This article is about Wang Khan Toghrul, ruler of the Kereit. For the Seljuk leader, see To?rül.
Wang Khan, () also Ong Khan, was the title given to the Kereit ruler Toghrul by the JurchenJin Dynasty of China. Like the rest of their tribe he may have been NestorianChristian. Wang Khan was the blood brother of Temüjin's father Yesükhei, and he acted as a patron and early ally for Temüjin (who was later known as Genghis Khan).
When Temüjin attacked Jamuqa for the title of Gur Khan (universal ruler), Toghrul, fearing Temüjin's growing power, plotted with Jamuqa to have him assassinated. He was killed in 1203 by Naiman soldiers who failed to recognize him, after fleeing from a defeat against Genghis Khan. Genghis married one of Toghrul's nieces, the Nestorian Christian Sorghaghtani Beki, to his son Tolui, who by her gave birth to Mongke Khan.
During the 13th century, Wang Khan was one of several Asian or African leaders who was identified with the legend of Prester John.[1]
Encyclopedia
top
