From Täŋri to Chinggis: The Reframing of Uyghur  Kingship and Titulatures in the Kingdom of Qocho  under Mongol Rule   (ca. 840–1250)

This MA thesis examines the evolution of Uyghur kingship and titles in the Kingdom of Qocho (ca. 840-1250) following its submission to the Mongols (1206-1368) in 1209. Through the study of specific titular components, such as iduq qut ("blessed by divine favor") and täŋri ("Heaven"), and their evolution, the research reveals how the local kingdom survived as a political entity under Mongol rule. Through a combination of linguistic and historical analyses, the thesis reveals the progressive reframing and desacralization of Uyghur titles. While the Uyghurs initially maintained a privileged "fifth son" status under Chinggis Khan, the thesis argues that their titulature underwent significant "secularization." The title "iduq qut" transitioned from a marker of sacred authority rooted in Manichaean and Buddhist traditions to a mere political rank or honorary distinction within the Mongol hierarchy. Furthermore, as the Mongols claimed an exclusive monopoly over Heaven's mandate to justify...Show moreThis MA thesis examines the evolution of Uyghur kingship and titles in the Kingdom of Qocho (ca. 840-1250) following its submission to the Mongols (1206-1368) in 1209. Through the study of specific titular components, such as iduq qut ("blessed by divine favor") and täŋri ("Heaven"), and their evolution, the research reveals how the local kingdom survived as a political entity under Mongol rule. Through a combination of linguistic and historical analyses, the thesis reveals the progressive reframing and desacralization of Uyghur titles. While the Uyghurs initially maintained a privileged "fifth son" status under Chinggis Khan, the thesis argues that their titulature underwent significant "secularization." The title "iduq qut" transitioned from a marker of sacred authority rooted in Manichaean and Buddhist traditions to a mere political rank or honorary distinction within the Mongol hierarchy. Furthermore, as the Mongols claimed an exclusive monopoly over Heaven's mandate to justify universal rule, the use of täŋri-based titles in Uyghur nomenclature declined significantly from the thirteenth century onward. Ultimately, the evolution of these titles reflects a strategic adaptation that allowed the Kingdom of Qocho to preserve elements of its cultural identity while acknowledging its new status as a Mongol vassal.Show less

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From Täŋri to Chinggis: The Reframing of Uyghur Kingship and Titulatures in the Kingdom of Qocho under Mongol Rule (ca. 840–1250)