Religions

Tengri is a central deity in the religious beliefs of many Turkic and Mongolic peoples, particularly in the context of Tengrism, which is the ancient spiritual practice of these cultures. Here are some key points about Tengri and Tengrism:

### Tengri - The Sky God
- Supreme Deity: Tengri (also spelled Tengeri, Tangri, or Tenger) is considered the sky god or the god of the heavens. He is the supreme deity in the pantheon of Turkic and Mongolic deities.
- Etymology: The word "Tengri" itself translates to "sky" in modern Turkic languages, indicating his association with the heavens.
- Attributes: Tengri is often depicted as the eternal blue sky, embodying immortality, omnipresence, and omnipotence. He is the creator of the universe and the master of fate.

### Tengrism - The Spiritual System
- Nature-based Belief: Tengrism is a shamanistic and animistic religion that places heavy emphasis on the natural world, particularly the sky, earth, water, and ancestral spirits.
- Shamanism: Central to Tengrism is the role of the shaman, who acts as an intermediary between humans and the spirit world, often performing rituals to communicate with Tengri and other spirits.
- Moral Code: Tengrism includes a moral code that emphasizes harmony with nature and the community, respect for elders, and the pursuit of courage and strength.
- Influence on Leaders: Tengri was invoked by many Central Asian leaders, including Genghis Khan, who considered himself a chosen one blessed by Tengri.

### Historical Context
- Ancient Practice: Tengrism dates back to ancient times and was practiced by various Turkic nomadic tribes, such as the Huns, Göktürks, and later the Mongols.
- Cultural Integration: Even as Central Asian tribes converted to other religions, primarily Islam and Buddhism, elements of Tengrism persisted and were often syncretized with the new religious practices. For instance, the reverence for the sky, nature, and the moral values of Tengrism continued to influence cultural practices and traditions.

### Modern Relevance
- Revival: In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in Tengrism among some modern Turkic and Mongolic communities, who see it as an essential part of their cultural heritage.

In summary, Tengri is a central figure in Tengrism, representing the sky and embodying the supreme power in the universe. Tengrism, with its shamanistic and animistic underpinnings, has played a significant role in the spiritual and cultural life of Central Asian peoples throughout history.