The Representation of Family Values and Gender Relations in Balochi Proverbs

Proverbs represent the ethnic culture of any society, and by reflecting on them, a deeper and clearer picture of that society can be achieved. In this regard, the aim of the present study was to compile and interpret a set of Balochi proverbs related to the values, beliefs and convictions of the Baloch people in the field of family and in particular gender relations. For this purpose, two methods of library and field studies have been used. We have also used an interpretive approach to analyze the research materials. The analysis of proverbs collected in this field, shows seven central categories: 1) Sovereignty and continuity of the patrilineal and patriarchal system; 2) Ethnocentric kinship and continuity of tribal structure; 3) Sanctifying and honoring the role of parents in the education and socialization of children; 4) Hospitality and the responsible social communication; 5) Respect to the elderly; 6) Emphasis on the importance of motherhood; 7) Looking at women in the shadow of men. Overall, the research findings show that among the Baloch people, due to the lack of widespread Balochi written language, popular literature and especially proverbs have a significant role in socialization, generational education, intergenerational transmission, identification, reproduction and strengthening of kinship and gender values; and in this sense, it is one of the cultural tools for preserving and perpetuating the identity and culture of the Baloch people.