The Oghuzname: Founding Epic of the Oghuz Turks

Introduction

The Oghuzname is the founding epic of the Oghuz Turks, ancestors of the Turks of Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan. This epic narrative recounts the exploits of Oghuz Khan, the conquering hero who gave his name to this group of peoples.

Origins of the Narrative

The Oghuzname exists in several versions, the oldest dating back to 14th-century Uyghur inscriptions. The narrative was transmitted orally for centuries before being written down.

The Birth of Oghuz Khan

Oghuz Khan is born with supernatural traits: his face shines like the sun. From birth, he refuses mother's milk and demands meat, a sign of his exceptional warrior nature.

The First Conquests

As a young man, Oghuz Khan fights a dragon terrorizing his people. This victory marks the beginning of his career as conqueror. He subjugates neighboring peoples and extends his empire in all directions.

The 24 Oghuz Tribes

Oghuz Khan has six sons, each giving rise to four tribes. These 24 Oghuz tribes form the basic social structure of the Oghuz Turks. Each tribe possesses its own emblem (tamga) and place in the hierarchy.

The three eldest sons (Bozoq) have precedence over the three younger ones (Üçoq).

Cosmic Symbolism

The Oghuzname is imbued with Turkic cosmic symbolism. The number 24 corresponds to the 24 hours of the day. The totemic animals attributed to the tribes (eagle, falcon, wolf) reflect the veneration of natural forces.

Political Legacy

The Oghuzname served as a political charter for Oghuz Turkish dynasties, from the Seljuks to the Ottomans. Descent from Oghuz Khan legitimized the sultans' power.

Transmission and Versions

Several versions of the Oghuzname exist. The version by Rashid al-Din (14th century) and that of Aboul Ghazi Bahadour Khan (17th century) are the most complete. Each version reflects the concerns of its era.