Mongolian Customs and Superstitions

Mongolian Customs and Superstitions

Mongolians traditionally were afraid of misfortunes and believe in a variety of good and bad omens. Misfortune might be attracted by talking about negative things, or by persons that are often talked about. They might also be sent by some malicious shaman or enraged by breaking some taboo, like stepping on a yurt's threshold, desecrating waters or mountains, etc. The most vulnerable family members are children. That is why they would sometimes be given non-names like Negril (Mongolian: without name) or Enebish (Mongolian: not this one), or boys would be dressed up as girls. Before going out at night, young children's foreheads are sometimes painted with charcoal or soot in order to deceive evil spirits that this is not a child but a rabbit with black hair on the forehead. When passing ovoid on a journey, they are often circled, and some sweets or the like are sacrificed, in order to have a further safe trip. Certain ovoos, especially those on high mountains, are also sacrificed to in order to obtain good weather, ward off misfortune and the like. For a child, the first big celebration is the first haircut, usually at an age between three and five. Birthdays were not celebrated in the old times, but these days, birthday parties are popular. Wedding ceremonies traditionally include the hand-over of a new ger to the marrying couple. Deceased relatives were usually put to rest in the open, where the corpses would be eaten by animals and birds. Nowadays, corpses are usually buried. Mongolian’s world outlook, persuasion, life styles, education methods and other national values reflected through the custom. The custom’s function in rule of conduct in the society and regulation of people’s relations is important. Mongolian’s custom is a great cultural and historical achievement and Chinggis Khaan’s “Great Yasa” code, shamanism and influence of nomadic existence was reflected to the custom. Here are some examples of them; for a visiting and hosting: When you visit, must avoid to point with fingers, speak on high tone. A hostess must give a choicest part to hoist before give to visitor. A knife, spoon and fork must be given with keeping end. When you depart with don’t wave to. For a kitchen tradition: Don’t pour water to milk, must pour milk to water, and must be use salt little as possible. When you eat, don’t speak loudly. Mongolian hospitality is legendary and is a very influential part of culture and custom. Travelers are welcomed in the Ger to entertain with meals; all sorts of drinking and eating in Ger. Strangers are made to feel welcome almost any time and in a place. Neighbors are warm-hearted allies and mainstay for the Mongolian nomads as they pursue their difficult way of life. Cooperation, courtesy and considerate behavior towards others are very perfect part of Mongolian custom.

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Mongolian Customs and Superstitions