Fire is the most important element that has played a role in the evolution of human nature and society for a long time. Its importance in the lives of the ancient tribes is unquestionable. Many rituals, customs, and celebrations of various nations of the world are completely associated with this element. In a descriptive-analytical paradigm and relying on the observational data, face-to-face interviews, and cultural content analysis, the present study aims to explain and analyze the cultural and religious functions of fire in the oral culture of the people in Satveh village in Shahroud city. In this regard, the symbolic manifestations of fire in the dialectical words, proverbs, allusions, and popular beliefs of Satveh people have been identified, studied, and analyzed. The result of the study shows that fire, as a sacred phenomenon, plays a role in the cultural horizon, and besides the four elements in the world, there is a cultural presence in the beliefs of the people of Satveh village. Combining the Iranian ancient beliefs with the Islamic ideas has set fire in a sublime and spiritual position in beliefs of these people. Fire is a symbol of light, divinity, and truth. On the contrary, the demonic symbols are highlighted with creatures such as "black dog", which is a symbol of darkness, devil, and iniquity.

Keywords: Symbolism, fire symbols, black dog, cultural studies, Satveh village, folklore.

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