Mongols - customs & taboos
Introduction to Mongolian Cultural Practices
Previously, we introduced the "Kings of the Grasslands", the Mongols, and their history. Now we look to the cultural norms and taboos of these largely nomadic and remarkably hospitable people.
In the sweeping Mongolian steppes, a land where endless skies meet whispering grasslands, a culture deeply rooted in tradition and history thrives. The Mongolian lifestyle, a fusion of survival, community, and respect for nature, offers a unique insight into the enduring nomadic rhythms.
Travelers are magnetically drawn to Mongolia's blend of nomadism and rich cultural heritage. Here, warm hospitality, sacred rituals, and a profound respect for nature define the daily rhythm, highlighting a society's resilience and harmony with the environment.
As we embark on this journey through Mongolian culture, we delve into the customs, traditions, and sacred practices that shape their society. Each element, from ceremonial greetings to spiritual rituals, reflects the Mongolian spirit's resilience and adaptability.
Navigating this land of eternal skies, we embrace the Mongols' wisdom, their harmonious bond with nature, and the strength of their community and traditions. Join us in exploring and celebrating the cultural treasures of Mongolia, the esteemed "Kings of the Grasslands."
Greetings and Hospitality
The Traditional Mongolian Welcome
When greeting guests or visitors, a Mongol will clasp the visitor's right hand in front of their bosom and say "Ta sai yin bai nu," a warm greeting of 'hello'. After that, it is customary for them to invite the guests into their yurt (a large tent home) for conversation and tea with the family.
The Significance of the Initial Exchange
In the heart of Mongolia, where the horizons stretch far and wide and the air carries the spirit of adventure, the art of greeting and hospitality holds a place of great importance. This initial exchange, simple yet profound, is more than a mere gesture—it is the opening of a door, an invitation into the very soul of Mongolian culture. The gentle clasp of hands, and the warmth of the spoken greeting, each element is a testament to the deep-rooted values of respect, honor, and warmth that are the hallmarks of Mongolian hospitality.
Embracing Mongolian Hospitality as a Traveler
For the traveler venturing into this enchanting land, the experience of Mongolian greetings and hospitality offers a rare glimpse into a world where every interaction is imbued with significance and every meeting is an opportunity to forge lasting connections. It is here, in the warmth of the yurt and the sincerity of the welcome, that the true essence of Mongolia reveals itself, inviting us to learn, to share, and to be a part of the extraordinary tapestry of life on the steppes. As you embark on this journey, embrace the hospitality with an open heart, and let the spirit of Mongolia touch your soul.
Mongolian Hospitality Tradition
Offering Tea
When in a Mongolian nomad's home, the host will begin with the traditional Mongolian etiquette of offering a cup of milk tea. At this time, you should rise and use both hands to receive the cup as it is passed to you, making sure to never use only your left hand, which is very rude in Mongolian culture.
It would be rude to refuse the cup of tea, but you may find that over the course of the time together your host will keep your cup filled and encourage you to keep drinking. Should you find that you have had your fill and do not want any more tea, you can use your spoon to touch the spout of the kettle and the host will understand your meaning. After the tea and rousing conversation, the family will probably treat you to a feast with delicious local fare and often much mutton, the best they have to offer - sure to satisfy any appetite.
Offering A Toast
Drinking wine and offering toasts are huge parts of hosting in Mongolian culture because Mongols believe that wine is one of the most important parts of the meal. Toasts will be used to express their respect and affection for the guests and for each other. Usually, they will put the wine in a silver or gold bowl and give it to the guest with a white hada. Whether you prefer to drink alcohol or not, you should not refuse the gesture, which would be a sign that you are not sincere in your intentions.
The Tradition of Singing
Mongol culture loves to use song to express ideas, and singing always goes hand-in-hand with toasting. Most often, one person or a group of people will sing one song and then make a toast. After toasting, they will sing again or pass the responsibility to the next part, which makes their dinners raucous and joyful. This tradition of singing songs is carried over from ancient times, which shows just how important hospitality and entertainment are in Mongol culture.
Traditional Mongolian Living
The Yurt - A Symbol of Home and Hearth
In the sweeping landscapes of Mongolia, the yurt stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its people. Known locally as a 'ger', the traditional Mongolian yurt is not just a dwelling; it's a symbol of the nomadic spirit, harmoniously blending with the vast and untamed nature.
The structure of the yurt is a marvel of architectural genius, designed to withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the steppes. Its circular shape and the lattice framework, known as 'khana', provide stability against the winds, while the felt covering, made from the wool of their livestock, offers insulation against the cold in winter and keeps the interior cool during the summer months. The crown of the yurt, or the 'toono', is its central skylight, allowing daylight to pour in, and facilitating ventilation.
But the yurt is more than its physical structure; it is the heart of family life. Its interior, though modest in size, is rich in symbolism and functionality. The space is meticulously organized, with areas designated for cooking, sleeping, and receiving guests, reflecting the values of hospitality, respect, and family unity that are central to Mongolian culture.
Nomadic Lifestyle
The nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols is not merely a choice; it is a tradition, honed and perfected over centuries, allowing them to thrive in the vast, open landscapes that are characteristic of Mongolia. This lifestyle is deeply intertwined with the rhythms of nature, with the movements of the nomads often dictated by the needs of their livestock, the seasons, and the availability of resources.
Being nomadic entails a profound understanding and respect for the land. The Mongols move their yurts and herds across the grasslands, ensuring that the terrain is not overgrazed and that the natural balance is maintained. This lifestyle fosters a strong sense of community and interdependence, as families often move together and share resources, knowledge, and traditions.
The impact of this nomadic culture extends beyond the practicalities of daily life; it shapes the worldview, values, and social structures of the Mongols. There is a deep-seated respect for the environment, a sense of freedom and mobility, and an understanding of the importance of community and mutual support.
Traditional Mongolian living, with the yurt as its emblem and nomadism as its pulse, offers a window into a way of life that is both ancient and remarkably adaptive. It speaks of people who have mastered the art of living in harmony with nature, honoring the traditions of their ancestors while embracing the challenges and changes of the modern world.
Worshiping the Deities
The Spiritual Legacy of Tibetan Buddhism
Mongols have a long tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, dating back to the ruling Khans, and the spirits in their pantheon are sometimes worshipped during ritual banquets. Mongols revere seven deities (or sources of power), including Heaven, Earth, Buddha, Ghosts, Mountains, Water, and the Emperor. During these banquets, they will always divide all the mutton into seven parts and offer some to each deity.
Celebrating Life and the Cosmos
This deep-seated spiritual practice reflects the Mongolian reverence for the natural world and the forces that govern it. It's not just a religious act; it's a celebration of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. For the Mongols, worshiping these deities is a way of acknowledging the balance and harmony of the universe and expressing gratitude for the blessings they receive.
The Ritual Banquets: A Communion of the Sacred and the Communal
The ritual banquets, often held under the expansive Mongolian sky or within the cozy confines of a yurt, are vibrant and soulful gatherings. Here, the rhythmic chants of Buddhist prayers blend with the rich aromas of the feast, creating an ambiance that is both sacred and profoundly communal. As the mutton is divided and offered, it symbolizes the Mongols' desire for harmony and prosperity, not just for themselves but for all beings.
A Tapestry of Cultural Expressions
These banquets are a tapestry of colors, sounds, and emotions, each element meticulously woven to honor the revered deities. The participants, dressed in traditional attire, bring not just the offerings of food but also their songs, their stories, and their prayers, contributing to the collective spirit of reverence and celebration.
The Traveler's Journey into Mongolian Spirituality
For the traveler fortunate enough to witness or partake in these ritual banquets, it's an opportunity to immerse in the spiritual depth of Mongolian culture. It's a moment to understand the profound respect the Mongols have for the forces of nature and the spiritual entities that guide their lives. More than a religious ceremony, it's a profound expression of cultural identity, a testament to the enduring spirituality that has shaped the Mongolian way of life for centuries. As you sit among the Mongols, sharing in this sacred tradition, you're not just a guest; you're part of a timeless ritual that transcends the boundaries of culture and faith, connecting you to the ancient rhythms of the Mongolian soul.
Understanding and Respecting Taboos
In addition to graciously accepting all Mongolian offers of hospitality, when you are in a Mongolian home it is also important to respect the host by sitting cross-legged on the carpet around the stove, a place of familiarity and inclusion. Since water is regarded as a pure spirit in the Mongols' minds, and one should not wash dirty things or women's clothing in rivers, and Mongols also worship fire as a deity who drives away evil, so no one should dry wet feet or shoes over the fire or throw trash into the stove.
Respecting the Hearth
The Mongolian hearth, or stove, is the heart of the home, a sacred space that embodies the spirit of family and community. Sitting cross-legged around the stove is more than a seating arrangement; it's a gesture of unity and respect. Visitors need to adopt this posture, not only to show respect for their hosts but also to partake in the age-old traditions of Mongolian hospitality. This position, close to the earth and the fire, symbolizes a connection with the host family and a willingness to share in their way of life.
Reverence for Water
For the Mongols, water is not merely a resource; it is a sacred element, revered for its purity and life-giving properties. The act of refraining from polluting the water by washing dirty items or women's clothing in the rivers is a mark of respect for this sacred spirit. It's a practice that speaks volumes about the Mongolian ethos of living in harmony with nature, honoring its gifts, and preserving its purity for generations to come. Travelers should be mindful of this profound respect for water and adhere to local customs, ensuring that their presence supports the preservation of this vital natural resource.
Honoring the Fire Deity
Fire, in Mongolian tradition, is not just a source of warmth or a means to cook food; it is a deity, revered for its power to drive away evil and protect the family. The practices associated with the fire—avoiding drying wet feet or shoes over it, or refraining from throwing trash into the stove—are rooted in this deep spiritual reverence. These customs underscore the Mongolian understanding of fire's sacredness and the need to maintain its purity and sanctity. As a visitor, respecting these practices is crucial, as it demonstrates an understanding of Mongolian beliefs and an appreciation for their spiritual traditions.
In understanding and respecting these taboos, visitors not only navigate Mongolian culture with sensitivity and awareness but also gain a deeper insight into the profound connection between the Mongolian people and the natural world. It's a journey of cultural immersion that goes beyond the surface, offering a glimpse into the soul of Mongolia and the timeless traditions that define this land and its people.
Thank you for reading, make sure to check back for our blog on the wedding customs of the Mongols. If you have questions or comments, please email info@windhorsetour.com.