From 13th Century Chinggis Kahn to Democracy and Freedom: A Week of Wonder in Mongolia

 

Another beautiful week in the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky” has come and gone! For our preparation day, we took some time to explore the area and soak in the history and beauty around us. We’re so grateful to our friend Enkhjiguur Bayarjav (we call him Jay) for generously taking time to show us around!

One stop we made was at the Chinggis Khan statue and as the below photos show, the statue was massive and awe-inspiring. We learned so much about the legacy of Chinggis Khan and the ancient history that continues to shape this incredible country.

                        

There were also camels at the site so of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity to ride a camel! 

                                        

Next, we visited a 13th-century village where we were treated to a delicious traditional lunch and had the chance to experience what life might have looked like during the time of Chinggis Khan. It was both fun and educational—a real highlight of the day.  The first stop was the Chief's ger.  Here they fed us a delicious lunch with boortsog (fried bread), mutton soup and Khuushuur (a deep fried meat pie) and let us dress as the chief and queen.  

At the next stop we learned about the Shamanistic influences of Mongolia's tribal society.  

The dead tree in the middle was selected because it had been hit with lightning, touched by the heavens.  There are 180 spear points facing outward to push the evil spirits away.  

Next was the herder's ger.  Here we tasted curd dipped in butter cream and yogurt, all made that morning.  

Next was the school, complete with desks and a chalkboard (or should we say ashboard!).  They would write on the board by covering it in oil and then ash.  The tool would then scrape off the ash to make the writing.  We also had our names written in Mongolian old script....very cool!  

The last stop in the 13th Century Village was the Soldiers quarters/Post office, which, as described, sounded like the Pony Express.  We got to try on some armor here.

By chance, on our way back to the city we came upon a traditional archery competition.  Despite the many modern bows available today, the competitors stayed true to tradition by using handmade 13th century wooden bows. It was fascinating to witness this living connection to Mongolia’s heritage!

                   

                      

Another stop was at Zaisan Hill—a stunning landmark in Ulaanbaatar that offers panoramic views of the city and serves as a powerful memorial to Mongolia’s more recent history and the people/nations who have shaped it.  This site celebrates Soviet control and assistance to Mongolia as they fought off Japanese invasion at the beginning of WW II.  Ironically, this site also holds special significance for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as it is where Elder Neal A. Maxwell, an apostle of the Church, dedicated the country for the preaching of the restored gospel on April 15, 1993.  

At the time, Mongolia had recently embraced democracy, opening the door for religious freedom and allowing the gospel to be preached. Imagine that...the site that celebrates Soviet domination and no religious freedom is also the place where Mongolia was opened up to the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  In that dedicatory prayer, Elder Maxwell declared, “...This is a windswept land.  May it also be the case that the winds of freedom will never cease to blow in Mongolia.  Preserve and protect the independence of Mongolia regardless of the moves made on the great checkerboard of the nations." He also said, "May Mongolia even be a beacon light to other nations.” Now, as Mongolia—a democracy nestled between two communist countries—prepares for a temple, we are seeing this prophetic promise come to life. It was deeply moving to reread the words of that prayer on the very hill where they were spoken just 32 years ago.      

                    

And coming back to modern times, we had the privilege of participating in a special donation event. Deseret International Charities donated a modern ultrasound machine to a local hospital, marking the first time the hospital will be able to perform neurological surgeries with this level of imaging. It was inspiring to see the gratitude on the faces of the hospital staff and to hear how much of a difference this equipment will make in patients’ lives.

We also discovered a hidden gem this week—Science Café! This charming little spot is full of fun, science-themed décor and made for a delightful break in our day.

Their drink menu board was so creative, using the periodic table as a theme! They all had lab coats on too. So cute! 

We ordered a strawberry shake (Sr) and it was served in a beaker.

Each week seems to fill up faster than the last, but we love the work we’re doing and the amazing people we get to meet and serve alongside. We wouldn’t have it any other way!