Orang Bunian : The Asian Elf

Orang Bunion

Introduction

The Orang Bunian is a character from Indonesian mythology that has also managed to firmly establish itself in the mythology of the Malaysian people as well. In Indonesia’s Minangkabau region of the Sumatra islands, the term orang bunian is often associated with the term god. The meaning of “god” in this context is different from that of Buddhism, Hinduism or any modern religion. In other words, in this case, the term “dewa” refers to a nation of spirits that live in the forest, near a cemetery, or on the edge of a hill.

On the edge of the hill, before sunset, one can smell an aroma that is commonly referred to as “God’s cooking” or “God’s sambal.” This is similar to the smell of French fries and is usually associated with the presence of the Orang Bunian. In addition, they believe that there have been instances where people have been secretly hidden by their bunian or gods. This is a myth that is quite popular among of the members of the Minangkabau community where it is also believed that these spirits have taken away their babies.

Physical Traits

The orang bunian is considered to be supernatural beings that are not seen by most humans or invisible to normal human eyes. They are described as being incredibly beautiful and almost identical to humans in appearance. Due to the nature of their appearance, the orang bunian is often depicted in modern depictions wearing high fantasy-inspired clothing or with pointed ears with strong resemblances to elves from European mythology. Some stories also claim that the creature has a lack of a philtrum, which is the vertical groove between the base of the nose and the border of the upper lip.

Family

The orang bunian is also known to live in large communities, similar to the social structures that are commonly seen in human homes. It is also said to inhabit the deep forests, but it is not considered to be in contact with humans. The orang bunian is also said to share the same houses with humans and some of them are said to be good people, while others are known to be evil.

Powers and Abilities

The orang bunian is known to have supernatural abilities, such as being able to assist and befriend humans and also known to abduct children. It is also blamed for causing people to wander aimlessly in the forest. Some stories also claim that men who married the orang bunian only left them as they pined for their families that had already been left behind. Upon returning to the human race, they realise that everyone they knew had already died as the Orang Bunian live extremely long lives.

Inhabiting deep forests and high mountains, the orang bunian can sometimes be heard singing and talking amongst itself. However, it can’t be seen from the outside world due to its powers of invisibility. To avoid getting in the way of its supernatural abilities, one must first go through certain customs and rituals especially if you wish to tresspass on their territory.

Modern Day Influence

Unlike the other spirits and ghosts of Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia like the Toyol or the Polong, the Orang Bunian is not conjured by acts of black magic or with harmful intent. They are usually free spirits that exist normally in the mortal realm and not created by humans. Certain areas of the deep forests and mountains of Indonesia are protected by the native tribes as being the home of the Orang Bunian and they try and maintain the sanctity of the place with regular offerings and rituals. This is to ensure that the humans and the spirits can co exist peacefully within the same space.