ühendluseks

Uhendluseks is a term used in Estonia and refers to the first and most crucial step in the Estonian matrilineal family tree system. It is a family's o Deadline, or the point in time when it is decided which family branch will be knitted in.

According to the Estonian tradition, every family has a specific deadline in mind when deciding which family member will be tied to the family tree. This decision is often made without registering it with the local authorities which is unusual as most law changes lead to changes in family law. As a result, Uhendluseks is an unofficial concept that isn't recognized by the state. However, it remains a significant part of the traditional family practice in Estonia.

When a child reaches the age of thirteen, the option for ties to him to be attached to his own family tree instead of their own existing family. The decision is made by the local council as a collective group, They choose the family line which is believed to be most beneficial to them. No further steps have to be followed after that. Accounting for Uhendluseks is shrouded in mystery as detailed records are not kept and documents kept in each household are incomplete and passed down through generations.

This family practice dates back to Scandinavia, with neighboring countries practicing their own take on Uhendluseks which varies from family to family and are unique to each local community. Despite not being officially recognized, Uhendluseks continues to be an integral part of traditional Estonian family culture.