Imagine the cosmos as a grand, multilayered tapestry where each thread weaves its own story. In Tengriist thought, the “nine great gods” or “nine layers” form the backbone of that celestial design. Each layer represents a distinct level of existence—from the fiery forge of transformation all the way up to the serene domain of Tengri, the Sky-God himself.

These nine realms aren’t mere abstractions. They act like a spiritual elevator, granting shamans access to hidden wisdom and ancestral guidance. Jumping between layers during rituals, a shaman might tap into the third sky to petition the wind spirit for favorable weather, or ascend to the seventh heaven to seek clarity from the moon goddess. Every level holds its own guardians: stellar forces, elemental deities, even the souls of legendary heroes.

Modern interest in Tengriism is bubbling up across Central Asia—Kazakhstan’s 2023 cultural revival saw communities reestablishing seasonal rites tied to these nine skies. That resurgence reflects a broader thirst for environmental harmony, resonating with today’s conversations about climate action. After all, each layer underscores a facet of the natural world, reminding people that weather patterns, wildlife migrations and even human fortunes are interwoven.

The nine-tiered structure also mirrors a universal human quest—to find balance between earthbound needs and lofty aspirations. As climate reports warn of shifting seasons and melting permafrost, turning eyes skyward can inspire a renewed sense of stewardship. Invoking each celestial level becomes more than a ritual; it’s a reminder that all life is nested within something far grander than any single being.

In this worldview, domination over nature is out of the question. Harmony reigns supreme. Those nine layers stand as both signposts and sentinels, inviting a deeper respect for the delicate web that connects sky, earth and every living creature in between.