Mongolians have a reputable history of having an open-minded attitude towards all religions. Historical records reveal that there were 12 Buddhist temples, 2 Islamic mosques, and a Christian church In the capital city of the Great Mongol Empire Karakorum and in, under the rule of Munkh Khaan, the grandson of Chinggis Khaan the first-ever inter-religion theoretical debate was held in 1254. They even legalized religious freedom in the “Ikh Zasag” law.

SHAMANISM

Shamanism, one of the oldest religious beliefs still exists among Mongolians today in a close relationship with an original ideology that values an existence congruent with nature and Tengrism (the belief to worship the sky). Tengrists believe the sky, earth, nature, and spirits of their ancestors guard and bless all people. Therefore, they aspire not to disturb the ecological balance, and live a sacred life, cultivating their spirituality, valor, and intellectual powers.
Costumes and ceremonies of shamanism are truly astounding. It is believed Mongolian shamans’ guardian spirits remain in their costumes, which have specific traditional ways of being made and worn. Mongolian Shamans differ slightly between each ethnic groups. It is noteworthy that some practices of shamanism have been adopted by Mongolian Buddhism and have created a symbiosis
throughout the history.

Mongolian shamans are considered powerful because their practice is deeply rooted in the country’s ancient spiritual traditions. Shamanism in Mongolia is an indigenous belief system that connects with both the natural world and the spiritual world of ancestors, creating a unique blend of energies. Here are a few reasons why Mongolian shamans are viewed as powerful:

Connection to Nature

  • Mongolian shamans often work with the natural forces of the land, including the earth, sky, rivers, mountains, and animals. They believe that nature holds powerful spiritual energies that can be harnessed for healing and guidance.
  • This close relationship with nature allows shamans to channel these natural energies to help individuals find balance, gain strength, and resolve conflicts or illness.

Spiritual Power from Ancestors

  • Mongolian shamanism places great emphasis on the power of ancestors. Shamans believe that the spirits of their forebears, including those of revered leaders, warriors, and healers, continue to guide and influence the living.
  • By invoking ancestral spirits, shamans can gain wisdom and support to address challenges or provide spiritual healing to individuals or communities. This connection is seen as a source of immense power.

Role as Mediators Between Worlds

  • Shamans in Mongolia serve as mediators between the physical world and the spirit world. They are believed to have the ability to travel between these realms during ceremonies or spiritual journeys, seeking answers, healing, or wisdom from both ancestors and spirits of nature.
  • This dual connection — both to the natural world and to ancestral spirits — is what gives Mongolian shamans their distinctive and revered status.

Healing and Protection

  • Shamans in Mongolia are often seen as healers who use their spiritual powers to cure physical or mental ailments. They perform rituals, offer guidance, and help individuals to restore balance in their lives.
  • Additionally, they are believed to offer protection from harmful spirits and negative energies, using rituals and sacred objects to keep individuals and communities safe.

Cultural Legacy

  • Shamanism in Mongolia is an ancient practice that has survived centuries of political and religious changes. Despite modern influences, the spiritual traditions of the shamans are still deeply respected and integrated into Mongolian culture.
  • The preservation of these traditions through generations, combined with the belief in the strength of their ancestors, contributes to the sense of power that Mongolian shamans hold.

The power of Mongolian shamans comes from their unique ability to combine the natural forces with the ancestral wisdom passed down through generations. This powerful combination enables them to navigate and influence both the physical and spiritual worlds.

BUDDHISM

Buddhism has played a pivotal role in the spiritual, cultural, and historical development of Mongolia. Although it first arrived in Mongolia as early as the 2nd century BC, it wasn’t until the 16th century that Buddhism became widespread and firmly established as the dominant religion. The High Saint Zanabazar (Undur Gegeen Zanabazar), a revered spiritual leader, is credited with spreading Buddhism throughout Mongolia, and his influence remains deeply embedded in the country’s Buddhist traditions.

Historical Background and Development

  • Early Introduction: Buddhism made its first appearances in Mongolia long before the arrival of Tibetan Buddhism. However, it was only in the 16th century that it became a central part of Mongolian life. Zanabazar, known as the historic enlightener of Mongolia, played a major role in solidifying Buddhism’s place in Mongolian culture.
  • The Golden Era: The 17th century marks the peak period of Buddhism in Mongolia, known as the “Golden Era.” During this time, nomadic and Buddhist schools of medicine were brought together, leading to significant advancements in Mongolian medicine. This era also saw the establishment of many monasteries and temples, which became centers of learning and spiritual practice. Mongolian Buddhism reached a level of integration with nomadic traditions, creating a unique blend of religious and cultural practices.
  • Suppression Under Communist Rule: Buddhism, like many other religious traditions, suffered severe repression during the Soviet-influenced communist regime. Thousands of monks were executed, and many monasteries were destroyed. Despite these hardships, the legacy of Buddhism remained strong in the cultural consciousness of the Mongolian people.

Buddhism in Contemporary Mongolia

  • Modern Revival: Since Mongolia’s transition to democracy in 1990, there has been a remarkable resurgence of Buddhism. The fall of the communist regime allowed for religious freedom, and many of the monasteries and temples that were destroyed during the Soviet era have been rebuilt. The Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, the capital, is one of the most significant and vibrant centers of Buddhist practice in Mongolia.
  • Unique Characteristics of Mongolian Buddhism: Mongolian Buddhism has developed its own distinct characteristics, influenced by both Tibetan Buddhism and nomadic traditions. The ritual instruments, methods for making statues of gods, and the composition of chants in Mongolia set it apart from other Buddhist countries. For example, Mongolian mantras are styled differently from Tibetan mantras, and their harmonies often resemble Mongolian folk songs, with beautiful melodies that reflect the country’s deep connection to its cultural heritage.
  • Buddhism and the Nomadic Tradition: The integration of nomadic culture with Buddhism has also given rise to unique practices and beliefs in Mongolia. Buddhist medicine and shamanistic practices were historically intertwined, and Mongolian Buddhism today retains influences from both. This melding of traditions has led to a unique spiritual system that blends nomadic wisdom with Buddhist philosophy.

Religious Tolerance and Spiritual Openness

  • Tolerance and Respect for Wisdom: Modern Mongolians are known for their great religious tolerance, which may stem from their deep respect for knowledge and wisdom. Mongolians tend to view religions and spiritual beliefs not as exclusive systems but as sources of wisdom. They believe that different traditions offer valuable insights, and they often find common ground between Buddhism and other spiritual practices. This respect for all forms of wisdom contributes to Mongolia’s openness toward various religious and philosophical ideas.
  • Religious Pluralism: This spiritual openness means that Buddhism coexists harmoniously with other traditions such as shamanism and Christianity, each finding its place within the Mongolian spiritual landscape. Buddhism in Mongolia is not just a religion; it is a cultural and spiritual identity that unites the people across different regions, classes, and even belief systems.

Buddhism’s Influence on National Identity

  • Cultural Integration: Buddhism continues to be a key element of Mongolian national identity. The celebration of Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year), for example, includes Buddhist rituals for prayer and offerings. Additionally, Buddhist values such as compassion, wisdom, and mindfulness resonate deeply with the Mongolian people, influencing both personal conduct and national policies.
  • Environmental and Ethical Principles: Many Mongolians view Buddhist teachings as a guide for ethical behavior and as a way to foster a deeper connection with nature, which is a fundamental aspect of the nomadic lifestyle. Buddhist ideas of balance and harmony align with the traditional Mongolian respect for the land and natural resources.

Buddhism today in Mongolia is a revived and integral part of the nation’s cultural, spiritual, and social fabric. While rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, it has evolved in a way that reflects Mongolia’s unique nomadic heritage, creating a distinctive spiritual tradition. The resilience of Buddhism, despite historical hardships, and its ability to adapt to modern life demonstrate its enduring influence in Mongolia. Mongolians continue to embrace Buddhism not only as a religion but also as a symbol of national identity and wisdom, contributing to the country’s rich and dynamic spiritual landscape.