A History of Mongolian Shamanism

A History of Mongolian Shamanism pp 19–34Cite as

• Dalai Chuluunii & 
• Erdene-Otgon Dalai 
• Chapter
• First Online: 27 February 2022

• 7 Accesses

Abstract

The Secret History of the Mongols is the principal source for the study of shamanism of the Great Mongolian Empire. Evidence relating to shamanism appears in 51 of the 282 sections of the Secret History of the Mongols /51/. 32 of these 51 sections reflect evidence relating to Chinggis Khaan’s religious beliefs. In general, there are very many places, mountains, and waters that are associated with the name of Chinggis in Mongolian territory. During the period of the Great Mongolian Empire, the Mongol khans patronized Buddhism for political purposes and aimed to make it the state’s official religion. However, among the general population of Mongolia, shamanism was widespread and could not be eliminated.