Traditional astronomers and almanac makers never seem to agree among themselves on when Tsagaan Sar will be. Since they do not take advantage of scientific data, but stick to their approximate computing of movements in the sky, they reach differing conclusions on when exactly the moon is in the position relating to Earth that marks the beginning of a Mongolian new year. This year too the ordinary man finds himself confused. Some traditional, religious or lay, astronomers are saying Tsagaan Sar or White Moon must be on February 7 while Ts.Terbish, the most respected astronomer in the country, thinks the date should be February 8. The date marks when shine sar or the new moon is on the sky.

Another traditional astronomer Ch.Dashtseren says, “The position of the Moon determines everything in the bilgiin toolol or the lunar calendar. A total of 28 countries, small and big, including ours celebrate the White Moon festival. There is no doubt that this year February 7 is the day of the shiniin negen, or the first day of the new lunar calendar. Accordingly, February is 6 is bituun or new year’s eve, or the last day of the current lunar year.”

He is unhappy that lamas continue to mislead the people by following “Tibetan dark customs” of calculation which do not tally with science. He knows Terbish’s calculation is wrong but the lamas will not accept this, and will continue to stick to their old ways. The lamas support Terbish, and people have to believe them.
Dashtseren says that February 8 is the day of a black hole, which signifies “endless suffering”. He urges people to observe Tsagaan Sar on the right day if they want good fortune in the new year.
“You can see for yourself how the moon on February 8 is the Turavan sar. If you celebrate the first day of the new year then, be prepared for the celestial curse which will come definitely.”

The head of the Mamba Datsan Buddhist monastery, D.Natsagdorj, says, “The first day of spring is February 8. It is regrettable that people (he did not name anybody but the reference was obviously to those who disagreed with Terbish) calling themselves astronomers should try to mislead and scare people.”

by Ts.Lkhagvasuren
The UB POST

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