Since times immemorial, Circassians have belonged to tribes and clans, with each tribe having a chieftian who would come from a well-established family and be known for his wisdom, far-sightedness and generosity; he would be known as "Besh". Circassian Customs And Traditions The Circassian system of government for many generations certainly before governments existed - was similar to the rule of notables. Each tribe is divided into smaller groups. At the head of each group stood a chief lower in rank than the "Besh", known as "Lava Lash". Those get lower in rank were called "Warq".

These were similar to administrative officers, responsible for solving tribal problems. There was also a supreme council authorised to look into general affairs such as the declaration of war and trying any chieftain who deviated from or violated customs and traditions. This was known as "Adigha Khabza".
This council consisted of members representing tribes; one member per tribe. Circassians have had their own unwritten constitution since the very old days.

This "Adigha Khabza" is a constitution that cannot be altered or amended. It is respected by all parties. The founder of this constitution is not known, The famous Circassian wiseman Kazan Yaqua Gibagha, who lived during the era of Peter the Great, had amended the constitution and laid down all the rules of society and the methods of domestic education befitting the teachings of Islam, after the Circassians had already adopted it. The provisions of this constitution are still inherited from generation to generation; it is adhered to by all Circassians. Those customs and traditions are considered sacred, and any violation by a chieftain of them is sufficient to remove him from his post and cause him to be punished too. Circassians are a democratic people. The chieftain cannot make a decision in any public issue without consulting the public, thus implying a respect for the value of the individual. Whenever a public meeting is held the eldest of the group presides over the meeting, even if he is socially inferior.

Among the Circassian customs that cannot be ignored is that of yielding total obedience to parents as well as to chieftains. This is an undisputable issue even if the chieftain is wrong.

Circassian young people, regardless of their education, rank or knowledge, respect their elderly, even if they are illiterate and uneducated, and regardless of their social status. On their part, the elderly respect the young, avoid humiliating them, and are assiduous in giving them advice. There is a Circassian proverb intended for young people that says: "Preserve your youth and respect your elderly". This proverb is respected whenever the young and the elderly meet on any occasion. Circassians are known to be good hosts and their generosity exceeds all limits. If a guest appreciates anything like a weapon or a horse, owned by the host, he will be obliged to take it, regardless of what is or how much it is worth.

Circassians are known for co-operation among themselves. If a farmer is unable to till his land for any reason, his farmer colleagues would do it for him. If someone is unable to build his house, the rest will come to help and finish the house.

Circassians consider it shameful to see a woman, even a stranger, cutting wood or pulling water, without rushing to help by cutting her wood themselves or pulling her water bucket. Woman enjoys a high status among Circassians: They respect her, seek her advice, and make her lead in social functions. It is rare for a young man to get engaged to a girl before knowing her mother.

Another proverb says: "You have to know the mother before you get engaged to the girl".

Circassians have the freedom to associate with girls at their homes and within society and dancing parties. The atmosphere between the two sexes is harmonious, characterised by total understanding and the free exchange of views.
A Circassian young man may marry any girl, provided they are in love. The parents have no jurisdiction over their daughter when she chooses to marry. Parents may provide advice if they do not approve of the marriage.

In rare cases when the father or brother of the girl does not approve of her marriage to certain person, the girl usually elopes with her husband-to-be, who moves her to the home of one of his friends for the completion of the marriage ceremony. This kind of marriage is known to Circassians as "elopement". In reality it is not so because the word "Kwasa" was erroneously translated into Arabic as "elopement" while its correct meaning is "sneaking voluntarily". The girl's consent in marriage is essential according to Islamic law.

Dowries among Circassians are very small, such as a weapon or a horse. During the marriage ceremony, Circassians offer some sweets or soft drinks. But it is the duty of the husband to provide the furniture for the house and the needs of the bride in accordance with his financial capability and social status.

A Circassian proverb says: "At times of flood, river stones collide".
Spouses may differ but they seldom divorce. Bigamy is almost non- existent except in a very few cases - for example if the wife is sterile. In this case the wife chooses the second wife for her husband. She gives her full approval.

Editor note: This information is from The Circassians (Written by Muhammed Kheir Haghandoga)