"Khas"
The khas or swastika was misused in a short period of history,
and now looks like many people to a fascist symbol. It is
easy to draw the first conclusion that it is a symbol of fascism
and ergo Mongolians are fascist. This would be wrong. The
"Khas" is an ancient symbol of sturdiness and eternity
in Mongolia. There are about ten kinds of "Khas",
turned to different directions. These days the "Khas"
can still be seen on Buddhist monestaries and on some signboards
in Mongolia. It is unfortunate that the horrors of the German
fascists has tainted this noble symbol for many years to come,
possibly forever.
"Chodor"
The "chodor", (hobble or fetter) is very popular
in Mongolia and used to control horses on the open steppe
where there are no fences. In Mongolia horses graze over vast
pasture land without any restraint. If a herdsman doesn't
want a particular horse to stray too far then the "chodor"
is employed. A herdsman will frequently change his horse as
needed by switching with other grazing horses. "chodor"
is worn on a horses third foot, preventing a gallop, but making
it possible for a calm walk and to graze the grass. It is
made of 2.5-3 meters long bull leather or horsehair, and the
toggle is made of animal horn or birch. There are two kinds
of "chodor": for one year old horses or for adult
horses.
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