THE SYMBOLIC OF NUMBERS IN THE WINTER HABITS FROM ALMĂJ VALLEY, CARAȘ-SEVERIN COUNTY
THE SYMBOLIC OF NUMBERS IN THE WINTER HABITS FROM ALMĂJ VALLEY, CARAȘ-SEVERIN COUNTY

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study is to examine a few symbols of numbers that are found in the ceremonial texts (carols, Christmas carols) which belong to the caroling customs, but also to other practices of the winter holidays, referring to Almăj Valley, Caraş-Severin County. It is worthy of note that, in traditional cultures, numbers are considered to have different meanings, existing not only as signs, but also as carriers of certain symbols of human being or of cosmos; therefore, they have a ritualistic-symbolic value and also a religious one. Among them, the most frequently encountered are: one, two, three, four, while others appear once at most in the texts and traditions above-mentioned (forty-five). Usually, the occurrence of these symbol-numbers is closely linked to specific figures or practices that are adapted to the rural community life (initiated-hero accompanying elements, characters of the texts, objects of worship, the use of ritual gestures etc.), especially that, generally, the habits reflect the human conception of the universe and the world around.

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