Mongolian religion & beliefs

Mongolia is a country with a rich history and diverse beliefs. Understanding the interplay of beliefs – from Buddhism and Shamanism to Islam and secular views – offers profound insights into the culture and the daily lives of its people.

The Spiritual Landscape

Mongolia is a secular state with freedom of religion constitutionally guaranteed. While statistics vary, the main influences on the country's spiritual identity are:

1.     Tibetan Buddhism: The most widely practiced religion.

2.     Mongolian Shamanism (Tengrism): Ancient indigenous beliefs, often practiced alongside or blended with Buddhism.

3.     Islam: Predominantly practiced by the ethnic Kazakh minority in western Mongolia.

4.     Non-Religious/Atheist: A significant portion of the population identifies as non-religious, partly influenced by the country's 20th-century socialist period.

5.     Christianity: A smaller but growing presence, primarily since the 1990s.

Tibetan Buddhism

The Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism has been influential in Mongolia for centuries, truly taking root and spreading widely from the 16th century onwards. Buddhism faced severe suppression during the socialist era (roughly 1924-1990), with widespread destruction of monasteries and persecution of monks. Since 1990, there has been a remarkable revival, with monasteries reopening, religious practices becoming open again, and Buddhism reclaiming its central role in Mongolian cultural identity.

Ancient Roots: Mongolian Shamanism (Tengrism)

Predating Buddhism, Mongolian Shamanism represents the indigenous spiritual traditions of the region. Deep respect for Tenger (the Eternal Blue Sky), Etügen (Mother Earth), and spirits residing in mountains, rivers, trees, and animals. Like Buddhism, Shamanism was suppressed but never fully extinguished. It has also seen a strong resurgence since 1990, with people openly practicing shamanic rituals and seeking guidance from shamans (boo, and udgans).

Other religions

• Islam: Primarily practiced by the ethnic Kazakh community in Bayan-Ölgii province in western Mongolia. You'll see mosques here, and Islamic traditions are central to Kazakh cultural identity, visible in events like the famous Golden Eagle Festival.
• Christianity: Various denominations gained a foothold after 1990. While still a minority religion, churches can be found, mostly in Ulaanbaatar and other urban centers.

Respectful Observation: Tips for Travelers

When visiting religious sites or observing practices, keep these tips in mind:

• Dress Modestly: When entering monasteries or temples, ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Remove hats.
• Respect Sacred Space: Walk clockwise around stupas, monasteries, and ovoo. Do not touch or move offerings or ritual items. Avoid making loud noises.
• Ovoo Etiquette: If you wish to participate at an ovoo, observe locals. Generally, you can pick up a stone from the base, walk around clockwise three times, and add your stone to the pile. Leaving small, appropriate offerings (like rice or milk, not money or trash) might be done, but it's best to just observe if unsure.

Mongolia’s spiritual landscape mixes ancient traditions with modern life. If you approach it with curiosity and respect, you will gain a deeper understanding of this unique country.