Nom Boshooh: The Tradition of Clear Script
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Nom Bosgoh, standing up the clear script, is the calligraphy of the clear script. In the past, the Öölds underwent complex processes to create their unique paper and used wooden or brush pens to inscribe the clear script scriptures. Currently, Purvei purchases kraft paper from shops, cuts it into long strips shaped like Buddhist sutras, and inscribes his designated scripts. In 2022, Purvei penned over twenty scriptures. Purvei’s dedication to clear scriptwriting stems from three main reasons: his personal interest, writing for others who wish to venerate specific scriptures at home, and renewing old and endangered scriptures. In Mongol Khüree County, approximately eight people can write clear script scriptures, and about a hundred can loudly read these scriptures to others. The average age of these individuals is between 40 and 50, with no younger generation currently involved in this tradition. Historically, when someone invited Har Bagsh to read scriptures at their home, close relatives, neighbours, and other community members would eagerly bring dairy food and attend the ritual, sharing the good fortune of the scriptures. Some would even bring their family's venerated scriptures to partake in the ritual's blessings and then return them home afterwards. Other families, lacking their own scriptures, would borrow from others to keep in their homes for several days to attract good luck and auspiciousness. The clear script scriptures must be preserved in their cloth covers, which locals call dresses. Previously, Ööld families would light butter lamps in front of their venerated scriptures until 2016. Nowadays, due to increased political scrutiny, they often conceal their scriptures to avoid entanglement in political accusations.