My research question is: To what extent does Slava manifest the patrilineal transmission of kin group membership? This research is based on a Serbian Orthodox Church tradition of celebrating the family’s patron saint. The origin of the ritual dates back to the time Serbs were converted to Christianity (Ranković, 2003). Abruptly baptized, the people needed to feel a certain connection to their previous polytheistic beliefs, and have thus created a ritual glorification of a patron that guards their home, fireplace, and family.
Slava passes from generation to generation, from father to son. While the sons live with their father, they celebrate the same Slava, but when one moves away he establishes his own Slava by choosing the saint that will …show more content…
In my whole experience of Slava, this event brought up the most internal conflict to me –considering as religion is something I, myself, do not resort to. Even though a bit sceptic, this was a part of my fieldwork, and the whole experience was surprisingly positive. The atmosphere was solemn and peaceful, and there was something in the air that gave the feeling of belonging, family, and magic. From the time we returned to their house and until two in the afternoon preparations were still in order, white table cloths on tables, the best silverware and plates with it. At around two guests began to arrive. When a guest arrives, the host traditionally offers them a plate with žito – of which they take a spoon, bread – of which they rip a piece, and wine – of which they drink a sip. After the guests invited for lunch arrived, we sat around the table and the feast began. After the meal, one of the men brought gusle and the men began singing traditional songs to the music. There was a lot of alcohol, food, and music (Ranković, 2003). The whole place held a generally relaxing and optimistic atmosphere. This type of celebration extended long into the night, we went home around one in the morning, and we were not the last guests to