Babi Ngepet : The Boar Demon
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At a glance
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Indonesian Mythology |
| Classification | Animals |
| Family Members | N/A |
| Region | Indonesia |
| Associated With | Black Magic, Robbery |
Babi Ngepet
Introduction
Babi ngepet is believed to be the product of a person who practices pesugihan babi black magic. This type of magic involves a person surrendering their humanity in exchange for becoming rich instantly. The person is then transformed into a boar or allowing themselves to be possessed by a demon win the shape of a boar. It has similarities with the Western concept of a werewolf.
Physical Traits
Babi Ngepet looks like a wild boar, but it is much larger than a regular boar. When viewed through the camera, it has a muddy complexion and bloody mouth along with a human face.
Powers and Abilities
Some myths suggest that before a man turns into a creature, he is placed inside black robes. Babi Ngepet then attacks the village and steals its valuables by rubbing its body against the wall, door, cupboard, furniture or vaults. Once the man returns home, the black robes will be full of money and jewellery.
The person who practices black magic needs someone else to help them. Babi Ngepet’s assistant is usually tasked with guarding a lit candle from the outside world. If the flame is starting to fade, this is a sign that the magic practitioner is in danger.
People who practice the art of black music will light a candle and float it on a water trough. They will then rob the village while the lit candle is floating on the water. If the candle’s flame gets too dim, or fades, then Babi Ngepet is in danger. Since this belief is believed in the villages, they kill any animal that approaches them at night.
Modern Day Influence
The skeptical view is that it was a way to explain the mysterious disappearance of fortune. It could have been a way to control wild boars that were destroying the rice fields. The association of the boar with magic concerning fortune probably originated from Javanese pre-Islamic and pre-Hindu-Buddhist beliefs that associate the boar with domestic richness, fortune and prosperity, similar to its connections with Celengan, which means piggy bank in Javanese. The word Celengan is derived from word Celeng which means boar.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pig demon mythology?
This is arguably the most well-known pig demon in mythology. Originating from Java and Bali, the Babi Ngepet is a boar-like creature invoked through “Pesugihan,” a form of black magic promising wealth in exchange for the practitioner’s humanity. The Babi Ngepet possesses the sorcerer at night, transforming them into a hideous pig-like creature that steals from others to fulfill the pact.
What is the mythical creature babi?
In the regions of Java and Bali, a boar demon is frequently encountered, believed to embody the practices of “pesugihan babi” black magic. This malevolent entity is portrayed as a boar with piercing eyes and radiant teeth, serving as a representation of those delving into dark arts.
What is the story behind babi ngepet?
The Babi Ngepet is a creature from Indonesian folklore that originates from black magic rituals called “pesugihan babi.” People who practice this ritual transform into boar-like beings to steal wealth, but it comes at the cost of their humanity. The Babi Ngepet symbolizes the dangers of greed and seeking wealth through unethical means, serving as a cautionary tale to be content with what one has.
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Source
Mythical Encyclopedia: Babi Ngepet: A Mysterious Creature from Indonesian Folklore
Wikipedia: Babi Ngepet
Indonesia Expat: The Legend of Babi Ngepet
Myth and Folklore Wiki: Babi Ngepet
Indonesian Folktales” by Murti Bunanta – This book includes various stories from Indonesian folklore, including tales about Babi Ngepet.
“Southeast Asian Folktales: From the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia” by Michael Gibbs
