The article deals with the burial rite of the Kalmyks, which affects such a phenomenon of human existence as the limit of
life. On the basis of written and archaeological sources, various types of burials are considered, reflecting the transformation of the
outlook and funeral rites of the Kalmyks from the 17th to the 20th centuries. under the influence of religious beliefs of the people
about the soul and the afterlife.
With the adoption of Buddhism, the funeral practice of the Kalmyks has significantly expanded. In addition to the rite of cremation, traditional burial practices are still practiced: in the ground (ground); on the surface of the earth and the laying of the buried stone; leaving on the surface of the earth without clothing or in a shroud; leaving in natural depressions; hanging on trees or arangasnye (on a platform with poles); immersion in water. During the same period, the role of clergymen (lamas), which determined the forms of burials, their places, time, etc., appreciably increases.
To the beginning of 20th century. In Kalmykia, there were two types of burials: ground burial and cremation. By the end of the 40s of the 20th century. As a result of mass repression against religion and clergymen, the cremation rite disappears and only a soil burial remains. At the end of 20th century. Buddhism once again becomes the spiritual and cultural core of the Kalmyk people, but the Kalmyks continue to bury in the earth.