Genghis Khan Misunderstood Part II

Another aspect of Genghis Khan that shows more than what it is, is his stance on religion.  He was heralded by the West with the benevolent title of, "Scourge of God" for his apparent threat of extermination of Christianity with his empire's growth.  However there is again more to this than meets the eye.  

Allegiance to Genghis was all that mattered to the great Mongol leader

Genghis Khan had Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, and many other religious groups representative under his banner.  All were welcome to practise their conviction without refute so long as they pledged faithfully, allegiance to the Great Khan.  Genghis when a step further by exempting religious leaders from many civic duties such as paying taxes in order to focus on their roles as religious leaders within the empire.  

He placed no likeness on one religion nor did he show contempt to any religious doctrine.  He preached openness as it would expand his empire, bringing people who were persecuted in far off lands towards his own,  strengthening his own numbers.  Such a policy was a complete success as it spread unity within his empire.  It was with this openness to religion that Genghis was granted the title of "Protector of Religions" by his peoples.  

In the next segment, we'll take a more holistic look at Genghis Khan's infamous womanising reputation.  Is it true that 1 in 10 people today are related to him?  Till next time!

References

Weatherford, J. McIver. Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World.  
New York: Crown, 2004.  Print.