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Black Goat Sacrifice in Hobogsair


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Authors

Bulag, Uradyn E. 
Fuerwa, Dorjraa 

Abstract

Each year, the Torghuts residing in Hobogsair engage in a ritualistic practice of sacrificing a black goat to the revered Hatun Mountain. Among the varied reasons behind this tradition lies the belief in subduing a spectral figure known as the Kazakh old ghost lady, who is said to traverse the Hatun Mountain, appearing before unsuspecting onlookers while singing and manifesting herself. In response to this supernatural presence, a living Buddha proposed the annual sacrifice of a black goat to appease and suppress the wandering spirit. Thus, this tradition found its roots in ancient beliefs and practices. Responsible for overseeing this ritual is the Hobogin Bagda family, entrusted with the solemn duty of carrying out the sacrifice. Reflecting on personal experiences, Tsevein Purvei recalled, “during my tenure as the head of the Sum, I was tasked by the Jasag Khüree monastery to procure a black goat from local herders for an offering to the Bagda family, a responsibility I fulfilled without hesitation.” This tradition not only underscores the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs of the Torghut community but also highlights the enduring significance of cultural practices in shaping their collective identity.

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Keywords

Black Goat Sacrifice, Ritual, Worship, Hobogsair, Torghuts

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Publisher

Kalmyk Cultural Heritage Documentation Project, University of Cambridge

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Sponsorship
Sponsored by Arcadia Fund, a charitable fund of Lisbet Rausing and Peter Baldwin.