Peko

Peko (Estonian, Finnish Pekko, Pellon Pekko or Pellonpekko = " field - Pekko " ) referred to in the Estonian and Finnish mythology, the god of the field and of fertility, especially of brewing and barley.

Importance

The pre-Christian cult of the fertility god Peko was alive especially in the Orthodox Finno-Ugric people of Setukesen in what is now southern Estonia and the area around the Russian city Pechory until the 20th century.

The God is considered one of the most important elements of the setukesischen culture. The Setukesen revered him as "King ", a national hero and a national symbol. The traditionally elected King of Setukesen sees itself as a representative Pekos on earth.

History

Peko was first mentioned in 1551 by the Finnish reformer Mikael Agricola as the god of Karelians. Peko is also associated with the Estonian thunder god Pikne ( Pitkne ) and the Baltic thunder god Perkūnas in conjunction.

Cult

The Community Main cult divided into a spring and an autumn festival. Before the Pentecost celebrations held the young adult Setukesen before sunrise a ritual fight, until the first drop of blood flowed. The first casualties was the guest of honor at next year's festival. The second festivities in honor of Peko were held after the harvest. Older men made ​​offerings dar. Commonly used was the formula " Peko Peko, come for the beer to drink ." But were to worship Pekos also throughout the year, including, ritual gatherings held at Candlemas and Midsummer.

Especially wooden figures of Pekos were an important part of the Peko - cult. ( Black ) Candles were lit in his honor. Normally, the wooden images Pekos on the top holes for candles had. Carved idols of Peko custody the Setukesen - mostly protected from prying eyes - in the granaries.

National epic

Peko is also the name of the 1927 created setukesischen national epic. Initiator was the folklorist Paulopriit Voolaine (1899-1985), who worked closely with its invention of the most famous folk singer Anne setukesischen Vabarna ( 1877-1964 ).