Learning a new language is an immersion not only in the grammar and vocabulary but also in the culture and history of the people who speak it. Azerbaijani, like other languages, has a rich collection of historical terms and phrases that provide a glimpse into the nation’s past and traditions. Here are some terms and phrases from Azerbaijani history that may interest language learners.

Şərqşünaslıq
Şərqşünaslıq translates to “Oriental studies” in English. It is the academic field of study that embraces Near Eastern and Far Eastern societies and cultures, languages, peoples, history, and archaeology; in recent years the subject has often been turned towards the study of the Middle Eastern and Asian cultures.

Ali məktəbdə Şərqşünaslıq üzrə ixtisaslaşmaq istəyir.

Bayraqdar
The word Bayraqdar means “standard-bearer” or the person who carries the flag, especially in a military context. This role was significant in historical battles, as the standard-bearer’s morale was crucial to the army’s spirits.

Orta əsrlərdə bayraqdar böyük bir şərəf və məsuliyyət daşıyırdı.

Dövlətçilik
Dövlətçilik can be defined as “statecraft” or the art of governing a state. It typically refers to the traditions and practices of governance and the skills required to manage a state’s affairs effectively.

Qədim dövrlərdə sərkərdələr dövlətçilik sanatına məhir olmalı idilər.

Alim
Historically an Alim was a learned person or scholar, particularly in religious and philosophical matters. In modern usage, it can refer to any scholar or scientist, but it still retains its original respect and honorific sense.

O, böyük bir alimdir və onun əsərləri dünyanı dəyişdi.

Qanun
Qanun means “law” in Azerbaijani and has historically referred to various legal codes and regulations. These could range from state laws to moral codes upheld within society.

Əsrlər boyu xalqın ədaləti qanun vasitəsilə təmin edilmişdir.

Yallı
Yallı is a traditional Azerbaijani group dance that is characterized by its lively tempo and spirited movements. It holds an essential place in Azerbaijani culture and is often performed at celebrations and festivals.

Bayramda kənd meydanında yallı oynadıq.

Yurd
Yurd means “homeland” or “native land” in Azerbaijani. It evokes a sense of belonging and affection for one’s country and is a term often used in a patriotic context.

Şairin şeirlərində vətən həsrəti, yurd sevgisi hiss olunur.

İstiqlal
İstiqlal translates to “independence”. It is a significant term in the history of Azerbaijan, particularly relevant to the country’s struggle and success in gaining independence after the fall of the Soviet Union.

Azerbaijan 1991-ci ildə öz istiqlalını qazandı.

Ağsaqqal
An Ağsaqqal is an elder and respected member of the community, often someone who is consulted for advice and acts as a mediator in disputes due to their wisdom and experience.

Kəndin ağsaqqalları toplantı təşkil etdilər və barışıq yolu tapdılar.

It is crucial to understand that these words are not merely vocabulary but represent a connection to the Azerbaijani past. They encapsulate key concepts, values, and traditions that have shaped the nation’s identity. As language learners, delving into such historical terms and phrases can greatly enhance our understanding of the cultural context and grant us a deeper appreciation for the language we strive to learn.