While Mongolians do not perform state-level rituals to worship the majestic mountains of the Altai range, they have revered Otgon Tengger Mountain, much like Khan Khentii Mountain, since ancient times for several reasons. Examining why this mountain is called "Otgon Tengger" or "Bogd Ochirvaan" reveals distinct origins.
Speculation Related to Chinggis Khan
The Secret History of the Mongols records that after Chinggis Khan's death, his body was transported back to his homeland. It is speculated that while moving his remains to Burkhan Khaldun Mountain, the caravan crossed the high peaks of the Altai, and to prevent decomposition along the way, his body may have been hidden and buried in the eternal snows of Otgon Tengger Mountain. Many believe that this mountain, which may house the remains of the great Khan who ascended to the heavens, was named "Otgon Tengger" out of reverence. In Mongolian, "Otgon" means "the last," while "Tengger" symbolizes "the son of the sky who ascended to the heavens." Mongolians honor Chinggis Khan as the eternal son of the sky.
The Origin of the Name "Ochirvaan"
"Ochirvaan" is the name of a Buddhist deity, and some believe that after his death, Chinggis Khan became the Ochirvaan god. According to Buddhist teachings, there exists a paradise ruled by the god Avid. It is said that Ochirvaan serves as a protector, shielding Avid from evil forces.
The Meaning of the Word "Otgon"
Until recently, the word "Otgon" was interpreted as stemming from Turkic-Mongolian origins, meaning "the child who guards the hearth of the home."
Historical Traditions
Tang Dynasty chronicles note that the Turkic kings who flourished along the banks of the Orkhon River worshipped Otgon Tengger Mountain and used its mineral springs for medicinal purposes. At that time, the mountain was called "Tengger Mountain." Mongolian tribes have a history of venerating this mountain even earlier than the Turkic peoples. From the 16th century onward, it began to be revered as "Bogd Ochirvaan."
Otgon Tengger Mountain was first designated a protected area in 1828, with annual worship rituals conducted. In 1911, when Mongolia broke free from Manchu rule, the Bogd Khan government established a law mandating yearly worship. However, this tradition ceased entirely in the 1930s. Nevertheless, Mongolians continued to hold Otgon Tengger Mountain in their hearts, offering tributes across many mountains. In 1995, by decree of the Mongolian President, the practice of performing worship rituals once every four years was revived.
Features and Traditions of the Mountain
Otgon Tengger Mountain is home to five types of juniper, renowned throughout the East. Mongolians have long cherished these as "Otgon Tengger junipers." Stepping on or damaging the branches of these junipers is strictly forbidden, and when they must be harvested, it is customary to recite prayers, kneel, and request permission. The mountain also hosts the "Flower of Heaven," known as Vansemberuu (Edelweiss), believed to be bestowed by divine protection. This flower is not easily found by searching, yet it appears in abundance to those destined to see it, growing in pairs with a connected life force. Harvesting Vansemberuu requires a special ritual and was historically prized as a supreme medicinal herb. The process involves setting up a tent, appeasing the earth spirits, offering tributes, having a dog sever the flower, and ensuring it is not exposed to the sky. With large white petals, a thick green stem, and growing as tall as a three-year-old child, this flower is truly unique.
Traveling through Otgon Tengger Mountain, one finds that herders’ homes carefully preserve juniper, Vansemberuu, stones from Duut Lake, and golden sand. The golden sand, found near Otgon Tengger, melts in the mouth and is believed to cure stomach and intestinal ailments. On the backside of Little Otgon Tengger, in the Aldarkhaan village area, there is a hot spring rich in bicarbonate and sulfate, known for its healing properties. Emerging from 31 springs, this hot spring maintains a temperature of 40–55°C. Tang Dynasty records state that since the 8th century, Turkic kings used this spring to treat illnesses.
