Buddhism in Mongolia | History

Mongolian Buddhism
Mongolian Buddhism

Mongolian Buddhism: Ogodei’s second son, Godan Khan (1206 – 1251), invaded Tibet several times and in 1244 brought 3 prominent Tibetan Sakya lamas as guests (or hostages) to his court in Liangzhou (modern Gansu province): They were Sakya Paṇḍita, 1182-1251), head of the Sakya School, and his 2 nephews. Buddhism - specifically Tibetan Buddhism - began to have a significant impact on Mongolian concepts of rulership and Empire.

Buddhism in Mongolia
Buddha in Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Buddhism in Mongolia derives much of its recent characteristics from Tibetan Buddhism of the Gelug and Kagyu lineages, but is distinct and presents its own unique characteristics. Buddhism in Mongolia began with the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368) emperors' conversion to Tibetan Buddhism. The Mongols returned to shamanic traditions after the collapse of the Mongol Empire, but Buddhism re-emerged in the 16-17th centuries.