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The Symbolic Meanings of Shyrdaks 

 The Symbolic Meanings of Shyrdaks

Mother & Child This symbol is the representation of the Keeper of the Hearth and a safe home.	Besh Barmak The literal translation of this symbol is Five Fingers. The implied meaning refers to the traditional Kyrgyz meal Besh Barmak that is eaten with the five fingers of the right hand. Ultimately the symbol represents the satisfaction one feels after a feast.	Soldiers This symbol depicts soldiers standing at attention and in vigilance, providing protection to the homeland.
Rain Here we see, again, two people with arms lifted high in thanks for rain. The symbol can also represent the desire to be victorious in battle.	Blessings This symbol shows a person with arms outstretched, bestowing a blessing.	Jer The circle in shyrdak art represents the world and our connection to it.
Spring Water A spiral form depicts water flowing out of the ground from a wellspring. It symbolizes new beginnings.	River Water The rivers flowing from our mountains are a symbol of life for the Kyrgyz people.	Mountains Kyrgyzstan is known for its many mountain ranges. When illustrated upon a shyrdak it stands for a barrier of protection.
Eternal Movement This ancient spiral design is a symbol for the ever-present movement of the elements of nature. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall.	Bird Tracks The depiction of a Bird’s Track refers to the effect a person has on their family and their community. What a person does leaves a lasting imprint.	Dog’s Tail This subtle double curve symbolizes friendship and acts as a reminder that one has an ally.
Ram’s Horn The ram’s horn refers to great wealth and fortune.	Bird in Flight The depiction of a bird with its wings spread in flight symbolizes the wish that your dreams come true.	Rib & Spinal Column These two designs are used in repetition upon a shyrdak to show strength and support.
Talisman These designs are depictions of traditional talismans used by Turkic people to ward off the influence of spirits	Comb This is a representation of a Kyrgyz hair comb and symbolizes cleanliness.	Yurt Wall This visually striking pattern is the symbol for the inner wall of a yurt. This lattice denotes protection and interdependency.
Saddle Bag Ties This dovetail design is the symbol of faith, hope, and trust.	Kymyz Flask The kymyz flask is a tradition Kyrgyz symbol of success and generosity. Kymyz is the national drink of Kyrgyzstan. It is made from the fermented milk of horses and is drunk during the spring and summer when it is fresh.	The Sun This cross-cultural symbol refers to the source of light for the world.
The Moon This double crescent shows the waxing and waning phases of the moon and is the blessing of good sleep.	The Morning Star This is a stylization of Venus	Day & Night This ancient design refers to the cycle of night and day.
The North Star This embodiment of Polaris and the night sky is a symbol of eternity.	Seed The symbol of the seed is one of blessing and growth.	Leaves These three leaves are representations of the summer pastures known as Jailoh.
Tree This is another cross-cultural symbol representing the Tree of Life.	Pomegranate This symbol shows the many seeds of the pomegranate fruit and indicates fruitfulness and increase.	Tulip This sprouting flower is the herald of spring.

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