Xadag

(Tibetan kha-btags) One of the most ubiquitous ceremonial objects used in Mongolia, the xadag is a silk scarf used as a symbol of respect.

Mongolians offer xadags on important occasions to elders, lamas (teachers), or distinguished people, often along with a bowl of MILK, or possibly a gift. The presentation of the xadag conveys the deepest consideration for the person to whom it is being offered.

When being presented, the xadag is folded lengthwise and offered with the open edge facing the recipient. The person offering the xadag will generally bow or kneel with respect; the recipient takes the xadag in both hands then gently folds it and sets it aside. There are special ritual words pronounced when giving xadags on different occasions, generally wishing for good health, long life, and the like.

Xadags can also be put in sacred places as a symbol of respect for a sacred object or monument. For example, xadags can be seen tied to branches on an OVOO (sacred cairn) or around the trunk of a sacred tree, or draped over the arms of sacred statues in temples and shrines. Often families will keep a xadag at the rear of the GER (yurt) along with their sacred objects.

There are many kinds of xadag having different lengths and decorated with different words or patterns and symbols, designed for use in different rituals. Most xadags used in Mongolia are blue, symbolizing the eternity of the blue sky. The xadag has five different colors and each color represents a different blessing, (e.g. health, wealth, peace or a happy life).

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