Re: Odp: IE Lithuanian-Mediterranean connections

I should not have been sure about the trade roads with China. I found out that they were buying amber from Burma. But Russian and Iranian share similar words from the times when they, supposedly, belonged to related Arian tribes. I have a Persian friend, and I am always stunned about some examples. She also told me that we came from the same stock then split up geographically. I cannot testify about it without proof now. I am, unsuccessfully, so far, trying to find a book by Russian scholar that I read 15 years ago " The Source of Russian Paganism", where he described the name of the gods(Agni- god of fire in R.P.), the folk traditions( spinning the wheel in spring Equinox) etc. I will try my best to locate it. I believe it was published in France but in Russian. AK

----- Original Message -----

From: Sergejus Tarasovas

To: cybalist@eGroups.com

Sent: Friday, March 03, 2000 12:12 PM

Subject: [cybalist] Re: Odp: IE Lithuanian-Mediterranean connections

> From: Adriana Kamenetsky [mailto:adrianakusa@...]
> Sent: Friday, March 03, 2000 2:26 AM
> To: cybalist@eGroups.com
> Subject: [cybalist] Re: Odp: IE Lithuanian-Mediterranean connections
>
>
> Hello,
>
> I wander how amber translates in Chinese since, in ancient times, the
> Chinese used to burn amber for its fragrance during ceremonies. I am sure
> they were buying it from Russia. And Russian paganism has strong roots in
> Buddism. I think it should be translated as 'a stone burning
> white(flame)'.
> AK

As for my translation of Russian kamen' bel-goriuch, a regular amber's periphrasis in folklore as well as in old written tradition, I would not insist on my translation, as to give the correct one I at least have to explain this construction, rather unusual even for Russian ear, to myself. But I cannot.

Both your statements are very interesting. Why are you sure the Chinese imported amber from Russia (and what is ancient times?) and what makes you think Russian paganism has strong roots in Buddism? No one can argue against strong Iranian influence, but Buddhism... Would you comment this?

Sergei

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