Images of Birds in Mordvinian Mythology

The article focuses on various functions of birds appearing as anindispensable element of the mythological system. First of all, their role is underlined in the cosmogonic and anthropogonic act. The most archaic is the image of the Great Bird, the creator of the world and man (among Mordvinians-Erzians). Mention is made about the role of prophetic birds and their use in the capacity of sacrifice and rituals. Gods and deities presented themselves in images of different birds (duck, eagle, pigeon, swan, swallows etc.). Some comparisons with other Finno-Ugric ethnoses (Mari, Komi etc.) are given.