Ivan and Iakov: Two Strange Saints from the Marshes of Novgorod
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Ivan et Iakov – Deux saints étranges de la région des marais (Novgorod)
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Traduit du russe par Yvette Lambert
Original source:
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Alexandr A. Pančenko
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Ivan et Iakov – Deux saints étranges de la région des marais (Novgorod)
Year: 2005 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.2797
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article by Alexandr A. Pančenko, translated by Yvette Lambert, explores the contemporary state of popular religious practices in Russia, focusing specifically on the local cult of the holy brothers Ioann and Iakov Meniushskie. This cult, which emerged in the late 17th century, has endured despite significant historical transformations, including the reforms of Peter the Great and the atheistic campaigns of the Soviet regime. Through fieldwork conducted from 2002 to 2004, the author examines the historical context, cultural roots, and current dynamics of this religious practice, highlighting its role as a sphere of competition among various social groups and discourses.
The Role of Local Saints in Cultural Memory
One of the key concepts discussed is the significance of local saints within the cultural memory of rural communities. The cult of Ioann and Iakov is rooted in the unique traditions of the Novgorod region, where local residents have preserved narratives about the brothers, who are venerated for their miraculous intercessions. The article emphasizes the importance of oral traditions and folklore in maintaining the saints' memory, as these stories not only convey the historical events surrounding the saints but also serve as a means of community identity and cultural continuity in the face of external influences.
Interplay Between Religious Traditions
Another important concept is the interaction between different religious traditions and discourses that has shaped the cult over time. The author notes that while the official Orthodox Church has its own narratives regarding Ioann and Iakov, local interpretations remain significant among the rural population. These narratives often compete with the ecclesiastical version and reflect the broader dynamics of how religious beliefs and practices are adapted and maintained within local contexts. The resilience of this local cult in the face of reform and suppression illustrates the fluidity of religious identity among peasant communities.
The Impact of Sociopolitical Changes
The text also examines the impact of sociopolitical changes on local religious practices, particularly during the Soviet era. The aggressive campaigns against religion in the 1920s and 1930s aimed to suppress popular religious practices, including the veneration of saints. However, rather than completely eradicating these traditions, such efforts resulted in various adaptations whereby rural communities found ways to continue their worship discreetly, often outside the formal structures of the church. The survival of the cult of Ioann and Iakov is presented as a testament to the persistence and adaptability of folk religious practices.
Variations in Pilgrimage Practices
Another concept discussed in the article is the evolution of pilgrimage practices associated with the cult of Ioann and Iakov. The pilgrimage to the site of their veneration has shifted over time, reflecting changes in the social and cultural landscape. In the modern context, the influx of urban pilgrims seeking healing and spiritual connections to the local saints introduces new dynamics to the traditional practices, leading to a hybridization of ritual forms. The author highlights the differing approaches taken by local residents and urban pilgrims, revealing tensions and interactions that shape the contemporary religious landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pančenko's article illustrates the complex interplay between tradition and modernity in the context of the cult of Ioann and Iakov Meniushskie. By examining how this local practice has survived and adapted through history, the author sheds light on broader themes of cultural preservation, the negotiations of religious identity, and the ongoing relevance of folk traditions in contemporary Russia. The persistence of this cult underscores not only the resilience of popular religious practices but also the significance of local narratives in shaping collective memory and identity within rural communities.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
Who translated the article from Russian to French?
The article was translated from Russian to French by Yvette Lambert.
What are the main subjects of the article?
The article focuses on the local cult of the holy brothers, Ioann and Iakov, in the Novgorod marshlands, examining their historical significance, cultural roots, and the current state of their veneration.
When did the cult of Ioann and Iakov arise?
The cult of Ioann and Iakov emerged in the late 17th century and has since survived various sociopolitical changes and challenges, including reforms by Peter the Great and Soviet atheistic campaigns.
What role did rural priests play in preserving local religion?
Rural priests often served as intermediaries between the peasant communities and the authorities, playing a significant role in maintaining traditional forms of popular religion during the synodal period.
What impact did the Soviet 'campaign of atheism' have?
The Soviet campaign of atheism in the 1920s and 1930s significantly influenced rural religious practices, resulting in some adherence to religious traditions despite attempts at suppression and adaptation to new cultural contexts.
What themes are central in the narrative of Ioann and Iakov?
Key themes in the narrative include the fratricide incident, the miraculous appearance of their relics, and the subsequent veneration of the brothers, reflecting broader socio-religious dynamics within Russian folklore.
How do contemporary practices differ among local worshippers and pilgrims?
Local worshippers primarily engage in personal rituals and oral storytelling, while pilgrims often focus on collective rites and seek out the therapeutic qualities of the cult, leading to differing expectations and practices.
What is the current state of the village of Menjuša?
Today, Menjuša remains a site of pilgrimage with regular ceremonies held, but the local church’s condition is poor, indicating a need for restoration and continued engagement from the community.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Ivan and Iakov: Two Strange Saints from the Marshes of Novgorod”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Child (Children):
The narrative poignantly centers on the innocence of the two children, Ioann and Iakov, whose actions lead to tragic consequences. As children elevated to sainthood, they become symbols of purity, impacting local worship practices and embodying the community's familial and spiritual aspirations.
2) Village:
The village of Menjuša is central to the narrative of Ioann and Iakov, where their cult developed. The cultural and religious practices of the villagers demonstrate the existence of a local identity that is closely tied to the reverence for these saints and their miraculous deeds that resonate through the oral tradition.
3) Cult:
The cult of Ioann and Iakov reflects the longstanding tradition of worship surrounding local saints in Russia. This cult has its roots in the miraculous events associated with their deaths and the subsequent veneration practices that have continued for centuries, emphasizing community identity and spiritual connection.
4) Priest:
The role of the priest in the village of Menjuša is to facilitate religious observances related to the cult of Ioann and Iakov. He serves as an intermediary between the spiritual world and the community, guiding worship practices while advocating for the local saints, highlighting the priest's influence in shaping religious identity.
5) Worship:
Worship of Ioann and Iakov includes various rituals, prayers, and communal gatherings, emphasizing the significance of their miracles in the collective memory of the village. The celebrations not only honor the saints but also reinforce the spiritual ties within the community and its connection to the divine through ritual observance.
6) Religion:
The study of the cult of Ioann and Iakov exemplifies the complexities of religion in a local context, showing how popular beliefs intertwine with institutional practices. Religion here takes shape through community traditions, oral narratives, and collective identities surrounding the figure of the saints, connecting the past with present beliefs.
7) Coffin:
The story mentions coffins that miraculously appeared on a lake, linking them to the children's deaths and their eventual burial. This phenomenon adds to the mystical aura surrounding Ioann and Iakov, symbolizing their transition from death to saintly status, thus becoming key elements in the narrative of veneration.
8) Death:
Death is a central theme in the narrative of Ioann and Iakov, as it triggers the miraculous events that lead to their cult's formation. Their tragic deaths not only highlight themes of innocence but also serve as a catalyst for the spiritual transformation of the place of worship in Menjuša.
9) Woman (Women):
Women play a significant role in the communal practices surrounding the cult, often as carriers of oral traditions and as participants in rituals. Their involvement underscores the importance of female figures in maintaining the continuity of religious beliefs and practices within the community.
10) Dead:
The existence of the dead children as saints is central to the local religious identity. The dead are transformed into miraculous figures who continue to interact with the living, emphasizing the relationship between the sacred and the mortal within the local cult in Menjuša.
11) Pilgrimage:
Pilgrimage to the site of Ioann and Iakov has become a tradition, demonstrating the enduring significance of these saints in contemporary Russian religious culture. Pilgrims from various places come to partake in ceremonies, seeking healing and blessings, thus enriching their spiritual journeys through communal practices and sacred experiences.
12) Power:
The power dynamics between the local villagers, priests, and urban pilgrims illustrate the complexities of religious authority and worship practices surrounding the cult. Understanding these power relations is essential to grasp how different communities engage with the saints and negotiate their spiritual identities.
13) Poem:
Spiritual poems about Ioann and Iakov reflect an oral tradition that preserves their story and the miracles attributed to them. These poems play a role in the worship practices and serve as a means for expressing faith and devotion among the congregation, enriching cultural and religious expression.
14) Forest:
[see source text or glossary: Forest]
15) Mars (Marsh):
The marshy landscape surrounding Menjuša becomes integral to the narrative, representing both a physical and spiritual space where the miraculous events surrounding the saints took place. This natural setting enhances the lore and mystique of Ioann and Iakov's story, connecting the environment with the divine.
16) House:
The house where the tragedy began is linked to the upbringing of Ioann and Iakov, illustrating domestic life infused with religious significance. The family's home acts as a backdrop for the events that unfold, emphasizing the intersection of everyday life and spiritual experiences in rural communities.
17) Prayer:
Prayer is essential in the veneration of Ioann and Iakov, forming a crucial part of the rituals conducted by the priest and the villagers. It underscores the connection between the faithful and the divine, facilitating requests for healing and miracles and strengthening the communal bonds through shared supplication.
18) Demon:
[see source text or glossary: Demon]
19) Curse (Cursing, Cursed):
The concept of a curse arises within the narrative, implying spiritual conflict and struggles that reflect broader themes of transgression and redemption. Curses symbolize the challenges faced by the characters, while also serving as catalysts for miraculous events in the religious storytelling tradition.
20) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation refers to the metamorphosis of Ioann and Iakov from children into venerated saints posthumously. This change denotes the intersection of life, death, and spiritual significance, shaping how the community perceives their existence and integrates their cult into local religious practices.
21) Spiritual:
The spiritual essence of the cult lies in the miracles attributed to Ioann and Iakov, which continue to inspire faith among the villagers. Music, poetry, and oral traditions revolve around their story, underlining the profound role of spirituality in everyday life and the collective memory of the community.
22) Peaceful:
[see source text or glossary: Peaceful]
23) Trinity:
The Trinity plays a role in the ceremonial practices associated with the worship of Ioann and Iakov, where prayers and rituals often reference the Holy Trinity. This connection to broader Christian beliefs situates the local cult within the context of established Orthodox theology.
24) Lying:
[see source text or glossary: Lying]
25) Dream (Dreaming):
Dreams are intertwined with the narrative of Ioann and Iakov, where miraculous appearances in dreams lead to significant revelations and actions by the community, indicating the importance of dreams as a medium for divine communication and guidance in folk religious practices.
26) Sheep:
Sheep symbolize the pastoral life and elements of sacrifice in the narrative, particularly through the actions of the children's father. The act of killing a sheep becomes a pivotal moment that foreshadows the tragedy, linking domestic life with the unfolding spiritual events.
27) Jana:
[see source text or glossary: Jana]
28) Oral tradition:
Oral tradition serves as a crucial vehicle for transmitting the stories of Ioann and Iakov and their worship practices within the community. The narratives passed down through generations highlight the significance of storytelling in preserving cultural memory and religious identity.
29) Communication (Communicating, Communicate, Communicated):
Communication among villagers regarding the story of Ioann and Iakov enhances the collective understanding of their significance. Sharing narratives through oral exchanges strengthens community ties and reinforces shared beliefs and experiences surrounding the local cult.
30) Consecration:
The consecration of the church dedicated to Ioann and Iakov reflects institutional recognition of the local cult, linking it to the broader Russian Orthodox Church. This process of consecration elevates the spiritual status of the worship site, aligning local practices with official religious rites.
31) Celebration:
Celebration of the feast day for Ioann and Iakov embodies the community's devotion, with rituals and gatherings that strengthen social bonds. The celebration resonates with themes of rebirth and continuity in local religious practices, emphasizing collective identity and expressions of faith.
32) Destruction:
Destruction refers to the loss of religious sites during periods of persecution and repression, impacting the practice of local worship. Despite such destruction, the resilience of the cult of Ioann and Iakov illustrates the enduring nature of popular religious practices in the face of adversity.
33) Existence:
The existence of the cult of Ioann and Iakov reflects a blend of historical, cultural, and spiritual elements that shape local identity and religious experiences. Their presence in the community continues to affirm the connections between past events and contemporary belief systems.
34) Cemetery:
The cemetery serves as a significant location in the narrative, marking the final resting place of Ioann and Iakov. This space becomes intertwined with the community's spiritual practices, as it holds memories of the saints and is a site for pilgrimage and reverence.
35) Identity:
The identity of the village is closely linked to the cult of Ioann and Iakov, as it shapes the community's cultural and spiritual life. The saints serve as symbols of local pride and continuity, reflecting the rich traditions of faith that are integral to the village's character.
36) Barbara (Varvara):
Varvara, the mother of Ioann and Iakov, represents a maternal figure within the narrative, whose actions and circumstances influence the events leading to the children's deaths. Her role highlights the familial aspect intertwined with the sanctification of the children, enriching the collective memory surrounding them.
37) Nature:
Nature plays a prominent role in the cult of Ioann and Iakov, with the marsh and surrounding environment serving as settings for miraculous occurrences. This interconnection between the divine and the natural world underlines the significance of ecological spaces in popular religious practices among rural communities.
38) Masha (Masa, Ma-sha):
[see source text or glossary: Masha]
39) River:
The river becomes symbolic in the narrative, representing the flow of life and the connection between the earthly and the divine. It is also associated with pilgrimage and the act of purification, as villagers seek healing and blessings through water during their worship practices.
40) Stone:
The stone church dedicated to Ioann and Iakov represents a steadfast symbol of religious identity and community resilience. As an architectural element, it serves as a physical manifestation of the veneration practices that have evolved over generations around the saints.
41) Space:
[see source text or glossary: Space]
42) Sela (Shela, Shel, Sel):
[see source text or glossary: Sela]
43) Fire:
Fire is significant in the story as it relates to the tragic death of Ioann, who perished in the stove. This element symbolizes both destruction and purification, playing a key role in the transformation of the children into saints and reinforcing themes of sacrifice and suffering.
44) City:
[see source text or glossary: City]
45) Lead:
[see source text or glossary: Lead]
46) Book:
[see source text or glossary: Book]
47) Mind:
[see source text or glossary: Mind]
48) Disappearance (Disappeared, Disappear, Disappearing):
The disappearance of the children and the subsequent appearance of their coffins on the lake serves to heighten the mystical quality of their cult. This theme represents the complex relationship between death and the sacred in the local religious narrative.
49) Environment:
The environment surrounding Menjuša, particularly the marshes, contributes to the cult's unique character and the perceived miracles associated with Ioann and Iakov. These natural elements provide a backdrop for spiritual experiences and highlight the significance of regional landscapes in shaping local beliefs.
50) Science (Scientific):
[see source text or glossary: Scientific]
51) Knowledge:
[see source text or glossary: Knowledge]
52) Lightning:
Lightning is referenced in stories of other saints, providing parallels to miraculous events. This element signifies the divine intervention associated with tragic deaths and the eventual emergence of saints, demonstrating the interconnectedness of natural phenomena and spiritual beliefs in Russian folklore.
53) Sorcery:
[see source text or glossary: Sorcery]
54) Farmer:
The farmer within the narrative represents the agrarian roots of the village community, emphasizing the connection between daily life and religious practices. This link highlights the ways in which local labor contributes to the reinforcement of cultural and spiritual identities in rural settings.
55) Memory:
The collective memory of Ioann and Iakov's story is preserved through oral tradition, celebrations, and rituals that keep their legacy alive in the community. Memory functions as a significant aspect of cultural identity, tying the past with the present through ongoing worship practices.
56) Nauka:
[see source text or glossary: Nauka]
57) Birth:
The birth of Ioann and Iakov is a pivotal event in the narrative, signifying the commencement of their spiritual journey. Their innocent beginnings serve as a stark contrast to the tragedy that befalls them, underscoring themes of purity and divine purpose within the cult.
58) Fight:
The concept of fight is reflected in the spiritual struggles faced by the community as they navigate between the demands of external influences and their traditional beliefs. This internal fight shapes the dynamics of worship and the preservation of local practices against external pressures.
59) Earth:
The earth represents both the physical and spiritual foundation of the village of Menjuša, grounding the cult of Ioann and Iakov in a tangible landscape. The connection to the earth highlights the interplay between local culture and environmental context in molding spiritual experiences and practices.
60) Judge:
[see source text or glossary: Judge]
61) Night:
Night in the narrative can symbolize the hidden, mysterious aspects of faith and the supernatural occurrences associated with Ioann and Iakov. The darkness serves as a backdrop for miraculous events, emphasizing the interplay between light and dark in spiritual experiences.
62) Sight:
Sight is symbolically tied to the miraculous healing attributed to Ioann and Iakov, where believers recover their vision both physically and spiritually. This theme highlights the transformative power of faith and the unseen spiritual forces at work in the lives of the villagers.
63) Faith:
Faith serves as the foundation of the cult of Ioann and Iakov, motivating believers to participate in rituals and pilgrimage. This deep-seated faith connects the community to their saints, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual fulfillment that transcends ordinary experience.
64) Human:
The human aspect of the narrative is embodied in the relationships and emotions surrounding the children’s story. The plight of Ioann and Iakov as innocent victims resonates with the community, reflecting shared human experiences of loss, hope, and redemption.
65) Tura (Tura°):
[see source text or glossary: Tura]
66) Rusha (Rusa):
[see source text or glossary: Rusa]
67) Tree:
Tree symbolism may reflect themes of growth, life, and divine proximity in the local cult. While specific references may not be present in the existing text, trees often serve as sacred symbols in various religious traditions, which may connect to the broader themes explored in the worship of Ioann and Iakov.
68) Game:
The children's act of play leading to tragedy symbolizes innocence and the profound consequences of seemingly simple actions. This theme emphasizes the fragility of life and the intertwining of mortal experiences with the sacred narratives of local cults and spiritual beliefs.
69) Foot (Feet):
[see source text or glossary: Foot]
70) Burial site:
The burial site of Ioann and Iakov is a focal point for the local cult, representing their passage into sainthood. This location serves as a sacred space for rituals, symbolizing the connection between life and death, and the ongoing presence of the children among the living community.
71) Wild beast:
Wild beasts in the narrative may symbolize the untamed forces of nature that surround the village. These elements often intertwine with the miraculous themes associated with Ioann and Iakov, enhancing the mystical atmosphere of their cult and the environment in which it thrives.
72) Transmission:
Transmission of the cult's stories through oral tradition strengthens the community's bonds and keeps the memory of Ioann and Iakov alive. This process of sharing narratives underscores the role of storytelling in preserving cultural and spiritual heritage across generations.
73) Repression:
Repression of religious practices during historical periods has impacted the worship of Ioann and Iakov, demonstrating the challenges faced by local beliefs against dominant ideological forces. This struggle reflects the resilience of popular religion amid efforts to suppress faith and traditional practices.
74) Perception:
The perception of Ioann and Iakov as saints is shaped by the villagers' experiences and the narratives that circulate within the community. Public perception plays a vital role in strengthening their cult, influencing the ways in which their story is shared and revered among both local and visiting pilgrims.
75) Experience:
Experience is fundamental in the context of religious practice, where the lived realities of villagers shape their understanding of the veneration of Ioann and Iakov. Their spiritual experiences during rituals and pilgrimages foster a sense of community and collective identity around the cult.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 132]