstract qualities, like many gods and goddesses in Turkic mythology. However, in some mythological narratives, he is embodied as a fiery bird or a winged horse. These depictions symbolize Koyash’s journey through the sky. The fiery bird is one of the most common symbols of Koyash in shamanist iconography. It shows that Koyash is a celestial being and carries energy and light from the heights to the earth. The winged horse emphasizes his speed and power.
The Sun in Turkic Mythology
In Turkic mythology, the Sun is considered the primary source of life and energy. The Sun represented by Koyash can be considered not only a physical entity but also an archetype.
In Central Asian and Siberian societies, sun worship is a direct expression of respect for the continuity of life. Nomadic and transhumant peoples showed great respect for the cycles of nature and the Sun, which played an important role in these cycles. Praying towards the Sun was not only a physical gratitude, but also a cosmological commitment and spiritual purification. In line with these traditions shaped by the influence of animism and shamanism, the masculine qualities of the Sun were deified as Koyash Ata (Father Koyash), and the feminine qualities as Gün Ana (Mother Sun).
Among the Turks, the fact that the doors of the tents of the khans faced east and the doors of the houses opened to the east is another indication of respect for the Sun. Russian historian and ethnologist Lev Gumilev also stated, based on Chinese sources, that the Hun rulers prayed to the sun twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, and that this tradition was later continued by other states in the region.
Koyash’s Equivalents in Other Mythologies
Koyash, in many ways, has functions similar to solar deities in world mythologies. Dazhbog in Slavic mythology, Helios in Greek mythology and Napkiraly in Hungarian mythology are the most well-known equivalents of Koyash.
Dazhbog, the sun god in Slavic mythology, is considered the source of life and fertility, similar to Koyash. He is the god of justice and light. He plays a protective role over people. Both mythological characters reflect societies’ devotion to nature and the sky.
Helios, the sun god in Greek mythology, has many similarities with Koyash. Helios rides a golden chariot and carries the Sun across the sky. A parallel can be drawn between Koyash’s winged horse or fiery bird depictions and Helios’ golden chariot. Both figures are considered gods who travel through the sky and bring light to the world.
Napkiraly, on the other hand, appears as a mythological figure similar to Koyash in Hungarian mythology. Napkiraly, as a personification of the Sun, represents the Sun’s power and life-giving properties among the Hungarian people. Like Koyash, Napkiraly was a deity revered by the people and sanctified in daily rituals.