In an age where boundaries often feel insurmountable, literature serves as a bridge, inviting readers to traverse vast historical and cultural landscapes. This was evident last week as I delved into “The Byerley Turk,” authored by Jeremy James.

The narrative chronicles the remarkable journey of a horse, tracing its path through the Ottoman Empire, the staunch battlefields of Europe, and the bustling streets of London. Yet, woven within these pages are themes that resonate profoundly across cultures, particularly the Turkish phrase “At, Avrat, Pusat” – literally translating to horse, woman, and weapon.

This phrase embodies the essential elements of Turkish life, signifying values deeply entrenched within the cultural fabric of the Turkic peoples. It harkens back to a time of nomadic existence, where the horse was not merely a companion, but a vital instrument for survival and a manifestation of power and nobility. The Turkish warrior’s bond with his horse is emblematic of mutual respect and loyalty, a relationship cultivated through independence and strength that lies at the heart of the Turkic ethos.

However, the narrative does not cease at the borders of Turkey. In many African cultures, similar themes are echoed, illustrating a shared human experience that transcends geographical confines.

The horse, revered among groups such as the Fulani and Tuareg, is a potent symbol of status and power. African horsemen, akin to their Turkic counterparts, have historically assumed the role of community protectors, their steeds essential not only for sustenance in warfare but also for ceremonial rites.

The second component of the triad, “avrat,” refers to the archetypal figure of a woman – a pillar of strength and sustenance within the family unit. Turkish tradition positions women as the backbone of the household, entrusted with nurturing children and ensuring the lineage continues. This notion finds its parallel in many African societies, where women are equally indispensable, maintaining family and community cohesion through their unwavering spirit and resilience.

Lastly, the ‘pusat’ – or weapon – signifies the inherent duty to defend one’s family, homeland, and honour. It represents courage and steadfastness against adversity, often held in reverent esteem. Through generations, weapons become symbols of legacy and protectors of identity, from Maasai warriors in East Africa, whose martial culture revolves around rigorous training for community defence, to the renowned Zulu warriors under King Shaka, famed for their military prowess tied intricately to their weapons.

The convergence of these themes underscores a rich cultural resonance, illuminating shared values that bind Turkish tradition and African heritage together. The phrase “At, Avrat, Pusat” is not merely a reflection of Turkic ideals but serves as a window into the myriad ways humanity connects through shared experiences and values.

As we seek to understand our distinct yet intertwined narratives, “The Byerley Turk” stands as a testament to how stories can unite diverse cultures under a common banner, reaffirming the significance of horse, woman, and weapon as emblematic of human experience. In this interconnected world, celebrating such shared heritage promises not only mutual respect but also a deeper appreciation of our collective journey through time.

* Halim Gençoğlu is a historian with PhD from UCT and is a post-doctoral fellow at Wits University.

** The views expressed here are not necessarily those of Independent Media.

Cape Argus

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