Ovoo

The ovoo is a monument associated primarily with the worship of mountains and the sky. It most often takes the form of a heap of stones, and is typically found at the top of hills and mountains and other high places.

Although many ovoos are built simply as markers to show borders or mountain passes, most are considered to be sacred monuments. A Mongolian must never pass by a sacred ovoo without stopping, but is expected to dismount from his horse and make an offering of money, vodka or dairy products, or a few hairs from the tail of his horse. The passerby should also add a stone to the heap.

Ovoos also play an important role in mountain-worship and similar ceremonies of offering, which generally occur at the end of summer. At the time of offering tree branches are placed on the ovoo, and cloth or paper prayer flags covered with religious writings are tied to these. Near or on the ovoo the worshippers place wood and tie xadag scarves, and light juniper incense (arc) on a row of three stones leading from each of its four sides. Near or on the top of the ovoo they will light a fire, then they will make offerings of meat, dairy products, vodka and airag. Afterwards a shaman will dance or lamas will read prayers, with the worshippers sitting at the north-west side of the ovoo. Once the ceremony is over, the worshippers will divide amongst themselves the remaining meat and dairy foods, leaving the offered part on the ovoo. Naadam festivals have also long been associated with major ovoo-worship ceremonies.

CategoryEncyclopaediaMongolica

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