Religion has been a stable element of many societies, ancient and modern, throughout history. Although this seems true in most cases, it was not always the case for the great Mongol Empire. They had many views ranging from neutral and extreme tolerance, then to the Khans and Mongols themselves adopting different religions, or calling on advisors who were monks or religious teachers. Their opinions ranged from one extreme to the other, changing over the years almost as often as the wind changes direction. Although their views on religion have varied throughout their existence as an empire, these views are exactly what has helped them thrive through the changes brought on by their vast conquest of the world. Before Genghis Khan came to power, Mongolia had a vaguely defined religion; the word "set" would also be loosely defined and used in this case. Native Mongol religion focused primarily on spiritual powers from heaven and earth. The Mongols worshiped the sky god Tenggiri more than all other spirits and gods, although others were also important to them. This cult was sometimes so extreme that Tenggiri's followers became extremely sectarian. A bit like Mormonism. Despite such devoted disciples, there was no priesthood and very few full-time practitioners. Prognostications were common among practitioners of this indigenous religion, most coming from divination through the cracks appearing in the shoulder blade and other bones of sheep. Shamans were also very common within this religion.1 Even though the unnamed indigenous religion of Mongol and shamanism were extremely widespread throughout the Mongol Empire, this does not mean that the Mongols did not embrace or embrace d other religions. Middle of paper .......istians, however, he is not worshiped with prayers, praises or ceremonies. The Mongols are also allowed to have felt idols. An example of this would be a felt which is a way of thanking the guardians who protect the livestock which gives them milk and foals; Brother John also mentions that these idols receive the first milk from each mare and cow. Along with worshiping idols, the Mongols also worshiped the sun, moon, fire, water and earth. As an offering, they give these elements food and drink, especially in the morning.2 This would greatly reaffirm the fact that the Mongols still clung to some of their pagan traditions. They worshiped other idols and spirits, not just the one true God._______________1. John Plano Carpini, History of the Mongols (np: N/A, nd), 9.2. John Plano Carpini, History of the Mongols (np: N/A, nd.), 10.