Jura, Sichovyk, kleinods – words that reveal the spirit of the Cossack era

If we talk about the Cossack era, it is impossible to avoid words that convey the spirit of that era, its customs and symbols. Some of them entered the modern language, and some remained in history as markers of Ukrainian independence and struggle. "Jura", "sichovyk" and "kleinods" – are three concepts that open the veil of the past to us and help us better understand the structure, traditions and peculiarities of Cossack life.

The word "jura" comes from Turkic languages and means "servant", "helper", "comrade". In the Cossack environment, young boys who studied military affairs under the tutelage of experienced Cossacks were called juras. It was a kind of trial period, during which young men learned fighting skills, took care of weapons, mastered traditions and learned to survive in the harsh conditions of the steppe.

Jura did not just follow the orders of the elders – he was preparing to become a real Cossack. Folk songs and literature often mention that the Juras accompanied hetmans and basket chieftains on campaigns, carried their weapons and took care of horses. Being a jura – was a great honor and responsibility, because the Cossacks raised in the youth not only military valor, but also loyalty to brotherhood, honor and devotion to their native land.

The term "Sichovyk" comes from the word "Sich", which means a fortified settlement of Cossacks. Zaporozhye Sich was the heart of the Cossack republic, the place where the fate of Ukraine was achieved. It was here that military units were formed, important decisions were made and the idea of freedom was hardened.

Those who lived in Sich and were its full member were called Sichovites. They were brave warriors who had no family responsibilities and devoted their lives to military affairs. Their main duty was to protect Ukrainian lands from enemy attacks, participate in campaigns and maintain order in the Cossack environment. The Sichovs were famous for their fearlessness, skill in battle and devotion to their comrades.

Subsequently, the word "Sichovyk" became associated not only with the Cossacks, but also with the military formations of the beginning of the 20th century – Ukrainian Sich Riflemen, who fought for the independence of Ukraine.

"Kleinods" – are special awards that symbolized the power and dignity of the Cossack foreman. This word is of German origin ("kleinod" – "jewel", "treasure"), but in Ukrainian history it has acquired a special meaning.

The hetman's mace, pernach, bunchuk, flags, timpani, flags and seals were called kleinods. They served not just as decorations, but were real symbols of military power and Cossack autonomy. For example, the mace was considered the main insignia of the hetman's power, and the bunchuk symbolized his military power. The Cossacks treated the kleinods with special respect, because their loss meant humiliating the honor of the entire Cossack army.

Even after the decline of Zaporizhzhya Sich, kleinods remained an important element of Ukrainian symbolism. Today, they are used in the design of state awards, and their images can be seen on the coats of arms of Ukrainian cities and regions.

Although the times of the Cossacks are a thing of the past, their traditions and symbols continue to live in modern Ukraine. Juras now call the participants of the All-Ukrainian children's and youth military-patriotic game "Sokil" ("Jura"), which is designed to educate young people in patriotism, strength of spirit and responsibility. The word "sichovyk" is associated with fighters for the independence of Ukraine in different historical periods. And kleinods, as before, remain a symbol of power, honor and national pride.

The Cossack era imprinted in the Ukrainian language not only words, but also a whole system of values – loyalty, honor, courage and struggle for freedom. Therefore, every time we say "jura", "sichovyk" or "kleinods", we remember the glorious past, which is still inspiring today.