Comparative analysis of lexical units as a tool for studying cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the works of N. A. Berdyaev

Ma Lin' ORCID: 0009-0004-2090-4880 Postgraduate student; Department of Russian Language and Teaching Methods; Peoples' Friendship University of Russia 6 Miklukho-Maklaya str., Moscow, 117198 LinMa2025@yandex.ru

Introduction

In the context of the intensive interaction of diverse cultures and languages, there is a need for a deep understanding of how language reflects and shapes cultural identities. Nikolai Alexandrovich is one of the most significant representatives of the Russian philosophical tradition, who actively explored issues of national identity and cultural identity. Berdyaev (whose works, full of original concepts and deep reflections on man, freedom and the spirit ^[1-4], provide rich material for scientific research).

Of great interest is the philosopher's approach to understanding language as a tool not only for communication, but also for expressing deep cultural experience ^[5]. At the same time, language appears to be a living organism that not only displays, but also shapes thinking and perception of the world (i.e., language not only transmits any information, but also creates a certain semantic context that affects a person's understanding of himself and the surrounding reality). Based on this, the problem of studying lexical units used in the works of N. A. Berdyaev as a tool for studying cultural and linguistic sovereignty (which is defined as the ability of culture and language to preserve its uniqueness and identity in the context of global interaction and influence from other cultures and languages ^[6]) is actualized. In this sense, lexical units are considered as carriers of cultural meanings and codes. Their analysis will reveal the unique features of the Russian language and thinking, as well as trace the influence of N. A. Berdyaev's philosophical tradition on the formation of cultural identities in modern conditions. Thus, the relevance of the research topic lies in its ability to reveal the specifics of lexical units as a tool for studying cultural and linguistic sovereignty, as well as in the applicability of the results obtained to solve the most important scientific and practical problems related to the preservation of culture and language in modern conditions.

Russian Russian Idea: The main Problems of Russian Thought in the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century ^[1], Self-knowledge: The Experience of Philosophical Autobiography ^[1], etc.], etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc., etc.2], "The Fate of Russia: Experiments on the psychology of war and nationality" ^[3] and "Philosophy of Freedom" ^[4] (which served as the material of this study). To achieve the above-mentioned goal, it is necessary to solve the following tasks:

1) to analyze the lexical units used in the works of N. A. Berdyaev in order to identify their cultural meanings and codes that reflect the cultural and linguistic sovereignty and philosophical views of the author.;

2) classify the identified lexical elements into thematic categories in order to trace their connection with the key concepts and ideas presented in the philosopher's works.;

3) to study the influence of the cultural and linguistic context of N. A. Berdyaev's works on the formation of lexical units, as well as on their significance within the framework of the Russian philosophical tradition.

The novelty of the research is due to the fact that for the first time, within the framework of the analysis of N. A. Berdyaev's work, the systematization of lexical units reflecting cultural and linguistic sovereignty is carried out, with an emphasis on their influence on the formation of national philosophical and cultural identity. Based on this, the theoretical significance is determined by the fact that the approach to the classification of lexical units developed during the research not only enriches existing theoretical knowledge, but also opens up new horizons for understanding the role of language in the formation of cultural identity. The practical significance lies in the fact that the results of the research can be used to develop methodological recommendations in the field of teaching philosophy and cultural studies, and can also become the basis for subsequent philological research aimed at studying the interaction of language and culture in different historical and social contexts. Accordingly, specific recommendations imply the inclusion of the results obtained in:

– scientific papers detailing the principles of systematization of lexical units with examples of their use in the texts of N. A. Berdyaev;

– educational programs and courses that focus on lexical units reflecting cultural and linguistic sovereignty;

– methodological recommendations for teachers aimed at using the identified lexical units in the educational process;

– research in related fields that reveal the specifics of the influence of language on various aspects of cultural identity, which is very relevant for both philologists and sociologists, cultural scientists and philosophers.

Within the framework of this work, various research methods were used, including comparative analysis, contextual analysis and text interpretation. In particular, comparative analysis made it possible to compare various lexical units used in various linguistic and cultural contexts, identify their similarities and differences, and analyze how different linguistic constructions can influence the perception of cultural meanings and codes. Contextual analysis made it possible to identify the influence of social, historical and cultural factors on the formation of the meanings of words and expressions, as well as to understand how context can influence the interpretation of texts. The method of interpretation provided an analysis of lexical units that form a cultural context and create semantic connections that determine the identity and perception of N. A. Berdyaev's philosophical ideas. In addition, classification and systematization methods were used in the work, which made it possible to organize the collected data and identify key groups of lexical units due to their semantic and functional specifics.

Thus, all of the above determines the need to use an integrated approach to the study of the interaction of language and culture, as well as to identify lexical units reflecting the cultural identity and philosophical views of N. A. Berdyaev.

I. Lexical units and their cultural meanings and codes reflecting cultural and linguistic sovereignty and philosophical views of N. A. Berdyaev

Lexical units (as previously noted), being important components of language, not only contribute to the transmission of information, but also carry deep cultural meanings and codes reflecting the peculiarities of worldviews and philosophical systems ^[7]. Within the framework of understanding cultural and linguistic sovereignty and the philosophical views of N. A. Berdyaev in general, these units become bridges between language and culture, allowing us to understand the uniqueness of Russian thought and its contextuality. As an example, we can cite the concept of the Russian soul, which is based on: "natural, pagan Dionysian element" and "ascetic-monastic Orthodoxy" ^{[1, pp. 31-32]}. Russian Russian soul's polarity, according to the philosopher, contained its special specificity, expressed in a combination of passion and humility, freedom and devotion [ibid.], which, in turn, forms the unique character of Russian culture and its linguistic expression. This concept has become a symbol of a deep understanding of Russian identity, reflecting both individual experiences and collective values that have been passed down from generation to generation.

N. A. Berdyaev in his writings paid special attention to the importance of categorization in the process of self-awareness of a person and his spiritual life. In his works, one can see many lexical units that become not just important concepts, but a kind of categories and symbols of deeper cultural and philosophical concepts (we are talking, first of all, about such concepts as freedom, spirit, personality, meaning, creativity, consciousness, homeland, destiny, etc.). For example, the concept of freedom in the context of N. A. Berdyaev's philosophy is not limited to the social or legal aspect: it permeates the entire system of human relations with the world and God, emphasizing inner freedom as the fundamental principle of human existence ^[4]. Russian Russian cultural and linguistic specifics of the concept of freedom in this sense are closely related to Russian traditions and the historical conditions in which Russian thought was formed ^[8]. The philosopher notes that freedom is not absolute and independent of moral and spiritual guidelines: it is "more primary than being." <...> the secret of the world is hidden in freedom" ^{[4, p. 51]}. Freedom implies responsibility to oneself, society, and higher moral laws (while it is presented as an active process of self-awareness and self-realization, which makes it an integral element of the personal growth of a Russian person).

Such lexical units as love, suffering, light, inspiration, truth, faith, etc., which contain a whole layer of associations and cultural coordinates, become of great importance in the philosopher's works, helping to better understand not only the language, but also the soul of the Russian people, their historical fate and spiritual quest. These units are also not just abstract concepts, they serve as carriers of deep cultural symbols reflecting N. A. Berdyaev's philosophical views on the essence of man and his place in the world. For example, the concept of love is considered as the highest value capable of overcoming selfishness and separation, connecting people in their pursuit of truth and beauty. The philosopher emphasizes that true love is a feeling that requires active choice, sacrifice and spiritual growth.: "There is a depth of infinity in the strong emotion of love. <...> Love is a way out of the ordinary, for many people, maybe the only one. But that's the beginning of love. <...> There is infinity in love, but there is also a finiteness that limits this infinity. Love is a breakthrough in the objectified natural and social order. It contains insight into the beauty of another person's face, a vision of a face in God, and victory over ugliness that triumphs in the fallen world" ^{[2, p. 63]}. At the same time, the philosopher emphasizes that love creates a new level of interaction between people, which is of particular importance for the formation of cultural and linguistic sovereignty of the Russian people. In this sense, love becomes both a personal unifying principle and an important social factor that generally shapes the moral foundations of Russian society and defines its cultural guidelines.

Another example is the lexical unit suffering. According to N. A. Berdyaev, suffering is an important stage on the path to self-knowledge and self-realization of a person (this is another key concept that defines the meaning and significance of human existence ^[9]). Suffering is an unavoidable attribute of life that has transformative power: through suffering, a person can gain a true understanding of himself and his place in the world. It serves as a kind of catalyst for personal transformation and profound internal changes. In this context, the philosopher says that it is in suffering that a person can find the truth about himself, others, and God; "the spiritual ascents of mankind in history are based precisely on suffering, on the search for deliverance from evil" ^{[2, p. 211]}. At the same time, suffering is not a punishment, it is an effective way to purify and elevate the soul. This understanding of suffering allows a person to reach a new level of meaningfulness in his life and the world around him.

Such lexical units in the context of cultural meanings and codes are an important tool for understanding and comprehending the deeper aspects of Russian culture and thinking. They emphasize the uniqueness and originality of the Russian language, as well as its ability to convey complex philosophical ideas, thereby forming cultural and linguistic sovereignty. At the same time, lexical units that define collective identity and spiritual values associated with the Orthodox tradition and the Russian national consciousness (conciliarity, community, hesychasm, Christian ecumene, etc.) are of particular importance. Such vocabulary reflects not only the historical context, but also modern realities in which these concepts continue to influence public opinion. consciousness and cultural identity.

II. Classification of lexical elements in the framework of their relation to key concepts and ideas presented in the works of N. A. Berdyaev

The analysis of the research material ^[1-4] allowed us to conditionally identify two groups of lexically units defining collective identity and spiritual values associated with the Orthodox tradition and the Russian national consciousness:

Group 1: lexical components of cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the implicit mental sphere in the texts of N. A. Berdyaev;

Group 2: lexical components of cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the explicit sphere of historical mentality in the texts of N. A. Berdyaev.

Russian Russian cultural identity Each of these groups, in turn, includes various lexical units that reflect the specifics and versatility of Russian cultural identity and the importance of the Orthodox tradition in the context of Russian philosophy and history, in particular.:

1. Lexical components of cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the implicit mental sphere in the texts of N. A. Berdyaev

a) vocabulary of evaluation of Catholicism and Western civilization

In his writings, N. A. Berdyaev actively studied Catholicism and Western civilization as important elements of the cultural background into which the history and philosophy of Russia fit. His criticism of the Western approach to life is often based on the perception of Catholicism as a desire to rationalize and institutionalize faith, which, according to the philosopher, led to the loss of direct connection with the divine, depersonalization and mechanization of human life: all this contradicts the original Russian spirituality, orientation to inner experience and a living sense of faith ^[3]. In order to represent Catholicism and Western civilization in general, N. A. Berdyaev uses in his writings such lexical units as political religion, bad civilization, anti-Christian culture, diabolical morality, spiritual decay, etc., forming a general idea of Western civilization as a kind of negative force that poses a threat to genuine spirituality and culture. Russia;

b) the vocabulary of Russian Orthodoxy, its modification and transition into culturally significant common vocabulary

Russian Russian Orthodoxy The philosopher paid special attention to the reflection on the richness and depth of Russian Orthodoxy, which he considered as the main pillar of Russian spirituality and culture ^[1]. Russian Russian Orthodox vocabulary, used in the works of N. A. Berdyaev, characterizes the uniqueness and originality of the Russian faith: spiritual experience, divine truth, unity with the divine, holiness, spiritual rebirth (such units form the image of Orthodoxy as a religion imbued with deep metaphysical meanings). At the same time, the philosopher defines the evolution of Orthodoxy in Russia through concepts such as hesychasm → conversation with God → praising correctly → folk religion → state religion, i.e. He proceeds from the fact that Orthodoxy in Russia is not a static system of dogmas, but characterizes a living tradition capable of active development and transformation. This includes the transformation of the process of penetration into the very life of Russian society, in particular, by: conciliarity → communitarianism → collectivism, where "conciliarity means a high quality of consciousness, collectivism means an objectifying consolidation of the subconscious, which has always played a huge role in historical manifestations" ^{[10, pp. 73-74]}. In turn, "communitarianism is the spiritual principle of people, community and brotherhood in human relations" [ibid.].

2. Lexical components of cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the explicit sphere of historical mentality in the texts of N. A. Berdyaev

a) vocabulary of Russian explicit culturalism

The vocabulary of this subgroup often presents ideas about culture as a living organism that develops and transforms in response to internal and external influences. In particular, the philosopher emphasized the importance of such concepts as spirituality, Orthodoxy, New European humanism, culture (super culture), and the Christian ecumene (state) (the concept reflects the desire for spiritual unification of all Christians in the name of common faith and love of God ^[11]). Russian Russian culture As a whole, all these concepts are becoming crucial not only for the Russian cultural environment, but also for the formation of the historical mentality of the Russian people. It is important to note that the key to the vocabulary of the Russian explicit is the idea of culture as a means of self-expression and self-awareness. In this case, the philosopher speaks of culture as a creative act. In his opinion, culture only fulfills its purpose "when it is constantly being created, when new cultural values appear, when it comprehends itself and the ways of its development" through creativity, which is always "an addition, an addition, the creation of a new one that has not been in the world" (cit. according to: ^{[12, p. 466]}). At the same time, culture serves not only as a reflection of external reality, but also as an internal process that leads to spiritual rebirth.;

b) vocabulary of Russian Messianism

The lexical units belonging to this subgroup acquire special significance in N. A. Berdyaev's texts, as they reflect a unique philosophical tradition in which Russia is considered as a special God-chosen country. Russian Russian philosophy is reflected in such concepts as the God-bearing people, unity, Russian Messianism, the Russian idea, the mission of Russia, spiritual rebirth, salvation of the world, etc. The philosopher emphasized that the Russian people are endowed with a special spiritual task, which is to preserve and spread higher values by sacrificing themselves ^[3]. These concepts generally reflect the idea that Russia should become an "example" for other nations, playing the role of a spiritual mentor in a world that suffers from materialism and loss of moral guidance. In this context, N. A. Berdyaev speaks about the importance of spiritual purification and returning to the roots, to the Orthodox faith, as a source of strength and inspiration for all mankind.

Accordingly, this classification of lexical elements in the framework of their connection with key concepts and ideas presented in the works of N. A. Berdyaev, in our opinion, is the most comprehensive for understanding cultural and linguistic sovereignty, revealing the deep relationship between the language, culture and national identity of the Russian people.

III. The influence of the cultural and linguistic context of N. A. Berdyaev's works on the formation of lexical units and their meaning within the framework of the Russian philosophical tradition

The cultural and linguistic context in which the philosopher's works were created played a key role in the development of philosophical thought in Russia, providing a unique combination of language, philosophy and culture. This combination made it possible to enrich the language of philosophy, including through the formation of new concepts that have become important within the framework of the Russian philosophical tradition ^[13]. For example, the concepts of the Russian idea, the God-bearing people, and conciliarity began to acquire a deep and ambiguous meaning that went beyond the usual understanding. This is due not only to his philosophical views, but also to the cultural and historical background in which he lived and worked - an era of profound social, political and cultural changes, religious quest and crisis of traditional values. Under these conditions, the philosopher's works have become not just theoretical studies, but important milestones in understanding the whole human existence.

Speaking about the influence of the cultural and linguistic context of N. A. Berdyaev's works on the formation of lexical units, it is important to note that the trends of borrowing vocabulary from both the Russian Orthodox tradition and European philosophical trends (in particular, existentialism, humanism, personalism, etc.) are revealed. This mixture of cultural influences made it possible to enrich the language of the philosopher's works, making it "more expressive and multi-layered" ^{[14, p. 16]}. In particular, the use of religious symbols and allusions to biblical texts in combination with philosophical concepts forms a special linguistic environment in which lexical units begin to carry both literal and metaphorical meanings. N. A. Berdyaev introduces many concepts and terms borrowed from European philosophical traditions, which he adapts to clarify the specifics of Russian spiritual reality. As an example, N. A. Berdyaev's concept of primary irrational freedom, which corresponds to the primary principle preceding God and the world and containing no differentiation (the philosopher borrowed this concept and the whole concept from Jacob Boehme, the German mystical philosopher, who designated this primary principle by the term Ungrund - devoid of foundation, primary chaos). ^[15]. All this gives the philosopher the opportunity to create a unique synthesis of ideas that helps him to better understand not only philosophical concepts, but also the social, cultural and historical processes of his time.

The influence of the cultural and linguistic context is also found in the way N. A. Berdyaev introduces metaphors and symbols borrowed from fiction and folklore into the text. Very often, the philosopher refers to concepts that are familiar to the Russian reader, which helps him to better convey his ideas and concepts. In particular, the use of the concept of conciliarity in his works becomes not only a philosophical, but also a cultural symbol reflecting the desire for unity and community inherent in the Russian soul. Of great interest is the way N. A. Berdyaev builds his arguments using rhetorical techniques typical of Russian literature. The philosopher artfully combines logic and poetry ^[14], which makes his texts intellectually rich and aesthetically appealing.

Accordingly, the influence of the cultural and linguistic context on the formation of lexical units in the philosopher's works can be represented as a dynamic and multifaceted process. It not only expands the boundaries of philosophical language, but also contributes to the creation of a new understanding of traditional concepts, which allows readers to perceive philosophical ideas as a reflection of deep cultural and historical realities (this is especially relevant in light of the complex transformations that took place in Russia in the 20th century).

Conclusion

Thus, having considered the lexical elements that serve as a reflection of cultural and linguistic sovereignty and philosophical views of N. A. Berdyaev, we come to the following conclusions:

Vocabulary reflecting cultural and linguistic sovereignty and the key philosophical views of N. A. Berdyaev, serves as an important tool for understanding and comprehending the deep aspects of culture and thinking of the Russian people. They emphasize the uniqueness and originality of the Russian language, as well as its ability to convey complex philosophical ideas. In the works of the philosopher, important concepts become freedom, creativity, spirituality, personality, etc., which allow not only to take into account and "reveal" the historical context, but also to identify modern realities in which such concepts continue to influence public consciousness and cultural identity.

In accordance with the proposed classification of vocabulary reflecting cultural and linguistic sovereignty, all units used by N. A. Berdyaev were divided into two main groups: the first – lexical units of cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the implicit mental sphere; the second - lexical units of cultural and linguistic sovereignty in the explicit sphere of historical mentality. Russian Russian Orthodoxy (including its modification and transition into culturally significant common vocabulary), the first group included the vocabulary of Catholic and Western civilization assessment, and the vocabulary of Russian Messianism (including its modification and transition into culturally significant common vocabulary), the second group included the vocabulary of Russian explicit culturalism and the vocabulary of Russian Messianism. In our opinion, this classification most fully reflects the specifics of N. A. Berdyaev's language and is comprehensive for understanding cultural and linguistic sovereignty.

Russian Russian philosophical tradition Analysis of the influence of the cultural and linguistic context of N. A. Berdyaev's works on the formation of lexical units, as well as on their significance within the framework of the Russian philosophical tradition, has shown that vocabulary, characterizing cultural and linguistic sovereignty, not only reflects unique aspects of the Russian mentality, but also becomes an important tool for in-depth analysis of social and cultural processes, which It is of paramount importance in understanding Russian cultural identity on a global level.