370th anniversary of the birth of Zanabazar

BY S.UYANGA -
taken from UB POST August 3rd

THE 370TH anniversary of the birth of the first Bogd Khaan Zanabazar was celebrated on July 29 and 30 in Khar Khorin, Ovorkhangai aimag. Several state figures took part in a ceremony presided over by President N.Enkhbayar. In his opening speech Enkhbayar noted the significance of the Soyombo, the state emblem created by Zanabazar, and of Zanabazar’s influential role in Mongolian Buddhism, art and culture. The president described how the Soyombo was one of Zanabazar’s greatest works.
The highly respected symbol describes Mongolian history, tradition, statehood and independence. Enkhbayar explained that Zanabazar used the Soyombo to express his simple teaching that events that happen to a person or people are a direct result of the people’s actions. This in turn was used to express that the increase and decrease in the fortunes of the Mongol nation were due to the Mongolians themselves and it is therefore only the Mongolians who can save themselves from any misfortune.
Zanabazar lived from 1635 to 1723 and was the most important state and religious figure of his time. He is famous for creating the Soyombo alphabet and many magnificent art works including portraits of the Buddha and sculptures of the 21 taras. He was a descendant of Chinggis Khaan and promoted the growth of Buddhism in Mongolia, adjusting the religion to Mongolian traditions.
Some historians have criticized Zanabazar’s close relationship with Manchu occupiers of Mongolia. However, Doctor N.Khavkh countered this in a report he made at a scientific conference organized for the anniversary on July 6, saying that Zanabazar had no choice but to accept the support of the Manchu. He said that historical records show that at that time Russia had become strong and Mongolia was in danger of attack from Buryatia as well the strong influence of Manchu rule.
Khavkh explained that the Manchu Emperor Enkh- Amgalan put pressure on Zanabazar to allow Mongolia to become Manchu territory. However Zanabazar resisted and facilitated the keeping of Mongolia as an independent country yet under the control of the Manchu. Zanabazar played a pivotal role in saving Mongolia from being annexed to any of the powerful nations at that time such as Russia, Buryatia, and China, according to Khavkh.
A danshig Naadam (regional Naadam) event was held in Ovorkhangai to mark the anniversary, with traditional competitions of national wrestling, horse racing and archery.