Bultungin : The Were Hyena

Bultungin

Introduction

Bultungin, a captivating figure within North African mythology, holds a prominent place in the folklore of the Kanem-Bornu Empire in the Lake Chad region. In the Kanuri language, the term “Bultungin” translates to “I change myself into a hyena.” This mythical creature belongs to the category of werehyenas, a term coined by analogy to werewolves, signifying therianthropy involving hyenas. Amidst the diverse array of mythical beings in this mystical realm, Bultungin emerges as a figure veiled in mystery and imbued with formidable power.

Physical Traits

The Bultungin is reputed to possess the skill of shape-shifting into a hyena. In its human guise, it may seamlessly blend in with others, rendering itself indistinguishable. Yet, upon undergoing transformation, it adopts the distinctive physical characteristics of a hyena, evolving into a formidable and intimidating creature.

Family

The mythology surrounding the Bultungin does not attribute a specific family or lineage to the creature. Nevertheless, a traditional belief once held that one or two villages in the region were entirely inhabited by werehyenas.

Other names

Across diverse regions and cultures, the Bultungin assumes various names. In Ethiopia, they go by the names “bouda” or “buda” and are traditionally associated with blacksmiths who possess the ability to transform into hyenas. In the Kanuri language spoken in the former Bornu Empire around Lake Chad, these werehyenas are known as “bultungin.”

Powers and Abilities

The Bultungin harbors a distinctive capability to metamorphose into a hyena. This transformation goes beyond mere changes in physical appearance, encompassing the adoption of hyena behaviors and characteristics. In certain folklores, the Bultungin is additionally linked to activities commonly ascribed to hyenas, such as grave-robbing and other analogous behaviors.

Modern Day Influence

The impact of the Bultungin persists in contemporary culture, particularly within literature and media. The recurring theme of a human undergoing a transformative shift into an animal is a prevalent motif in fantasy and horror genres. The Bultungin, with its distinctive fusion of human and hyena attributes, serves as a fertile wellspring of inspiration for writers and artists alike. Its influence reverberates across various mediums, ranging from literature and cinema to video games and graphic novels.

The creature’s symbolic essence frequently finds expression in the artistic landscape, where creators draw inspiration from its majestic form. This imagery becomes woven into modern works that pay homage to the rich mythological heritage of North Africa. Additionally, the presence of Bultungin extends into cultural practices, manifesting in rituals and festivals that uphold and celebrate the longstanding traditions of North African cultures.