Abstract
In this paper, I examine some of the aspects of the 'sacred and the profane' in riddles that deal with Buddhism and related sacral themes in two extensive collections of Mongolian riddles. These riddles unite Buddhist themes with the daily life of the nomad, integrating the sacral into the tropes of everyday life.
The use of iconopoeic words is also highly evidenced. In this article, I examine riddles employing iconopoeic words that describe figures associated with Buddhism and Buddhist clergy.
Iconopoeic or 'shape-painting' words create a distinct visual image in the mind of the auditor, often with humorous associations. Rather than expressing disdain for religion or religious rights, these riddles express a degree of affectionate intimacy with the objects of these qualities.