Language/Halh-mongolian/Culture/Mongolian-Etiquette
Mongolian culture is rich with longstanding customs and traditions that reflect the country's nomadic roots and deep respect for nature. As a visitor, it is important to demonstrate an understanding of these customs to show respect for the local culture. In this lesson, we will discuss common customs and etiquette in Mongolia, including greetings, gift-giving, and dining practices.
Take a moment to explore these relevant pages as you conclude this lesson: Mongolian Music and Dance & Naadam Festival.
Greeting Customs
Greeting customs in Mongolia are important and often involve physical touch. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- When greeting someone, it is customary to offer a handshake or a slight bow.
- It is common to greet someone with a hug, especially if they are a close friend or family member.
- In more formal settings or when meeting elders, it is respectful to greet them with a slightly deeper bow.
- When saying hello to someone older than you, use the honorific suffix "-aa" after their name to show respect. For example, if someone is named Bayar, you would say "Bayraa sain uu?" which means "Hello, Bayar, how are you?"
Gift Giving Customs
Gift giving is an important part of Mongolian culture and there are some important customs to keep in mind:
- When visiting someone's home, it is customary to bring a gift such as sweets or other small tokens.
- When giving a gift, it is polite to do so with both hands and accompanied by a slight bow.
- It is polite to refuse a gift a few times before accepting it. This shows that you are not greedy and that you are considerate of the gift giver.
- If you are given a gift, it is customary to reciprocate with a gift of similar value.
Dining Etiquette
Dining etiquette in Mongolia is different than in many Western countries. Here are some important tips to remember:
- Shoes should always be removed when entering a Mongolian ger (traditional tent dwelling).
- Traditionally, meals in Mongolia are eaten seated on the floor or on a low stool. Guests should wait to be seated by the host or hostess.
- Meals in Mongolia are often served as a communal feast. It is customary to offer food to others before eating yourself.
- It is polite to leave a little bit of food on your plate to show that you have had enough to eat.
- When drinking hot drinks like tea, it is customary to hold the bowl with both hands and take small sips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, visitors to Mongolia should keep in mind the unique customs and etiquette of the country. By following these customs, visitors can show respect for the local culture and make the most of their experience in this beautiful country. Remember to greet people with respect, give and receive gifts in the proper way, and enjoy traditional Mongolian meals to the fullest.
Halh Mongolian | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
Баярлаж байна уу? | Bayarlaj baina uu? | How do you do? |
Амжилт хүсье | Amjilt husye | Good luck |
Баяртай | Bayartai | Goodbye/See you |
Сайн байна уу? | Sain baina uu? | How are you? |
With this lesson finished, you may want to explore these additional pages: Mongolia Timeline & Sports and Recreation.
Other Lessons
- Naadam Festival
- Cultural Diversity and Identity
- Mongolia Timeline
- Sports and Recreation
- Contemporary Art and Literature
- Visual Arts
- Mongolian History
- Traditional Holidays
- Traditional Music