Development and Existence of the Mongolian Tuul: Historical Stages, Global Significance, and Preservation Challenges

The Mongolian tuuli, or heroic epic, is a central element of Mongolia’s nomadic cultural heritage, reflecting the nation’s philosophical, ethical, and cosmological worldview. This paper traces the historical development of the tuul from its ancestral origins rooted in Tenggerism and nature worship, through ancient, medieval, and late periods, to its contemporary endangered status. The study highlights the tuuli’s unique features, including its cosmic spatial imagination, ethical teachings, and integration of oral performance with music and mnemonic techniques. It also emphasizes the global significance of the Mongolian tuuli, as one of the few living epic traditions worldwide. Finally, the paper outlines strategies for the preservation, revitalization, and international promotion of the tuuli, stressing its critical role in sustaining Mongolia’s national identity and contributing to global intangible cultural heritage.