B

B (Maya)

Carrying the axe and fasces, this thunder god is depicted frequently on statues and in ancient manuscripts. He may be the thunder god Chac (q.v.). See also “K.”

B-Iame (Australia) see Baiame.

Ba (Egypt)

Also known as: Bia, Ka (Spirit), Kah, Khu (Mummy), Ta (Shade).

Soul of the Dead. The Egyptians believed that each mortal was made up of three parts: the Ka (the double), Ba (the soul), and the Akh (glorified spirit). The Ba departs the body temporarily after death, returning to the mummy to preserve it. Once the body is buried, the Ba continues to visit the cemetery at night and is given refreshments by Neith, Hathor, or other tree of life goddesses. Ba is usually shown as a hawk with a human head. Ka is shown as a heron. See also Ab; Akh; Amenti; Assessors; Hathor; Ka; Neith.

Ba Neb Tetet (Egypt) see Banededet.

Ba-neb-tettu (Egypt)

Creator god. See also Hathor; Heru-pa-kaut.

Ba-Ra (Egypt) see Aai.

Ba-tau (Phoenician)

He is either the brother of Hay-Tau or an incarnation of Hay-Tau (q.v).

Ba Xian (China) see Eight Immortals.

Ba’al (Phoenicia) see Baal.

Baal Baal Bal, Bel, Belu (Babylonia, Phoenicia, Sumer, Syria)

Also known as: Aleyn Baal, Armen, Ba’al Lebanon, Ba’al of Tyre, Ba’al Shamin, Ba’al Tsaphon (“Lord of the North”), Ba’al-zebub, Ba’alim, Baalim, Baalsamame, Balsamem, Balshameme, Barshamina, Bel (Sumer, Babylonian), Belshim, Belu, Belus, (Phoenician), El, Elagabalus (Roman), Great Baal, Hadad, Melkart (“God of the City”), Rider of the Clouds.

Baal is a title meaning lord, or master. The Phoenicians used the title to disguise the real name of the god. They feared that strangers would win the god’s favor if they knew his true name. There were many local Baals. The greatest, known as the “Great Baal,” is the son of the Father of the gods, El, and brother of the god of seas and rivers, Yam-Nahar. Baal, known as “Rider of the Clouds,” is a fertility god representing the beneficent aspects of water as rain. His lightning and thunder depict his power, and the fertile earth his beneficence. In conflict with Yam-Nahar, who was El’s favored son, Baal eventually subdued him. After his victory, his home of cedar and brick seemed inappropriate. Baal wanted a grander dwelling, like the other gods. With his sister Anath, he approached Asherah, goddess of the sea and mate of El, and asked her to intercede on his behalf and make his request known to his father El. Permission was granted and it was decided that the abode would be constructed from the tree of Lebanon, the cedar of Antilebanon, and with lapis-lazuli, gold, and silver. Kothar-u-Khasis, the god of crafts, was called in to work on the project. Baal argued with the contractor, insisting that his home be built without windows. It is thought that he did not want Yam-Nahar to see him frolicking with his lovers. Kothar-u-Khasis prevailed and it was finally agreed that there would be a window in the edifice. This window was ostensibly for Baal to use to send out his thunder and lightning. Upon completion of the home, Baal arranged a magnificent celebration. A host of family, including Asherah’s seventy children, were invited. His father, El, had a new favorite: the god of the underworld and sterility, Mot, who represents aridity. Baal sent his messengers Gapn and Ugar to inform Mot that he was not invited to his celebration. Displeased, Mot returned a threatening message. Victorious over Yam-Nahar, Baal now had to deal with Mot. The message frightened him, and he responded that he was Mot’s slave forever. In one interpretation, Baal was devoured by Mot. Mot was then forced to regurgitate him by Baal’s sister, Anath, with the aid of Shapash. In another rendition, El, grief-stricken when he heard of his son’s death, wandered around lamenting and gashing himself. Anath searched for her brother and when she found his body Shapash helped her carry it to Mount Zaphon. A great funeral feast was held in his honor. Anath went in search of her brother’s murderer, Mot. When she found him, she brutally massacred him. After a time, El had a dream that Baal was still alive. Joyously, he announced the news to Anath and Shapash. His absence had left the soil dry and parched. Lady Asherah of the Sea had put her son Ashtar on the throne during Baal’s absence. He found that his feet would not touch the footstool, nor his head the top of the throne, so he declined to rule in the heights of Mount Zaphon. Baal was eventually found and restored to the throne. His battle with Mot was renewed. After an intense struggle, they both fell to the ground and were separated by Shapash. It appears that they came to a meeting of the minds for Baal was restored to his throne. Baal’s name as the god of thunder and lightning is Hadad. As Hadad, he sent monstrous creatures to attack Asherah and the moon god, Yarikh. They appealed to El for assistance. He advised them to hide in the wilderness and give birth to wild beasts so that Hadad would be distracted and chase the beasts. As forecast, Hadad hunted the monsters. He was captured by them and disappeared for seven years. During this period, the earth fell into what is described by some as chaos but may have been a severe draught. In a Canaanite myth, Anath is looking for Baal, and is told by his servants that he is hunting. She searches for him and when they meet he falls in love with her. Although she is in the shape of a cow, they have sex. From this union, a wild ox was born. Baal is portrayed as a bull, the emblem of animal and vegetable fertility. See also Anath; Asherah (B); Bod-Baal; El (the father god was the equivalent to Enlil and at times they were identified with each other); Hadad; Kothar and Khasis; Mot; Shapash; Yam-Nahar; Yarikh.

Baal Enet Mahartet (Ugarit)

Rain god.

Ba’al Hammon Baal Hammon (Carthage)

Also known as: Aleyn-baal.

Sky god. Fertility god. Husband of Tanit. He appears to have been worshiped along with Tanit Pene Ba’al (a little known goddess). Romans thought him to be the god Jupiter Ammon from Africa. He is shown as a bearded old man wearing ram’s horns on his head. The bull is a manifestation of Baal among the Canaanites. See also Aleyn-Baal; Baal; Tanit.

Ba’al Lebanon (Semite)

God of lightning, rain, and thunder. See also Baal.

Baal-Peor (Moabite) see Chemosh.

Baal Sapon (Canaanite, Hurrite, Syrian)

Ancient god similar to Jupiter.

Baal Shamin see Baalshamin.

Ba’al Shamin Balsamem, Balsamin, Balshamin, Balshameme, Belshim (Arabic, Armenian, Hittite, Phoenician, Semitic, Syrian)

Also known as: Baal, Adad.

“Lord of the World.” “Good and Rewarding God.” “Master of the Skies.” Ba’al is the head of the pantheon consisting of Dur-Europas, Hatra, Palmyra, Shahr and Shamash. His chief opponent is Vahagn. In some renditions, Vahagn was responsible for stealing Ba’al Shamin’s wife Astaik. As a Syrian deity, he was destroyed by the Armenian god, Aram. As an Armenian god, originally from Phoenicia, Ba’al Shamin is known for his heroic deeds. See also Adad; Aleyn-Baal; Armenak; Astaik; Baal; Vahagn.

Baal-Sutekh (Egypt) see Anat.

Ba’al Tsaphon (Semite) see Baal.

Ba’al-zebub Baalzebub, Baal-zebul, Beelzebub, Beelzebul (Semite)

Also known as: Fly.

Demon. Lord of Flies. Lord of Zebulon. God of the city of Ekron. Although frequently called Beezlebub, it is an incorrect name for him. Some writers say the early Hebrews changed the name of Yahveh to Ba’al-zebub because they couldn’t associate an idol with their god. He is similar to Satan. See also Baal.

Ba’al-zebul (Semitic) see Ba’al-zebub.

Ba’alat Baalat, Baalath (Semitic), (Phoenicia, later connected to the Egyptians and Semites)

Also known as: Baaltis, Belili, Beltis, Belit.

“The Lady.” “Queen of Gods.” Goddess of books, libraries, writers. She is the female equivalent of Baal. Her principal city is Byblos, which gave humans papyrus. (Papyrus was called Byblos by the Greeks, who then applied the same word to books.) She is depicted with an elaborate Egyptian hairstyle, wearing a tight robe, with shoulder straps. Her dress on a cylinder seal resembles that worn by the goddess Hathor. The Phoenicians depicted her generous body naked, with her hands covering her full breasts. She is sometimes identified with the Egyptians Isis and Hathor. Ba’alat corresponds to Baalti and Beltu. See also Cybele; Ishtar.

Baalath (Semite)

The female aspect of Baal. She is identical to Ba’alat, Baalti and Beltu.

Ba’alim (Semite) see Baal.

Baalim (Phoenician) see Baal.

Baalith (Middle East) see Belili.

Baalsamame (Phoenician) see Adad; Baal.

Baalshamin (Mesopotamian) see Ba’al Shamin.

Baalti Belti (Phoenician) see Belti.

Baalzebub (Phoenician) see Ba’al-zebub.

Baau (A) (Assyro-Babylonian) see Bau; Tiamat.

Baau (B) (Phoenician)

In the Creation Myth of “Philo Byblos,” she is the spouse of Kolpia, and the mother of Aion and Protogonos. See also Kolpia.

Bab (Egypt)

Also known as: Baba, Set, Seth.

Trickster. In legend, this roguish god upset the tribunal during the trial between Osiris and Seth. See also Neith.

Baba (Egypt)

Another name of the evil god Seth. The name generally means parent or father. See also Ab.

Baba Yaga Baba Jaga (Russian, Slavic)

Deity of the dead. Baba Yaga is a thunder witch and the grandmother of the Devil. This supernatural hag lives in a house with a picket fence tipped with skulls. She rides through the sky in an iron cauldron and sweeps away the traces of her passage with her broom. (Some say her chariot is a mortar and pestle.) She eats or petrifies her victims. See also Bertha (German).

Babas (Armenia)

An ancient Armenian deity. The name may just mean “father.” See also Ab; Baba.

Babbar (Sumer)

He is the sun god of Larsa, and a member of the earliest Sumerian pantheon. See also Shamash; Utu.

Babhru-Vahana Babru-Vahana (India)

He is the son of Arjuna and Chitrangada. See also Arjuna.

Babru-Vahana (India) see Babhru-Vahana.

Babusum (Saora People, India)

This guardian god rides on a horse through each village nightly. See also Ajorasum.

Babylonian — Creation Legend (from Berosus) see Belus (C).

Babylonian — Creation Legends (from Damascius) see Aus; Belus (C).

Babylonian — Creation Legend (Chinese, Greek) see Chaos.

Bacab (Maya) see Becabs.

Bacchantes Bassarids (Greek) see Dionysus; Maenads.

Bacchus Bakchos, Bakkhos (Roman, Arabic, Egypt, Ethiopia, Greek, Phoenicia, Roman, Semite)

Also known as: Dionysus (Greek), Iacchus, Lakchos, Liber, Orotal, Salmoxis, Zalmoxis.

Originally a nature god. Later a god of wine and revelry. Fertility god. The worship of Bacchus was carried into Greece where he became the Greek Dionysus. However, he was also known as Bacchus (indicating noisy and rowdy) by the Greeks and Romans. The eternally youthful Bacchus represents the social and beneficent aspects of wine, as well as its intoxicating properties. He is the son of Semeie and Jupiter. Semeie had encouraged Jupiter to come to her in his divine splendor. He reluctantly agreed. When he appeared before her as thunder, she was killed by lightning. Jupiter was able to save their unborn child, Bacchus. After the death of Semeie, Jupiter placed Bacchus with the Nysaean nymphs. While growing up he became familiar with the properties of grape growing. Juno, the enemy of his mother, struck Bacchus with madness. Bacchus set off in his altered consciousness to wander the earth. The goddess Rhea cured him in Phrygia. He left the area and traveled through Asia and India teaching the people how to cultivate the grape vine. When he returned to Greece, the rulers, particularly Pentheus, who feared the negative effects of the grape juice, refused to receive him. Pentheus’ mother, Agave, and her friends, members of the Bacchus cult, were extremely unhappy with his stance. Likely in a highly inebriated state and full of anger, she tore her son Pentheus apart. At another time in Bacchus’ travels he was on a ship en route to Asia. The sailors, who were really pirates, came up with the idea that they could make extra money by selling Bacchus into slavery. They threatened Bacchus, who was not happy with their plan. Using his skills as a deity, he changed himself into a ferocious lion. The ship, at his command, became a vessel of serpents with jungle-thick plant life covering it. When he added music to the air, he terrified the pirates. They plummeted to their deaths in the sea where they became sweet, docile dolphins. Bacchus is shown in purple robes in peacetime and wearing panther skins in time of war. In early representation he was a pillar of stone and is sometimes shown as a goat. The goat is a symbol of fertility as well as lasciviousness, agility, and sociability. It also symbolizes stupidity and stench. He is also depicted seated in a chariot drawn by panthers, leopards or tigers. He is crowned with vine leaves, and is surrounded by a group of intoxicated satyrs and nymphs. The staff is his attribute as it is for Asclepius, Dionysus, Hermes and Mercury. The symbolism of the staff represents support or an instrument of punishment. Red wine symbolizes blood and sacrifice, as well as youth and eternal life. The grape represents fertility and sacrifice, for from the grape comes the wine. Bacchus is the personification of the sun as ripener. The ass was sacred to Bacchus as well as Silenus. This animal symbolized wisdom and prophetic powers. The bull with a human face represents Bacchus. (Pan wore the ears of an ass to indicate acute perception.) Compare Bacchus to Set (Egypt), for whom the ass was an insignia. Sometimes Bacchus is identified with Liber. See also Bes; Dionysus; Juno; Maenads; Rhea; Satyrs; Semeie; Silenus.

Bach-ma (Indo-China) see Ma-Mien.

Bachis (Egypt) see Buchis.

Bachue (Chibcha People, Colombia, South America)

Also known as: Turachogue.

Goddess of water. Goddess of farming. Protector of vegetation and harvest. Bachue emerged from her home under the waters of Lake Iguaque bearing a small boy with whom she later mated. They had four or six children, although some myths say they created the human race. When she was content that mortals could live without her, she transformed herself and her mate into dragons. They returned to their home in the lake, where they still reside. See also Bochica; Chiminagua.

Backlum Chaam (Maya)

God of male sexuality. One of the Becabs, he is similar to Priapus of the Greeks (who is originally from Asia). See also Acat; Becabs.

Badari Bhadri-Nath (Hindu; India)

An ancient title for Shiva, later given to Vishnu as Lord of Badari, a shrine on the Ganges. Durga was called Bhandrakali. The name is connected with Bhadra or Bhandra which means “piety.” In the Maratha country he was worshiped as Bhadra Vira. Under this name, he is depicted with the sun and moon, and is mounted on Nandi, the sacred cow. The goat-headed Daksha accompanies him. Badari is armed with a bow and arrow, sword, spear, and shield. See also Daksha; Durga; Nandi; Shiva; Vishnu.

Badava (India) see Vadava.

Badb Catha (Celtic, Irish)

Also known as: Badb, Badhbh, Battle Raven, Cauth Bodva (“War Fury,” Gaul), Morrigu (possibly).

“Battle Raven.” Goddess of war. Goddess of death. Storm goddess (possibly). Death is eminent when the Celtic fury Badb Catha appears. After the Battle of Moytura when the Tuatha De Danann’s fought and drove away the Formonians, Badb recounted the event and prophesied doom. There is a possibility that Badb Catha is an incarnation of the goddess Morrigu. Badb later deteriorated into the Banshee. She is usually depicted as a crow, sometimes as a bear, wolf, cow, a foul hag, a gigantic woman, or a beautiful young woman. See also Banshee; Bean-Nighe; Morrigu.

Badessy (Dahomey People, Africa; Haiti)

Sky god. Badessy is a minor deity who was worshiped along with the male deities called hougouns and the females called mambos.

Baduh (Semite)

Invoked by writing the numerals 8, 6, 4, 2, (these numerals represent the letters in the Arabic alphabet that form his name), Baduh insures that messages are quickly delivered.

Baduhenna (Teutonic)

Goddess of war and storm goddess.

Baeldaeg (Teutonic) see Balder.

Bafur Bavor (Teutonic) see Dwarfs.

Bag-Mashtu (Iranian; possibly a local god of the earlier Urartian people)

Also known as: Bag-Mazda

Sky deity. He is often confused or identified with Ahura Mazda. There is a possibility that he is an ancient form of that god. Bagos Papaios, the Phrygian sky god, might be associated with Bag-Mashtu. See also Bagos Papaios; Khaldi.

Bag-Mazda (Persia) see Ahura Mazda.

Bagadjimbiri (Aborigine People, Australia)

Creators. They are two heavenly brothers who created everything. They started out as Dingos (wild dogs), but changed to giants, whose heads touched the sky. They had a great deal of hair that they pulled out and gave to every tribe. They were killed by a man, but Dilga, their mother, detected the odor of the corpses and sent the milk from her breasts underground to where they lay. It revived them and killed the man. The brothers eventually became water snakes.

Bagavatcbi (India) see Parvati.

Bagos Papaios (Pyrygian)

Sky deity. This little known deity of the early Pyrygian people might have been worshiped with the earth goddess, Semeie. She is possibly identified with Kybele and Ma. See also Bag-Mashtu; Semeie.

Bahman (Persia) see Vohu Manah.

Bahram (Islamic) Protector of travelers. See also Verethraghna.

Bahu (India) see Bau; Bohu; Sagara.

Bai Ulgan Bai-Ylgon (Altaic, Tartars)

Also known as: Kudai Bai-ulgon.

A high god, his name means “Most Grand.” He lives in the sixteenth heaven on the Golden Mountain. His three sons are Pyrshak-khan, Tos-khan, and Suilap. Two of his grandsons, Kyrgys-khan and Sary-khan, are gods of happiness. Later, he was replaced by Tengere Kaira Kan, to whom horse sacrifices were offered. See also Tangri.

Bai-Ylgon (Altaic, Tartars) see Bai Ulgan.

Baiame (Aborigine People, Australia)

Also known as: B-Iame, Biamban, Birral, Bunjil, Byamee, Daramulun, Kohin, Koin, Maamba, Munganngaua, Nurelli, Nurrundere.

Father of all things and master of life and death, Baiame resides in a sky palace constructed of fresh water and quartz crystal. It is generally thought that at one time he lived on earth. Invisible, sometimes he appears as a human in the form of an old man. He is the father of Daramulun. Sometimes he is depicted as an old man sitting with his legs under him or sometimes asleep. Baiame, the force of good, is opposed by the Darawigal, the force of evil. See also Bunjil; Daramulun; Nurrundere.

Baidya-isvar (India) see Shiva.

Baidya-nith Byju-Nath (Hindu; India)

Little is known about this ancient deity, but some say Shiva changed his name to Byju to please an aboriginal worshiper at the shrine of Baidya-Nath. As Baidya is also the name for some of the peaks of the hills, it could signify Baidya-nith as a deity of the hills or mountains.

Bairam (Persia)

A later name for the god of victory Verethraghna (q.v.).

Bairavi (India) “The Terrible.” See also Kali.

Baiynhibi (Indonesia)

God of clouds, fog and rain. Creator of mountains and valleys.

Baj Bajaniai Bajanai (Yakut People, Siberia)

Forest god. God of hunters. His tears are rain and his voice the wind. In some instances, his game herd is called Baj Bajaniai.

Bajanai (Siberia) see Baj Bajaniai.

Bajang Badjang (Malaysia)

A malignant spirit who foretells disaster.

Bak (India) see Vach.

Bakasura (India) A demon. See also Krishna.

Bakchos (Greek) see Bacchus.

Bakh (Egypt) see Buchis.

Bakha (Egypt) see Buchis.

Bakkhos (Greek) see Bacchus.

Bala-Bhadra (India) see Bala-Rama.

Bala-Deva (India) see Bala-Rama.

Bala-Hadra (India) see Bala-Rama.

Bala-Rama (Vedic, Hindu; India) Balarama

Also known as: Bala-Bhadra, Bala-Deva, Bala-Hadra, Gupta-Chara, Hala-Bhrit, Hala-Yudha, Halayudha (Whose Weapon Is a Ploughshare), Kam-Pala, Langali, Madhupriya (Friend of the Wine), Musali, Nila-Vastra, Sankashana, Sesha, Silappadikaram (Tamil People, India).

Bala-Rama, the god of shepherds and ploughers, is the elder brother of Krishna. It had been ordained by the gods that order had to be restored to the earth. Vishnu, therefore, created an avatar of himself in the form of Krishna to combat the forces of evil. Vishnu plucked a white hair from Seshu the serpent that would become Bala-Rama and a black hair from his body that would become Krishna. These hairs were placed in the womb of Devaki, the wife of Vasudeva. When the demon Kansa heard about the impending birth of forces that would kill him, he ordered that Devaki’s first six children be slaughtered. Bala-Rama was transferred to the womb of Rohini, the other wife of Vasudeva. The demon Kansa was told that Devaki had miscarried. When Bala-Rama was older, he ploughed the course of the river Yamuna with his ploughshare Hala, and created all things with his club, named Khetaka (also named Saunanda), and Musala, his pestle. Bala-Rama shared many of Krishna’s adventures and assisted him in slaying many demons. He instructed Bhima and Duryodhana in the skills of warfare. Later, in the great war of the Mahabharata, he rescued Krishna’s son Samba from Duryodhana. He did not participate in the battle between his cousins, the Kauravas and the Pandavas. King Raivata thought that his daughter Revati was too beautiful to be the wife of a mortal. He searched for and found the god Bala-Rama. Bala-Rama and Revati had two sons, Nishatha and Ulmuka. In the Vaishnava tradition, Bala-Rama is considered Vishnu’s eighth avatar instead of Krishna, who is considered a god in his own right. Others say that Bala-Rama is an avatar of Vishnu’s endless, thousand-headed serpent, Sesha. When he died, under the Banyan tree in Krishna’s celestial abode Dvarka, Sesha slithered out of his mouth and flew to Vishnu’s ocean. A marvelous funeral was held for Krishna and Bala-Rama. When Vasudeva, Devaki and Rohini heard of Krishna’s death, they died of grief. Krishna’s eight primary wives, Bala-Rama’s wives, and King Ugrasena threw themselves on the funeral pyre and burned to death. Bala-Rama is described as being of fair complexion and wearing a blue vest. Compare Bala-Rama to Heracles. See also Bana; Bhima; Devaki; Duryodhana; Jagannath; Kaliya; Kansa; Kauravas; Krishna; Pandavas; Sesha; Sisupala; Syamantaka; Yami.

Balam (Quiche People, Central America)

A jaguar god. See also Gucumatz.

Balam-Agab (Maya) see Xumucane.

Balam-Quitze (Maya) see Xumucane.

Balamma (India)

She is one of the Mutyalammo goddesses who are deities of the household. Her function is to preside over the family carts. See also Mutyalammo.

Balams (Quiche People, Central America)

The Balams are the ancestor gods of the Quiche. See also Gucumatz.

Balan (Celtic) see Bel (B).

Balandhara (India) see Bhima (A).

Balarama (India) see Bala-Rama.

Balbog (Slavic)

Also known as: Belbogh, Bjelbog.

Sun god. He is often called the “Pale One,” or the “Shining One.” Balbog is similar to Balder.

Baldag (Teutonic) see Balder.

Balder Baldr, Baldur (Norse; Teutonic)

Also known as: Baeldaeg, Baldag, Beldeg, Beldegg, Paitar, Wodan (later Germanic form).

Sun god. God of innocence and piety. Balder is the son of Odin and Frigga, and the brother of Hermod. Nanna is his wife and their child is Forseti, the dispenser of justice. Balder lives in his zodiacal house, Breidablik, which corresponds to the sign of Gemini, the twins. When Balder had a series of troubling nightmares about death, he reported them to the Aesir council. The goddess Frigga listed all things and commanded that nothing would harm Balder, but she neglected to include mistletoe. In one myth, Loki the jealous fire god and trickster was aware of Frigga’s omission. He persuaded the blind god of darkness, Hodur, to throw either the mistletoe branch, or sprig, or a spear, or in some myths, a magic sword named Mistelteinn. It hit Balder and he fell dead. His ship, Hringhorn, became his funeral pyre. Nanna committed suicide. Odin’s son Hermod, who was a messenger for the gods, took his father’s horse Sleipnir, and rode it to Hel in an attempt to rescue Balder. In one myth he offers to pay a ransom for Balder’s return. Hel agreed, with the stipulation that everything in the world, dead and alive, must weep for Balder. The magic ring, Draupnir, which had been placed on his funeral pyre, was given to Hermod by Balder, to be given to Odin. Nanna, who also had a magic ring, gave it to Hel to give to Fulla. Hermod returned to earth where everything dead and alive wept for Balder, except for Loki, the trickster fire god, who had disguised himself as a female giant named Thok. Balder could not return to earth. He is expected to return with several other gods and two humans after Ragnarok (also known as “The Twilight of the Gods”). Balder’s death was avenged by Vali who is a son of Odin and Rind. Balder is depicted as a very handsome man. Balder is associated with Heimdall (q.v.). He corresponds to the Slavic Byelobog, and is similar to the Slavic god Balbog (qq.v.). See also Aesir; Asmegir Citadel; Balbog; Boe; Breidablik; Draupnir; Forseti; Frigga; Hel; Hermod; Hodur; Loki; Miming; Nanna (A); Njord; Ragnarok; Rind; Skadi; Sleipner; Thok; Thor; Vali; Vanir; Wodan.

Baldr (Teutonic) see Balder.

Baldur (Teutonic) see Balder.

Baleyg (Teutonic)

“One with Flaming Eyes.” Another name for Odin.

Bali (A) Balin, Wali, Valin (Hindu; India)

The giant ape and monkey prince Bali is the son of Indra and the half-brother of Sugriva. They shared the same mother, who was a monkey queen. Bali had a long and powerful tail. Once, the king of the demons, Ravana, came up behind him and grasped it as Bali was performing ablutions. Without missing a beat, Bali used his tail to tie Ravana’s hands and feet. He set out on a jaunt to visit the western, eastern and northern oceans with the demon held captive on his tail. He kept him that way for twelve years. As the son of Indra, he was endowed with more power than Sugriva. He had the ability to look at anyone and assume half of that person’s strength. He usurped his brother from the throne and held reign as King of the Monkeys until he was killed by Rama. His spouse was Tara, also known as Dara, and he had a son, Angada. See also Indra; Rama; Ravana; Sugriva.

Bali (B) Baly (Brahman, Hindu; India)

He is the demon grandson of Prahlada; son of Virochana; spouse of Vindhyavali; and the father of Bana (also called Vairochi), the demon with a thousand arms, and a daughter Putana, who had poisonous breasts. His austere devotions earned him the authority to reign over the three worlds known as Triloka. Triloka consists of akasa (heaven) where the sun shines but there are no clouds, apas (atmosphere) where clouds are found, and vasumdhara (earth) where mortals are generally found. His power was a threat to the gods, so Vishnu, in his dwarf avatar as Vamana, asked Bali if he could have as much land as he could cover with three steps. When Bali consented, Vamana immediately assumed his cosmic size as Vishnu and with one step covered the earth from one end to the other. His second step covered the heavens. His third step could have covered the entire underworld but he left the lowest portion, known as Patala, for Bali. In another legend, a battle took place between Indra and the demons led by Jalandhara. Bali was struck, and when he fell, a flood of jewels came from his mouth. Indra threw his vajra (thunderbolt) at him and ripped him to pieces. Because of his severe austerities and pure conduct, precious jewels came from various parts of his body and his blood was changed to rubies. See also Bana; Daityas; Krishna; Nara-Simha; Patala; Prahlada; Surya; Vamana; Vishnu.

Balin (Celtic) see Bel (B).

Balius (Greek)

This immortal horse and his brother, Xanthus, belonged to Achilles. They are the sons of Boreas and Podarge, the Harpy. See also Achilles; Boreas; Harpies; Podarge; Xanthus; Zephyrus.

Balmarcodes (Phoenician)

God of revelry and the dance. He is probably another form of Hadad. See also Hadad.

Balmung (Teutonic)

Also known as: Gram.

The dwarfs fashioned this magic sword for Siegfried. See also Sigurd.

Baloi (Basuto People, Australia)

The Baloi haunt graves. They are also known for working harmful magic on an extracted tooth and on the person who previously owned the tooth.

Bal’or (Celtic) see Balor.

Balor Bal’or (Celtic, Irish)

“Evil Eye.” King of the Fomorians. The god Balor is the monster son of Buarainech and the grandson of Net. One of his eyes had been poisoned. Everything he glanced at could be destroyed. This one-eyed monster was the champion of the Fomorians. He was killed by a stone from the sling of his grandson, Lugh, that hit him in his only eye and scattered his brains in all directions. This took place at the second Battle of Moytura. His corpse was hung on the sacred hazel tree. Since that time, the tree has dripped poison. Balor now lives under the sea. Compare him to the Greek Acrisius. See also Cian; Dagda; Lugh; Yspaddaden (Welsh).

Balsamem (Mesopotamia) see Adad; Baal; Ba’al Shamin.

Balshameme (Mesopotamia) see Adad; Baal, Ba’al Shamin.

Balshamin (Mesopotamia) see Adad; Ba’al Shamin.

Baltein (Celtic, Irish) see Beltine.

Baltis (Phoenician)

Cronus gave the city of Byblos to this goddess. See also Dione.

Balubaale (Africa)

Spirit beings of the Bantu people of Africa. Some say this is a collective name for all the gods of earth, death, lightning, plague and the rainbow. See also Kibuuka; Mukasa.

Balujen (Tinguian People, Philippine Islands) see Adam.

Baly (India) see Bali (B).

Bamun Owtar (India)

An avatar of Vamana (q.v.)

Bana Vairochi (Hindu; India)

Bana, a demon with one thousand arms, is son of Bali and brother of a sister, Putana. She is the demon who nursed Krishna with her poisoned breasts and was subsequently killed by the god. Bana’s daughter Usha was in love with Krishna’s grandson Aniruddha. Bana brought the couple together by using his magic powers. Krishna and Bala-Rama attacked Bana. Skanda (also known as Karttikeya) and Shiva attempted to protect him, but Skanda was injured and Bana’s arms were cut off. Krishna and Shiva engaged in a fight which Krishna won. Shiva pleaded with Krishna to spare Bana and his wish was granted. Bana is usually shown with multiple arms, riding in a chariot drawn by lions. See also Bala-Rama; Bali (B); Karttikeya; Krishna; Shiva; Usha.

Banaded (Egypt) see Banebdedet.

Banalingas (Hindu; India)

Sacred stones, small and elliptical with a natural polish produced by the action of the river water. They are frequently found in the Narmada river, one of the sacred rivers of the Hindus, and are used as a symbol for Shiva.

Banana (Sumer)

The coachman for the sun-god Shamash.

Banba (Celtic) see Banbha.

Banbha (Celtic, Irish)

Also known as: Banba.

Death goddess. Banbha, according to an ancient document, is said to be the first person to settle in Ireland. At that time it was known as “the Island of Banbha of the Women,” or “Banbha of Fair Women.” In some myths, her father is Cain and in others, Dagda. Her sisters are Erui and Fotia, said to be the daughters of Cain. The three, known as the “Goddesses of Sovereignty,” were worshiped as triple goddesses. Following Banbha’s arrival on the island came Cessair and her group. They died, leaving one survivor. The race of Giants, known as Fomorians, followed and they were defeated by the Partholanians from Spain. They, too, died, save one, and the Nemeds, also from Spain, came ashore. The Fomorians regrouped and subdued the Nemeds until the advent of the Firbolgs, who came from Greece via Spain. They battled the Fomorians but were in turn conquered by the Tuatha De Danann. Banbha was the goddess-queen of the Tuatha De Danann; she and her sisters were married to the kings: Mac Cuill, Mac Cecht, and Mac Greine, who are also known as the “Kings of Tara.” Amergin, the poet and judge of the Milesians (also spelled Melesians), was allowed to bring his people to the island after promising the goddesses to name an island after each of them. They opposed the Milesians with magic but were overcome by them. Compare Banbha to Morrigu. The Milesians are thought by some to have been the original Celts. They are shown with bird-like characteristics. The name Banbha means “pig,” which is connected to cults of the dead. See also Amergin; Bress; Cessair; Dagda; Firbolgs; Fomorians; Partholanians; Tuatha De Danann.

Baneb Djedet (Egypt) see Banebdedet.

Banebdedet (Egypt) Banaded

Also known as: Ba Neb Tetet, Baneb Djedet, Binded.

A local deity, who later acquired greater status, Banebdedet is a god of arbitration. During creation Banebdedet settled an argument between Horus and Set by having them write a letter to the goddess Neith for her opinion. Banebdedet is a member of the Mendean Triad with Hetmehit and Harpakhrad. He is depicted as ram, or goat-headed. See also Horus; Neith; Set.

Banitu (Assyro-Babylonian) see Ishtar.

Banka-Mundi (Khond People, India)

Goddess of hunting.

Bannik (Slavic, Russian)

Spirit of the Bath. Bannik is one of a group of household spirits known as Domovoi. He is the spirit of the bath and he lives in the out-house. He allows only three bathers to enter. He is the fourth, and if someone tries to take his place in line, he pours hot water on the person. Bannik can foretell the future. To do so, the subject must place his or her naked buttocks through the half-open door of the bath house and wait. If caressed softly, the future will be bright, but if clawed, it is a bad omen. He is depicted as a wizened little character with straggly white hair and a beard. Sometimes Bannik lives under the toilet seat. The bather is advised to leave a little bath water and soap for Bannik in case he decides to bathe. There are instances when Bannik takes up residence under the stove. See also Chlevnik; Domovoi; Kikimora; Ovinnik.

Ban’shee (Celtic) see Banshee.

Banshee Ban’shee, Banshie. (Celtic, Irish, Scots)

Also known as: Ban’sith (Gaelic), Bansith, Baobhan Sith, Bean-Nighe (Scotland), Bean Si, Bean-Sidhe (Irish), Caoineag, Caointeach.

Banshee is presented by some as a female fairy and by others as a wind or death spirit. Originally, she may have been a princess of the Celtic hill people. When her wail is heard under one’s window, it foretells death in the house. She is depicted wearing a grey cloak over a green dress. Her hair is long and streaming, and she has red eyes from weeping. Sometimes she appears as a beautiful woman. The Bean-Nighe of Scottish Highlands is more like a female ghost who died in childbirth, although she is called a water spirit and seer. She appears as a small-boned woman with long breasts who dresses in green. You can’t mistake her. She has one nostril, one tooth, and red, webbed feet. If you can grab and suck one of her breasts, you will be granted any wish. Baobhan Sith is similar to Banshee but is a dangerous kind of succubus who is similar to a fairy rather than a god.

Banshie (Celtic) see Banshee.

Ban’sith (Gaelic) see Banshee.

Bansith (Gaelic) see Banshee.

Banyan Tree (India)

Sacred tree. See also Apsarases; Bala-Rama.

Baobhan Sith (Celtic) see Banshee.

Bar (Akkadian) see Adar.

Bara (A) (Aborigine People, Australian)

God of the northwest winds. He brings the monsoons from November to March. During the rest of the year he resides in a large hollow tree. It is believed that spirit children riding in on Bara’s winds hide in the grass until they see the woman who will become their mother. See also Maijunga, the god of the dry season.

Bara (B) (Babylonian) see Baragulla.

Baragulla (Babylonian)

Also known as: Bara.

The son of Ea, Baragulla is an oracle god who reveals the future. See also Ea.

Barashakushu (Babylonia) see Marduk.

Barbeio (Gnostic)

Mother Goddess. Feminine power derived from the primordial father. She is the mother of Ialdabaoth or Sabaoth. Barbelo is associated with the Archons. Her origin is dated circa C.E. 150–180. Her name probably originated from the Gnostics who came from either Syria or Egypt. See also Archons; Sabizios.

Bardad (Semite) see Adad.

Barhishmati (India)

Daughter of the divine architect Visvakarma and sister of Sanja. See also Sanja; Viskvakarma.

Barku (Syria) see Rimmon.

Baron Cimetiere, Baron La Croix, Baron Piquant (Haitian)

Names used for Ghede, god of the dead. See also Ghede.

Barshamina (Mesopotamia) see Baal; Ba’al Shamin.

Bas (Egypt) see Bast.

Basileus (Greek) “The King.” An epithet of Zeus.

Basilisk (Gnostic)

Deified creature. This frightening-looking lizard is able to run on water. Those who annoy it can be frozen in their tracks by its angry glare. It is generally found by those who are not looking for it in the inaccessible regions of the Swiss Alps and the African deserts. It has the body and wings of a dragon and the head of a serpent. It is usually shown with its tail in its mouth. Sometimes it is depicted as half cock and half snake. Basilisk is connected with Gnostic Abraxas in that Agathodemon or “good spirit” was said to have hatched by a cock from a serpent’s egg. See also Abraxas.

Bassareus Bassarides (Greek)

They are the followers of Dionysus. See also Dionysus.

Bast Bas (Egypt)

Thought by some to be of Semitic or Phoenician origin (perhaps connected with the Hebrew Bosheth).

Also known as: Bastet; Bubastis; Oubastet; Pakht; Pasht; Sekhmet.

Cat goddess of life, fruitfulness, pleasure, music, dance and cats. Bast is the mother of Mahes and wife of Bes (Bas). Bes was a form of Set (evil god of night), and she was a form of Sekhmet (a ferocious lion-headed goddess of sunset and fiery heat who is the daughter of the sun-god Ra). In another rendition, she is the wife of Ra and mother of Hes (a form of Horus). She is also regarded as the mother of the lion-god Miysis (lord of slaughter). Bast was worshipped at Bubastis in early times. During Bast’s festival, it was forbidden to hunt lions according to an inscription of Rameses IV. Bast was known as the “Eye of the Moon.” She is known by the Greeks as Artemis or possibly Pasht. As a male god, he might have been connected with Bosheth (a name of Baal). He was also thought to be a form of Set. As the male deity, Bes, or Bas, is the god of laughter. Because of this confusion, Bast was also thought to be a goddess of pleasure. She corresponds to the goddess Hathor. She is also identified with Artemis, Baal and Typhon. Sometimes she is confused with Mut and Sekhmet. Bast is represented as a cat-headed woman holding in her right hand either a sistrum or an aegis, and in her left hand, a basket. Sometimes, she is depicted as a cat. A bronze figure in the British Museum shows her holding her aegis in her left hand and a Hathor-headed sistrum in her right hand. See also Bes; Bosheth; Hathor; Mut; Sekhmet; Uadjit.

Bastet (Egypt) Festival of. See also Bast.

Basti (Egypt) see Assessors.

Bata (Egypt)

Also known as: Bet.

Agricultural deity. He is a farmer god who looks like a mummified bull or ram. Possibly connected with Anubis.

Batara Guru (Sumatra)

Unhappy because they did not have children, Batara Guru and his wife moved to a hut by the sea and planted a garden. They hoped that by living a simple life they would have a family. Batara Guru’s garden was destroyed by a serpent. When he tried to chase the serpent away, the serpent refused to leave until Batara Guru gave him food. He propped the serpent’s mouth open and gave him nourishment. When Batara Guru withdrew his hand there was a ring on his finger. The ring enabled he and his wife to have children. The earth was created by one of his sons. It hung on cords from the sky. However, the earth kept light from reaching the god of the underworld. He was so furious that he destroyed the earth. Seven times his son attempted to recreate the earth. On the eighth attempt, with the help of Batara Guru, they were successful. They placed the earth on pillars. The underworld god shows his anger from time to time by causing earthquakes.

Bateia (A) (Greek)

Mother of the Trojan People. She is the daughter of Teucer, king of Phrygia and wife of Dardanus. Her children are Erichtonius and Ilus. See also Dardanus; Erichtonius.

Bateia (B) (Greek)

A Naiad. She could be the mother of Hippocoon, Icarius and Tyndareus by Oebaulus, the king of Sparta. The other possibility is Gorgophone (q.v.). See also Hippocoon; Icarius.

Bath (Egypt) see Ab-ta.

Bati Khan (Toda People, India) Hunting god.

Bato Kannon (Japan) see Amida.

Bato-Kwannon (Japan) see Amida.

Battle of the Trees (Celtic) see Amathon.

Battle Raven (Celtic)

A name for the goddess of war, Badb Catha.

Battle Shaker (Teutonic)

Another name for Vigrid, the plain where the Norse gods will fight on the day of Ragnarok. See also Vigrid.

Bau Ba’u (Akkadian, Babylonian, Phoenician, Sumerian)

Also known as: Baau (possibly), Bahu, Bohu, Gula, Gur, Ninhursag, Ninki.

“Goddess of the Dark Waters.” A primeval goddess, early references refer to her as the mother of Ea. She was Anu’s spouse, the first wife of Ninib, the wife of Ningirsu. Sometimes she is referred to as the sister of Enlil. In some accounts, she is the wife of Ninurta. She is also said to be the consort of Tam-muz. Most references to Bau are in relation to Ninurta. In Babylonia, at the end of harvest, a festival was held to celebrate the sacred marriage of Bau and Ningirsu. The festivities also ensured bountiful crops for the following year. She is possibly a water or creator goddess who preceded Tiamat, and is identified with Gula. She may be the same as the Phoenician goddess Baau. In later times, she was replaced by Ishtar. See also Bohu; Gula; Ninhursag; Tiamat.

Baubo Babo (Greek)

Also known as: Ceres (Roman).

Baubo was Demeter’s nurse while she was mourning for her lost daughter Persephone, whom Hades had abducted. Baubo had the reputation for telling indecent jokes. She is depicted without a head or limbs. Her breasts appear as eyes and her genitals are shaped like a bearded mouth. Some scholars believe Baubo to be the same as Hecate (q.v.). She is similar to the Japanese Uzume (q.v.). See also Ceres; Demeter; Persephone.

Baucis (Greek)

Baucis is the wife of Philemon of Bithynia. While in their golden years of marriage, they received an unexpected visit from the great god Zeus and the messenger of the gods Hermes. The elderly couple were not aware that their visitors were gods or that they had been turned away from other shelters. They invited the gods into their home and made them comfortable. For their unselfish act they were saved from the Deluge. Their unpretentious cottage was turned into a magnificent palace. After death, Baucis became a linden tree and Philemon an oak tree. They were planted in front of the doors of the temple.

Baugi (Teutonic; Norse)

He is the giant brother of Sattung. When Odin, disguised as Bolverk, was on his journey to Jotun-heim to find the mead of poetry, he worked for Baugi. Sattung guarded the mead made from Kvasir’s blood. The mead was distilled in the magic cauldron, Odraerir. The drinker of Kvasir was given the gifts of wisdom and poetry. Odin tricked Sattung into giving him the secret recipe for the production of Kvasir. See also Aesir; Bolverk; Jotun-heim; Kvasir; Odin; Odraerir; Sattung.

Baugreginn (Teutonic) see Mimir.

Baumbur (Teutonic) see Bombor.

Bavor (Teutonic) see Bafur.

Bayl (Sumer) see Bel.

Baze (Greek) see Athene.

bDe-mch-og-dpal-kor-lo-dom-pa (Tibet) see Dorje Phagmo.

bDug-spos-ma (Tibet) see Dhupa.

bDul-Rgal (Tibet) King of Demons.

Bealtuinn (Celtic) see Beltine.

Bean Si (Celtic) see Banshee.

Bean-Nighe (Scots) see Banshee.

Beann (Egypt) see Benu.

Beanu (Egypt) see Benu.

Beav (Teutonic) see Vali.

Becabs Bacabab, Becab (Maya, possibly Toltec)

Also known as: Acantun, Cantul-ti-ku, Four Wind Gods, Pillars of Heaven, Water Sprinklers.

Wind gods. Deities of agriculture, rain, and fertility. Patrons of beekeepers. Representatives of the four winds, the four cardinal points, and one-quarter each of the 260-day calendar. The Mayan earth, created by the omnipotent god Hunab Ku, was flat and four-cornered. Above the earth are the thirteen levels of the upperworld, and below, nine levels of the underworld. Fashioned by Hunab Ku to hold up the heavens are the four Becabs. One list of their names, positions, and colors states that Cauac is in the south, his color is red. Ix is in the west, his color is black. Kan is in the east, his color is yellow. And Mulac is in the north, his color is white. Sometimes the lists of point names differ. These four gigantic gods are variously known as Acantun, “Water Sprinklers,” “Four Wind Gods” and “Pillars of Heaven.” Acantun is also the name used for the pillars or stones erected for the Becabs. As seasonal deities, the first Bacab is blue (some say yellow) for the south. The second is red for the east, the third white for the north, and the fourth black for the west. Each Becab also presided over one-quarter of the 260-day calendar. The Becabs are the divine intercessors for beekeepers. During Zotz, the fourth month, owners of beehives prepared for their feast, which was held in Tzec, the fifth month. The Becabs were consulted to determine the most auspicious day to hold the annual ceremony during their festival period. The brothers are often shown as old men with upraised arms. They are personified by animals and human-headed water jars. The Becabs are closely associated with the four Chacs. In another interpretation, Hunab Ku created the rain god Itzamna and his consort Ixchel, the goddess of childbirth, medicine, and weaving. They became the parents of all other deities, including the Becabs. In each case, when the deluge destroyed the world, the four Becabs escaped. Another Mayan belief to consider is that the sky is held up by four different species of trees, each tree a different color. In the center stands the green ceiba tree (also called the silk-cotton tree). See also Acat; Acatl; Backlum Chaam; Tahuantin Suyu Kapac.

Beda (Teutonic) An Asynor. See also Aesir.

Beelsamin (Phoenician).

A lord of the sky similar to the Greek Zeus (q.v.).

Beelzebub (Semite) see Ba’al-Zebub.

Beelzebul (Semite) see Ba’al-Zebub.

Befana (Roman)

Also known as: Befana, La Strega, La Vecchia, Saint Befana.

Spirit. An old woman who is as kind as she is ugly. Each January 5 she distributes sweets to good children and lumps of coal to naughty children. Befana is possibly a corruption of Epiphania or Epiphany. See also Bertha.

Begelmir (Norse; Teutonic)

Survivors of the flood. When Ymir flooded the earth with his own blood, the Begelmir, a husband and wife team, were the only survivors.

Begochiddy (Navajo People, North America)

A great god.

Behdety (Egypt)

Also known as: Apollo (Greek), Hor Beditite, Hor Behdetite, Horus.

Another name for Horus. As Behdety, he was worshiped at Behdet in ancient Edfu. He led the forces of Ra-Horakte against Set. Behdety is falcon-headed and is depicted with the winged disk of the sun. He is often shown in the form of a winged solar disk or a falcon with outstretched wings. His claws hold a fly-whisk and a ring. See also Horus; Set.

Bekotshidi (Navaho People, North America) see Klehanoai.

Bel (A) (Babylonian, Sumer)

Also known as: Aleyn-baal, Bayl, Belit, Enlil, Marduk.

A title meaning “lord.” The Babylonians gave the title Bel to Marduk, calling him Bel-Marduk or simply Bel. When the deities of the Sumerians were integrated with their own, the god Enlil became identified with Bel. Belit, the feminine form, was the title given to Ninlil and was also an honorary title given to numerous other goddesses. See also Aleyn-Bel; Baal; Bel (B).

Bel (B) (Gaelic)

Also known as: Balan, Balin, Belenos, Belenus, Belinus, Bellin.

God of the dead.

Bel (C) (British)

Also known as: Bel (B).

Sun god and mythical king of Britain. See also Bel (B).

Bel (D) (Celtic)

Also known as: Bel (B).

He is an ancient god who was appeased by human sacrifice. See also Belinus; Borvo.

Bel (E) (India) see Vilva.

Bel Marduk (Babylonia) see Marduk.

Bel Matati (Babylonia) see Marduk.

Belatucadros (Celtic)

He is a horned god of war, who is equated with Mars.

Belbogh (Slavic) see Balbog.

Beldeg (Teutonic) see Beldegg.

Beldegg (Teutonic) see Balder; Odin; Thor.

Bele (Eastern Sudan, Africa)

Also known as: Azapane, Mba, Tul.

A trickster god. Counterpart of the god Tere (q.v.).

Belenos (Celtic) see Bel (B); Borvo.

Belenus (Celtic) see Bel (B).

Beletersetim (Assyria, Sumer)

This is another name of Belit-Sheri, the scribe of Arallu, the underworld. See also Belit-Sheri.

Be’li (British) see Bel (B).

Beli (Celtic) see Arianrhod; Bel (B).

Belili Belial (Akkadia, Assyro-Babylonia, Hebrew).

Also known as: Baalith, Belit-ili (title for Ishtar).

Goddess of the Underworld. Sister of Tammuz. Some writers say she was also a goddess of the moon, trees, springs, love and wells. They also say she was the predecessor of Ishtar and mistress of Tammuz. As Belial, this deity is a male and chief of the demons and enemy of God. In New Testament times the name “Belial” is associated with Satan and is a demon of evil. See also Belit; Devil; Satan.

Belinus (Celtic) see Bel (B).

Belisama (Celtic)

She is the goddess of the Mersey River. Some scholars think that she is a version of the Roman goddess Minerva. See also Sequana.

Belit (Assyro-Babylonia, Sumer)

Also known as: Ba’alat, Beltis, Belit-Ilani (Mistress of the Gods), Belit-Ile, Belit-Ili, Belit-Illi, Mylitta, Ninhursag, Nintud.

Belit is considered to be a title of Astarte, Ninlil, or some say, Nintud. As Belit-Ili she was the “Lady of the Gods.” As Nintud (Nintu), she was “Lady of Childbirth.” Some say she was consort of Assur or Bel. Others say she was the wife or sister of Enlil. She is shown seated and dressed in a tight robe, her hair made up in the style of the Egyptians. She wears a disk with two horns on her head. She is also depicted with her right hand in an attitude of blessing the baby that she holds as it suckles her left breast. Similar to Hathor and possibly the same as Astarte and Ishtar. She is associated with Tammuz. See also Arura; Bel; Ninhursag; Nintud.

Belit-Ilani (Mesopotamia) see Nintud.

Belit-Ile (Mesopotamia) see Belit.

Belit-Ili (Mesopotamia)

“Lady of the Gods.” See also Belit; Mah (B); Ninhursag; Ninki.

Belit-Illi (Mesopotamia) see Belit.

Belit-Sheri Belit-Seri, Belit-tseri (Assyro-Babylonian)

Also known as: Beletersetim, Nana (possibly).

Belit-Sheri, the scribe and goddess of writers, is the sister and lover of Tammuz and some say the sister of Ishtar. A scribe of the underworld, she sits in front of the Queen of Death, Ereshkigal, with recordings of the activities of mortals. Upon their deaths she calls out the judgments. See also Nana; Tammuz.

Belitis Beltis (Mesopotamia)

Also known as: “Lady.”

Another name for Ninlil, goddess of fertility. See also Beltis; Ninhursag; Ninki; Ninlil.

Bellerophon Bellerphontes (Greek)

Also known as: Deophontes, Hipponoos (Slayer of horses or monsters), Hipponous, Leophontes.

Greek hero. One of the Seven Great Slayers of Monsters. Bellerophon is the grandson of Sisyphus and son of Glaucus and Eurymede (also known as Eurynome), although according to Homer, Poseidon was his father. His brother was generally known as Deliades. He married Philinoe and became the father of Deidamia, Hippolochus, Isander and Laodamia. Exiled from Ephyra for unintentionally killing Deliades or Bellerus the tyrant of Corinth, he went to Proetus for purification. Prodded by his spurned wife Anteia (also known as Stheneboea), Proetus had Bellerophon deliver a sealed letter to Iobates requesting that he kill Bellerophon. Indirectly, Iobates attempted to fulfill the request. He urged Bellerophon to search for and kill the Chimaera, a fire-breathing monster. Before departing, Bellerophon sought advice from the sage Polyeidus, who suggested that he enlist the aid of Pegasus, the winged horse. He directed him to the temple of Athene where the goddess presented him with a golden saddle and instructed him to go to the well of Peirene. There he found Pegasus, who upon seeing the golden saddle, allowed Bellerophon to mount him. On the back of the moon-horse, in mid-air, Bellerophon slaughtered the Chimaera by shooting arrows through him and in another version by also shoving lead down his throat, which, melted by his fiery breath, seared his intestines. Returning as the victor, the surprised Iobates tried another tactic. He sent him to fight the Solymians, a neighboring tribe, then the Carian pirates and the Amazons. Undaunted, Bellerophon emerged victorious after each battle. Finally, Iobates decided to send the strongest of his soldiers to kill him. Bellerophon petitioned Poseidon to flood the Xanthian Plain to drive the soldiers away. His request was answered and once again Bellerophon was undefeated. Iobates, convinced that Bellerophan was favored by the gods, offered him his daughter Philonoe in marriage and made him successor to his throne. Inflated by his successes and envious of the gods, Bellerophon mounted Pegasus and attempted to fly to the heavens. Annoyed, Zeus sent a gadfly which stung Pegasus and threw Bellerophon, seriously injuring him. Blinded, lame and spurned by the gods, he became an outcast who wandered the fields alone and died miserably with neither his death nor burial place marked. Another myth relates that Bellerophon finally evened the score with Antea by inviting her to ride Pegasus and then from a great height he shoved her to her death. Hyginus wrote that she committed suicide when she learned that Bellerophon married her sister. Other myths say that Bellerophon received Pegasus from either Athene or Poseidon. See also Athene; Chimaera; Iobates; Pegasus; Philinoe; Poseidon; Proetus; Sarpedon (A); Sarpedon (B); Sisyphus.

Bellerphontes (Greek) see Bellerophon.

Bellerus (Greek) see Bellerophon.

Bellin (Celtic) see Bel (B).

Bellona (Roman)

Also known as: Enyo (Greek), Mah-Bellona (in later times).

Bellona, the goddess of war, is the daughter of Phorcys and Geto, and either sister or companion of Mars. Her priests, called Bellonarii, inflicted wounds on themselves when offering sacrifices. Bellona is shown with dishevelled hair, dressed in full armor and holding a bloody lash. She is identified with the Greek Enyo. See also Aruru; Mah.

Bellonarii (Roman) Priests of the war goddess Bellona (q.v.).

Belos (Babylonia) see Marduk.

Belshim (Semitic) see Adad; Baal.

Beltaine (Celtic, Irish) see Beltine.

Beltan (Celtic, Irish) see Beltine.

Beltane (Celtic, Irish) see Beltine.

Belti Baalti (Babylonian, Phoenician, Semite, Sumer)

Also known as: Baalath, Beltis, Belitis, Beltu.

Mother goddess. Generally used as a name which signifies “lady.” Usually indicates a term for Astarte and Ishtar. See also Baalath; Ishtar.

Beltine Baltein, Bealtuinn, Beltaine, Beltan, Beltane (Celtic, Irish)

Also known as: Galan-Mai (Welsh), Shennda Boaldyn (Isle of Man).

Festival day. Several historical days in mythology are said to have taken place on the first of May (of the old calendar). It is said that on this day the race of Partholon, led by Partholon and his queen Dealgnaid, one of the earliest settlers of Ireland, came ashore. On the same day three hundred years later they left Ireland. On this day the Tuatha De Danann were said to have first stepped foot on the island. The first Gaelic people are said to have arrived in Ireland on this day. May 1 marked the beginning of summer on the old calendar. Beltaine (Beltine) means “the fire of Bel” and relates to the deity Bel also known as Belinus. It is said that on the evening before May 1, all household fires were extinguished and relit from a main fire thought to be ignited by the Druids. Various rituals accompanied this tradition which were thought to protect the people from evil and illness. Later this became the feast for Saint Brigit. See also Bel (B); Brigit; Tuatha De Danan.

Beltis (Sumer, Babylon) see Belti.

Beltis-Allat (Arabic, Chaldean) see Allat; Allatu.

Beltiya (Assyro-Babylonian) see Zerpanitum.

Beltu (Sumer, Babylonian) see Belti.

Belu (Semitic) see Baal.

Belus (A) (Phoenician) see Baal.

Belus (B) (Greek)

King of the Egyptians. Belus is the son of the sea god Poseidon and Libya (eponym of Libya, which, to the ancients, was her homeland Egypt). He is the twin brother of Agenor and brother of Lelex. His spouse is Anchinoe (q.v.). See also Agenor (A); Danaus; Lamia; Lelex.

Belus (C) (Babylonian Creation Legend of Berosus, 280 B.C.E.) (Babylonian Creation Legend of Damascius, sixth century C.E.)

In the story of Berosus, Belus (who is the same as Bel) ripped Thalath in half. She ruled the abyss and its horrendous monsters. Belus destroyed the monsters and created heaven with one half of Thalath and earth with her other half. He ordered Kingu to cut off his head. From his blood and earth, mortals, animals, the five planets, the sun, and the moon were formed. In the story of Damascius, Tauthe and Apason (the same as Apsu) existed in the beginning. They created the gods Moymis, Lakhe, Lakhus, Assorus, and Kissare. Assorus and Kissare were the parents of Anu, Illinus, and Aus. Aus and Dauce were the parents of the creator of the world, Belus. For the Creation Legend from the Tablets of Ashurbanipal (circa 650 B.C.E.) see Tiamat. See also Apsu; Aus; Bel (B); Bile.

Belus (D) (Greek)

Phoenix, the king of Phoenicia, is possibly his father.

Belus (E) (Greek)

He is possibly the father of Anna, Dido and Pygmalion. The other possibility is that Agenor is their father.

Bendegeit Vran (Celtic) see Bran.

Bendigeid Fran (Celtic) see Bran.

Bendigeid Vran (Celtic) see Bran.

Bendis (A) (Cappadocian) Earth goddess.

Bendis (B) (Thracian)

Moon goddess. Worship of Bendis spread from Thrace to Lemnos and later to Attica. Her worship involved the celebrated mysteries in Samothrace. She is identified with Artemis, Hecate, Persephone and Rhea. See also Artemis (possibly her counterpart); Cybele; Hecate; Persephone; Rhea; Sabazius.

Benen (Egypt)

Guardian of the eighth sector of Tuat. See also Tuat.

Benet (Egypt) see Aani.

Benjaiten (Japan) see Benten.

Bennu Bird (Egypt) see Benu.

Bensai-Ten (Japan) see Benten.

Bentakumari (Assamese People, India) Water Goddess.

Benten (Buddhist; Japan; Hindu origins)

Also known as: Benjaiten, Bensai-Ten, Benten (“Coin-washing Benten”), Benzai-Ten, Benzai-Tennyo, Benzaiten, Ichiki-Shima-Hime (an ancient name), Sarasvati (India), Zeniari.

Goddess of the sea, and of good luck. Originally, she was known as the Hindu love goddess, Benzaiten. As Benten she is a jealous goddess, however, she absorbed the qualities of her former rival, Kichijo-ten and became the only goddess of the Shichi Fukujin (the “Seven Deities of Good Fortune”). She rose from the sea as the daughter of the Dragon King Ryu-wo. As a sea goddess, she was worshiped primarily on the smaller islands. She is also the goddess of good fortune, the goddess of music and public speaking. Later, she became the Goddess of Waters, and in some way is associated with an obscure deity named Uga-jin. Benten’s avid followers are business people, gamblers, actors, dancers, musicians and geishas. Some say she has two sisters. She is depicted as a beautiful woman dressed in ornate clothing. She variously holds a lute, sword or jewel in two hands. In other depictions, she is shown with eight arms holding various objects. Sometimes she is shown with her messenger, a white snake. She is also depicted riding on a dragon. As a Shichi Fukujin, she holds a lute. As with other images of the Shichi Fukujin, her image has been carved on rice grains. Women often carried her talisman as they believed that she made them more fruitful and accentuated their beauty and talents. As Zeniarai Benten, she increased the prosperity of all who threw coins into her well. She is similar to the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, and almost identical to the Indian goddess of the arts, Sarasvati. As Benzaiten, she is associated with Bishamon, the god of happiness and war. See also Bishamon; Kichijo-Ten; Sarasvati; Shichi Fukujin.

Bentet (Egypt) see Aani.

Bentet Apes (Egypt) see Aani.

Benth (Egypt) see Aani.

Benthesicyme (Greek)

Daughter of Poseidon and Amphitrite, she raised her half-brother, Eumolpus, who had been thrown into the sea by his mother Chione. See also Amphitrite; Chione; Eumolpus.

Benu (Egypt)

Also known as: Atum (possibly), Beann, Beanu, Bennu, Byanu; (possibly as the Phoenix; he flew from Arabia to Egypt).

Mythical bird. He is shown as a huge golden hawk with a heron’s head. He makes his appearance once every 500 years. He came from Arabia with the body of his father enclosed in an egg of myrrh. Other sources indicate that the Benu Bird, in this case a heron, is an aspect of Atum. It was said to have flown through the first dawn, coming to rest on a rock in the primordial waters (the Nun), where it opened its beak and let out a cry breaking the silence of the Nun. His plumage was colored part gold and part red, and he was about the size of an eagle. Benu is sometimes called the soul of Osiris. The name Beanu or Beann is also that of the Celtic mother goddess. The Benu, like the phoenix, re-creates itself from fire. See also Atum.

Benu Bird (Egypt) see Atum.

Benzai-Ten (Japan) see Benten.

Benzai-Tennyo (Japan) see Benten.

Benzaiten (Japan) see Benten.

Berchta (Teutonic) see Bertha.

Berecyntia (A) (Greek)

A surname of Cybele derived from Mount Berecynthus in Phrygia, where Cybele was worshiped. See also Cybele.

Berecyntia (B) (Celtic, Gaul)

This earth goddess may be the same as Brigit.

Bergelmir Bergelmer (Norse; Teutonic)

This frost giant came from the feet of Thrudgelmir, who in turn was produced by Ymir. Bergelmir is the father of all the evil frost giants, who are known as Hrim-Thurs. He and his wife were the only ones to survive the war with Odin and his brothers. Bergelmir escaped and made his home in a place in Jotun-heim. Here he began a new race of frost-giants who continued the war with Odin and his group. In another rendition, Bergelmir and his spouse were the only survivors of a deluge caused by the blood of Ymir. See also Bor; Buri; Jotun-heim; Ymir.

Berkta (Teutonic) see Bertha.

Berling (Norse; Teutonic)

Dwarf smith. One of four dwarfs who slept with Freyja in return for the gift of the Brising Necklace. The others were Alfrigg, Dvalin, and Grerr. See also Alfrigg; Freyja.

Beroe (Greek) see Adonis; Semeie.

Berserker (Teutonic) see Berserkir.

Berserkir Berserker, Berserks (Norse; Teutonic)

Also known as: Bear Shirts, Berserksgangr.

Deified mortals. They are the human warriors who went into a frenzy, possibly induced by drugs or by large quantities of alcohol, before battle. As warriors, they were immune to weapons. After battle, when their fury subsided, they became unusually weak. In their weakened state, they were captured. The Berserkir (Old Norse for “bear” and “shirt”) fought wearing animal skins and are under the special protection of Odin. Originally, there were twelve Berserkir born on the island of Bolmso, the sons of Arngrim and Eyfura. Thor killed the serpent-wives of the Berserkir. They are the relatives of Ottar. The Berserkir are often described as “fantastically ugly,” and are often mistaken for trolls. See also Odin.

Berserks (Teutonic) see Berserkir.

Berserksgangr (Teutonic) see Berserkir.

Bertha Berchta, Berkta, Brechta (Teutonic)

Also known as: Frigga, Frau Berchta, Gode, Holda, Huldra, Nerthus, Percht, Perchta, Precht, Vrou-elde, Wode.

“White Lady.” Bertha could be a spirit of spring. Bertha is not attractive, but she is kind and sweet. Her duties are to watch over the souls of unborn children (who are known as “the Heimchen”). She also watches over children who die before baptism. Bertha is reputed to be the female form of Odin. In this form she is known as “Frau Gode,” or “Frau Wode.” In Holland she is known as Vrou-elde and in Germany she is known as Nerthus. In Scandinavia, they call her Huldra. She is identified with Freyja and the Slavic Baba Yaga. She is associated with Holda, Wera and other goddesses of the New Year. Bertha is similar to the Roman Befana (q.v.). See also Baba Yaga; Befana; Holda; Nerthus.

Bes (Egypt, Phoenicia, Sudan, and Nubia; possibly of Semitic origin)

Also known as: Aha (fighter), Bas, Besam Bisu.

Bes is the god of marriage, god of music, fighting, dancing, protector of women in childbirth and protector against terrors, evil spirits, dangerous beasts and insects. He may have been a god of birth. He was also a god of fashion, particularly of the adornment of women. Later he was known as a god of the dead or fate. He carried the sa (symbol of protection), a knife for defense, and musical instruments to ward off evil spirits. His image was found on mirrors and cosmetic pots to aid in averting the “Evil Eye.” He is akin to Bacchus the Roman god of gaiety in nature. He does not resemble the other members of the Egyptian Pantheon in appearance. Bes might have a mate named Ta-weret. In some legends, he is the husband of Bast. He is depicted as an ugly, hairy dwarf god. He has a huge beard, protruding tongue, flat nose, shaggy eyebrows and hair, large projecting ears, long thick arms, and bowed legs. He wears an animal skin whose tail hangs down to the ground, and a tiara of ostrich feathers. There are those who say he had feathers instead of hair. In the Eighteenth Dynasty, pictures of Bes with wings were popular. Bes is associated with Hathor and her son Ihy. Bes is the counterpart of the goddess Theoris. Compare Bes to Bacchus, Gilgamesh, Silenus. Some say he is Horus’ nurse. See also Bast; Bastet; Hathor; Theoris.

Beset (Egypt)

She is a patron of art, music and childbirth, and the female counterpart of Bes (q.v.)

Besi (Egypt)

Otherworld deity. God in the tenth sector of Tuat (q.v.)

Besi-Shemti (Egypt) see Aai.

Besla (Teutonic) see Bestia.

Bestla Besla, Bettla (Teutonic)

Bestla is the giant daughter of Bolthorn, who became the mate of Bor and the mother of Odin, Ve and Vili. She is the daughter-in-law of Buri. In another myth, she is known as the daughter of Ymir and twin of Mimir. See also Bolthorn; Bor; Buri; Mimir; Odin; Ve; Vili; Ymir.

Besu (Slavic)

Devil or disagreeable god.

Bet (Egypt) see Bata.

Betsune Yeneca (Chippewa People, North America)

Star deity. Name of the Old Woman’s Grandchild, a magic boy from the stars.

Bettla (Teutonic) see Bestia.

Bevarash (Zoroastrian; Persia)

The end of the dynasty of the fiendish snake, Azhi Dahaka (q.v.).

Beyla (Teutonic)

Earth goddess. Wife of Byggvir. Handmaiden of Freyr.

Bhadra Vira (India) see Badari.

Bhadracharu (India) see Rukmini.

Bhadrakali (India) see Badari; Durga; Karttikeya.

Bhadri-Nath (India) see Badari.

Bhaga (Hindu; India)

God of strength, beauty, good fortune and marriage. An Aditya, Bhaga, the “divine,” is the brother of the god Varuna and Ushas the goddess of dawn. There was a time, when Daksha held an important event, to celebrate a sacrifice. He invited everyone from near and far — except Shiva. Enraged, Shiva created the monster, Virabhadra, who blinded Bhaga. See also Aditya; Daksha; Durga; Mitra; Parvati; Shiva; Ushas; Varuna.

Bhagavad-Gita Bhagavadgita (Hindu; India)

“Song of the Divine One.”

This is the sixth book of the Mahabharata, in the form of a dialogue between Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, and Arjuna, expounding philosophical theories on duty and death. The conversation took place when Arjuna was unwilling to do battle and questioned the remarks of Krishna, his charioteer, on the subject. The Bhagavad-Gita consists of 606 verses and is thought to have been written in the first century CE.

Bhagavata Purana, The (Hindu; India)

Dedicated to Bhagavata (god, said to be Vishnu), this Sanskrit work by Vopdeva (c. 1300), is composed of 12 books, divided into 322 chapters. The name means “The Old Book of Divinity.”

Bhagiratha (India)

Great grandson of King Sagara (q.v.).

Bhairab (Nepal)

One of Shiva’s numerous destroyer forms, Bhairab is either dark blue or black and is depicted nude. In pictures he is occasionally shown as white. He has many arms and usually one head shown with rolling eyes and unruly hair. In his hands are a skull-cup, a wand with three skulls, or a noose. He may wear sandals and is often shown standing on a recumbent figure. See also Shiva.

Bhairava (Hindu; India, Indonesia, Tibet)

Also known as: Jigs-Byed (Tibet), Shiva.

Bhairava, the “destroyer,” is one of eight (or twelve) terrifying aspects of Shiva. As Bhairava he destroys for the pleasure of destruction. He is depicted frowning. His eyes are angry, his hair flaming and his tiger teeth appear razor sharp. Naked, a snake is coiled around his neck and he wears a necklace of skulls. He carries his noose, trident and drum. He is often accompanied by demons, imps and a dog, sometimes said to be a jackal. In some locales, Bhairava and the village god Bhairon have merged. Bhairava is worshiped in northern and central agricultural districts of India as a black dog, a snake-girded drummer, or a red stone. Depictions of Bhairava are often very similar to depictions of the Buddhist god of death, Mahakala. See also Bhairon; Shiva.

Bhairavi (India)

“Terrifying Female.” See also Durga; Kali; Parvati.

Bhairoba (India) see Bhairon.

Bhairon Bhairava, Bhairoba (Bombay), Kala Bhairava (Bombay); (Hindu; India)

A local village god, Bhairon is the personification of the field spirit. In some places, he has merged with Shiva’s terrifying aspect as Bhairava. In Benares he serves as a guardian at Shiva’s temples. As Kala Bhairava, or Bhairoba, he is depicted with a sword or club, carrying a bowl of blood. See also Bhairava; Gramadeveta.

Bhaisajyaguru (India) see Bhaishajyaguru.

Bhaishajyaguru Bhaisajyaguru

Also known as: Man-lay Sang-gyeman-gyila-beduryr-o-chi-gyal-po (Tibet); (Buddhist; India)

God of healing. God of sex change. A Bodhisattva and the fifth Buddha, he is a the master physician and god of healing and of spells. He rules the east (as does Akshobhya) and is depicted as blue in color. He holds fruit in his right hand. See also Akshobhya; Amida; Yao-Shih Fu.

Bhama (India) Krishna’s wrathful wife. See also Krishna.

Bhangi (Cambodian) see Rahu (B).

B’haq Ziva (Gnostic) see Abathur.

Bharadvaja Bharadwaja, Bharawaya (Hindu; India)

The son of the Rishi Brihaspati, Bharadvaja, a great poet and sage, was the spiritual leader of the Pandavas. He is the father of Drona (q.v.). See also Brihaspati; Pandavas; Rishi.

Bharadwaja (India) see Bharadvaja.

Bharata (A) Bharatha, Bharati (Hindu; India)

Bharata is one of four sons of King Dasaratha and Queen Kaikeyi. He was the spouse of Madavi (also called Mandavi) and the cousin of Sita. He reigned in place of his half-brother Rama during the latter’s exile which was caused by Kaikeyi. His other siblings are Lakshmana and Satrughna. (He is not to be confused with Bharata, the Vedic king of the Bharatas, nor Bharata the hermit who was associated with Vishnu.) See also Dasaratha; Lakshmana; Rama; Sita.

Bharata (B) (Hindu; India)

An ancestor of the Kauravas and Pandavas and the son of King Dushyanta and the nymph Shakuntala (q.v.).

Bharatha (India) see Bharata (A).

Bharati (India)

Goddess of Speech. A name for Sarasvati (q.v.). See also Vach.

Bharawaya (India) see Bharadvaja.

Bhargavi (India) Wife of Shiva. See also Devi.

Bharundas (Hindu; India)

Birds who carry away the dead.

Bhava (India) “Existences.” A title of Agni (q.v.).

Bhava-Siva (India) see Daksha.

Bhavani Bhawani, Bhowanee, Bhowani, Devi, Devi-Uma, Kali, Mari, Parasu-Pani, Parvati (Hindu; India; possibly Dravidian)

“Bestower of Existence.” Bhavani is a name alternately used for Devi, Kali, or Parvati. In one depiction, she is shown as young, wearing a crown, and containing within her body a landscape incorporating the sun, moon and the sea. Perfume was burned in her honor by women in childbirth. The Korwa (also called Korama) people of India worship Bhavani as Mari, the goddess of death. See also Dakinis; Devi; Kali; Mari.

Bhawani (India) see Bhavani.

Bhiarav (Nepal) see Varahi.

Bhima (A)

Also known as: Bhima-sena (“The Terrible”), Bhimul Pen, Bhimsen, Bish-nat (as an earlier incarnation), Vrikodara (“Wolf’s Belly”); (Hindu; India)

As the son of Vayu “the wind” and Kunti “the earth,” Bhima has the ability to fly. The second of the five Pandavas, his older brother is Yudhisthira. Hanuman, the flying monkey, is his half-brother. A giant in size, he is the spouse of the Rakshasis Hidimbaa and the father of Ghatotkacha. She is the sister of the demon Hidimba whom Bhima killed. With princess Balandhara of Kasi, he has another son, Sarvaga. Trained by Drona and Bala-Rama to use the magic club, he became a ferocious warrior. His cousin Duryodhana once poisoned him and threw him into the Ganges River. His body sunk to the bottom but he was revived by resident serpents. The fiery-tempered god insulted the solar Karna and became his enemy for life. He killed the demon Vaka and so many other Asuras that they promised not to accost humans if he would leave them alone. When Jayadratha, and at another time, Kitchaka attempted to rape his spouse Draupadi, he trounced them thoroughly. Disguised as a demon and, aided by his magic club, he rescued Draupadi from death by fire. During the great Battle of the Mahabharata, he fought Bhishma, killed the two sons of the king of Magadha, fought his old master Drona, killed Duhsasana and smashed Duryodhana’s thigh. When the devious king Dhritarashtra summoned him to his court, Krishna intervened and substituted an iron statue, which the enraged king crushed in an embrace. In another adventure, he set out for Lake Kubera and the life-giving lotus in the northeastern area of the celestial realm. He found the lake and killed the Yakshas who guarded the lotuses. The water from the lake gave him youth and strength. See also Bala-Rama; Bhishma; Draupadi; Duryodhana; Jara-Sandha; Kama; Krishna; Kunti; Pandavas; Rakshasa; Takshaka; Yaksha and Yakshini; Yudhisthira.

Bhima (B) (India) see Apsarases.

Bhima (C) (India) A name for Shiva or Rudra (q.v.).

Bhima-Devi (India) “Terrifying Goddess.” See also Kali.

Bhima-sena (India) see Bhima (A).

Bhimsen (India) see Bhima (A).

Bhimul Pen (India) see Bhima (A).

Bhishma

Also known as: Gangeya (“Son of Ganga”), Jalu-Ketu (banner name), Nadija (River-born); (Hindu; India)

Bhishma, a deified mortal, is the son of the river goddess Ganga and the sage Santanu. He was known for his devotion and honor. When his aged father wanted a young wife, he accommodated him and gave him the woman he himself loved, Satyavati. To ensure that his father’s new sons would become kings, he gave up his throne. Later, he found mates for his youngest half-brother. They were the daughters of the Raja of Kasi. When their husband died, Bhishma gave the women to his other half-brother Vyasa. Their children were Dhritarashtra, who was blind, and the pale Pandu. Bhishma tried to prevent the war between the Kauravas and Pandavas but ended up leading the Kauravas. He was killed, but not instantly, by a thousand darts shot by Arjuna at the Battle of Kurukshetra. His divine power permitted him to decide the day of his death, so he lay for fifty-eight days with the darts sticking out from his body. During this period he gave many discourses on morality. Bhishma was welcomed into Mount Meru where he became one of Indra’s advisors. See also Arjuna; Bhima; Ganga; Indra; Meru Mountain; Pandavas; Satyavati; Vyasa.

Bhishmaka, King (India)

Father of Rukmini. See also Sisupala.

Bhisma (India) see Bhima (A).

Bhogavati (India) see Nagas and Nagis.

Bhogini (India) see Nagas and Nagis.

Bhowanee (India) see Bhavani; Devi.

Bhowani (India) see Bhavani; Devi.

Bhradrakali (Hindu; India)

Goddess of death.

Bhramara (India) “Relating to the Bee.” See also Devi.

Bhrigu (India) see Bhrigus.

Bhrigus Bhrgu (singular) or Bhrigu (Hindu; India)

A Bhrigu, who was the first wise man, was married to Puloma, who in turn was betrothed to a demon. It was Bhrigus the sage who cursed Agni then repented and revoked his curse. Along with Matarisvan they represent the wind. In another version, the first wise man was Bhrigu and his descendants were the Bhrigus, meaning “the Shining Ones.” A son of Bhrigus was the wealthy sage Chyavana who was rejuvenated by the healing twin deities, the Asvins. (Chyavana is also spelled Cyavana and Syavana.) Agni betrayed Bhrigus’ wife into the hands of a Raksha. Bhrigus condemned Agni to forever consume everything. Agni retaliated by hiding himself from the gods and mortals. Realizing that Agni was indispensable, Bhrigus revoked his curse and Brahma urged him to return. They had to decide which of the three gods, Brahma, Shiva or Vishnu, was most deserving of the Brahmans’ worship. Bhrigus was sent by the Bhrigu to find out who was the most deserving deity of the Hindu triad. He went to visit Shiva who was preoccupied with his wife and would not grant him an interview. Bhrigus, infuriated, cursed Shiva and decreed that henceforth the god would be worshipped as a lingam. Bhrigus went on to see Brahma, who was not remotely interested in granting the sage an audience. He then went on to Vishnu, and when he found him sound asleep, he kicked him in the ribs. Although rudely awakened, Vishnu’s first concern was for Bhrigus. He asked him if his foot was injured from the kick. This concern won Bhrigus over, and he declared Vishnu to be the most deserving of adoration. Bhrigus is the father of the deity Shukra (meaning “Bright”), who became a guru to the Asuras. Blind in one eye, with the ability to bring the dead to life with his incantations, he personifies the planet Venus. As well as being a sage of the Mahabharata, he is thought of as a minor deity. Bhrigus foretold the life of all people born. His prophecies, written down, are known as the “Bhrigu Collection” (“Bhrigu Samhita”). See also Agni; Asuras; Asvins; Brihaspati; Lakshmi; Loka; Mada; Prajapati; Rishi; Shiva; Vishnu.

Bhu (Brahmanic, Hindu; India)

She is Mother Earth, who reclined at the bottom of the ocean before Creation. Brahma raised her to the surface where she appeared as a lotus flower which opened when the light enveloped her. See also Bhumi.

Bhu-Devi Bhudevi (India)

An earth goddess similar to Pritha. See also Bhumi; Darti Mai; Pritha; Prithivi; Sita.

Bhudevi (India) see Bhu-Devi.

Bhugangi (Hindu; India) see Kundalini.

Bhujagas (India) see Naga and Naginis.

Bhujangi (India) see Kundalini.

Bhujyu (India) The Sun. See also Asvins.

Bhumi Bhumidevi (Hindu, Vedic; India)

Bhumi is referred to as the fourth earth and the mother of the planet Mars. She is one of seven sisters who are not named, but may be associated with seven stars or planets. She is thought by some to be the spouse of Vishnu. Bhumi is the mother of Sita, known as Bhumija, who sprang from a furrow in the earth and in the end returned to Bhumi, the earth. The Indian goddesses Medini and Mahi are also known as the mother of Mars. Bhumi corresponds closely to Prithivi. Sometimes they are said to be two forms of the same goddess. See also Bhu; Bhu-devi; Bhumiya; Brihaspati; Sita; Varaha (Vishnu’s avatar as a boar); Vishnu.

Bhumija (India) see Bhumi; Sita.

Bhumiya (Northern India)

Also known as: Khetrpal, Rani (feminine).

Bhumiya is an ancient earth god or goddess who is worshipped at the time of marriage, birth and harvest. He sometimes changes sex and is identified with the earth mother. People who are disrespectful to Bhumiya become ill. The Dangis People worship Bhumiya as a snake. See also Bhumi.

Bhumiya Rani (India) see Bhumiya.

Bhur-Loka (India) see Loka.

Bhura (India) see Bura-Penu.

Bhuri (India) see Bura-Penu.

Bhut (India) see Bhutas.

Bhuta (India) see Bhutas; Daksha.

Bhutanayaki (India) Spirit Leader. See also Devi.

Bhutapati (India) Prince of demons. See also Rudra; Shiva.

Bhutas Bhut, Bhutias, Buta (Hindu; India)

The Bhutas, children of Krodha, the daughter of Daksha, and her mate Bhuta, are malignant spirits, vampires, ghosts, or goblins who despise humans and frequent cemeteries. Mortals who have died a violent death become Bhutas. The Bhutas never rest on earth, so they can be avoided by lying down. Burning turmeric will also keep them away. Bhutas speak with a nasal twang, hate fire and do not have shadows. See also Daksha; Demons; Incubus; Jinn (Persian); Krodha; Nagas; Pishachas; Rakshasas; Satyrs (Greek).

Bhutesvara (India) Lord of Spirits and Demons. See also Shiva.

Bhutias (India) see Bhutas.

Bhuvana-Matri (India) “Mother of the World.” See also Devi.

Bhuvanisvari (India) “Mistress of the World.” See also Devi.

Bhuvar-Loka (India) see Loka.

Bia (A) (Greek, Egypt)

Also known as: Ba, Ka.

God of force and violence. He and his brother, Cratus (also spelled Kratos) helped Hephaestus nail Prometheus to a cliff. They were also great helpers of Zeus. Another version tells that Bia (violence) was a daughter of the nymph Styx, who was the personification of the river Styx and the Titan Pallas. Bia was the sister of Zelos, Nike, and Caratus. She also helped the Olympians in the revolt of the Titans. See also Nike; Prometheus; Styx.

Bia (B) (Ashanti People, Africa)

He is the son of Nyame and Asase Ya and the older brother of Tano. Bia was deprived of his inheritance by his younger brother and was left poor land on the Ivory Coast. See also Asese Ya; Nyame.

Biadice (Greek) see Cretheus.

Biamban (Australia) see Baiame.

Biambun Biamban (Aborigine People, Australia)

Supreme deity. A god whose name is not to be spoken. He may be same as Biamban. See also Daramulun.

Bibhishan (India) see Vibishana.

Biblindi (Teutonic) see Odin.

Bielbog (Slavic) see Byelobog.

Bifrost Bivrost, Bilrost (Norse; Teutonic)

Also known as: Asa, Asa Bridge, Asabru, Asbru.

The Rainbow Bridge, Bifrost, links Asgard to the world of the mortals. The bridge stretches high above Midgard between the edges of Niflheim, or, some say, between Asgard and Midgard. It is built of fire, water, and air. It crosses the rivers of the dead (Kerlaug). The bridge is watched by the god Heimdall who is armed with a sword and carries a trumpet called Giallarhorn. The trumpet is used to announce the coming or going of the various gods. Only Thor is denied the privilege of using the bridge. During Ragnarok, Bifrost will be broken down by Sutur as he leads the sons of Muspell. See also Asgard; Niflheim; Thor.

Bifur (Norse; Teutonic)

Dwarf. One of the dwarfs who made Glepnir, the chain that binds the wolf Fenrir. The other named dwarfs are Bafur, Bombor, Dain, Nain, Nar, Niping and Nori. Skirnir, Freyr’s messenger, was sent to the dwarfs to have them make the chain. See also Dain; Dwarfs; Fenrir; Yggdrasil.

Bihishan (India) see Shurpanaka.

Bijadari (India) Benevolent demigods. See also Vidyadhara.

Bil (A) (Teutonic)

This minor goddess, an Asynjor, is the waning moon, who with Hiuki (also known as Hjuki), follows Mani the moon god on his course. She is described as a little girl. See also Aesir; Asynjor; Mani.

Bil (B) (Celtic) see Bel (B).

Bila (Aborigine People, Australia)

Sun goddess or sun-woman. She is a bloodthirsty cannibal who was wounded by the lizard-man Kudnu with a boomerang because she ate his people. She disappeared and the world was in darkness. Kudnu threw his boomerangs to the north, west, and south. It was only when he threw his last one to the east that she changed into a ball of fire and returned to the world.

Bildjiwararoju Bildjiwruaroiju (Australia) see Djanggawuls.

Bile (Celtic)

A culture hero, he is the spouse of Don and the father of Arianrhod, and Caswallwan. See also Arianrhod; Bel (B).

Bileyg (Teutonic)

“One with Evasive Eyes,” an alternate name for Odin.

Bilflindi (Teutonic) see Odin.

Bilrost (Teutonic) see Bifrost.

Bilskirnir (Norse; Teutonic)

It is the dwelling place of the god Thor in Asgard. See also Asgard; Thor.

Bilva (India) Sacred Fruit. See also Shiva.

Bima (Aborigine People, Australia) see Purukupali.

Bimbo-Gami (Japan) see Bimbogami.

Bimbogami Bimbo-Gami (Japan)

A god of poverty who is exorcised by throwing away the bamboo tube that lights the household fire.

Binded (Egypt) see Banebdedet.

Bingo (Bantu People, Africa)

God of knowledge. Son of Nzame and a mortal woman known as Mboya. After a quarrel with his wife over the affections of Bingo, Nzame threw his son from heaven. Otoyum, a great sorcerer, saved and hid Bingo. When Bingo grew up, he became the teacher of mortals. See also Nzame.

Binzuru Binzuku (Buddhist; Japan)

Originally he was a mortal disciple of Buddha. He became a god because of his miraculous abilities to heal the sick. In some myths, Binzuru broke his vow of chastity and so is denied entrance to Nirvana.

Bir (Assyrian) see Adad.

Biral (Australia) see Baiame, and Bunjil.

Birque (Semite) see Adad.

Birral (Australia) see Baiame.

Birren (Celtic) see Bith and Birren.

Birushana (Japan) see Dainichi-nyorai.

Bis-Bis (Assyro-Babylonian) see Tiamat.

Bish-nat (India) see Bhima (A).

Bishamon (Buddhist, China; Buddhist, Japan; originally of Hindu origins)

Also known as: Bishamon-Ten, Bishamon-tenno, Bishamon-ten, Tamon, Tamon-tenno, Tamontennu.

God of war, happiness, wealth and good luck. Guardian. Bishamon (“Wide Hearing”), a Shi-Tenno, is the guardian of the north. He is also one of the Shichi Fukujin (seven deities of good luck), and in this capacity is the god of war and wealth. As a warrior he is the protector of human life and chaser of demons. He is the brother of Kishijoten, a goddess of luck and beauty who corresponds to Lakshmi the Indian goddess of fortune and Sri the Indian goddess of prosperity. As a guardian, Bishamon is depicted as a soldier with a ferocious expression, usually shown with a small container in the shape of a pagoda in one hand and a spear in the other hand. As a Shichi Fukujin, he is also depicted as a soldier, holding similar items, sometimes with a halo in the shape of a wheel. See Lakshmi and Sri for similarities to Kishijoten. See also Benton; Daikoku; Jikoku-Ten; Kichijo-Ten; Komoku-Ten; Shi Tenno; Shichi Jukujin; Tamontennu; Zocho-Ten.

Bishamon-Ten (Japan) see Bishamon.

Bishamon-Tenno (Japan) see Bishamon.

Bishamonten (Japan) see Bishamon.

Bishen (India) see Devi; Gauri; Parvati.

Bishenjun (India) see Kalki.

Bisi-Bisi (Assyro-Babylonian) see Ishtar.

Bisimbi (Congo, Africa) see Nymphs.

Biswarupa (Nepal)

Biswarupa, a representation of many gods in one, has many heads and arms. The rear circle of arms has the hands in various hand poses. Other circles of arms hold implements and weapons. The heads, terrible and gentle, are those of the deities.

Bith and Birren (Irish)

This couple, similar to Adam and Eve, survived a deluge. They were the parents of Cessair (q.v.).

Bitje (Egypt)

A monster serpent with a head at each end, it is found in the ninth sector of Tuat.

Bitol (Maya)

Also known as: Ixmucane.

Creator deity. One of the council of Seven Gods of Creation. After the second attempt at creating mortals, four of the gods (regents) changed their names and sculpted men out of wood. Bitol became Ixmucane (q.v.). See also Alom.

Bivar-Asp (Persia) see Azi; Zahhak.

Bivrost (Teutonic) see Bifrost.

Bjelbog (Slavic) see Balbog.

Bjorno-hoder (Teutonic) see Hodur.

Black Annis (British)

Also known as: Black Agnes.

Black Annis lived in a cave alone. She hid in the branches of the last oak tree from her forest. This blue-faced hag feasted on people that she had snatched from their firesides. Others believed that she would grab children who played in her territory and scratch them to death. Early each spring, a dead cat would be dragged before a pack of hounds in front of her cave in Dante Hills to celebrate the death of winter. See also Cailleach Bheur.

Black Hactcin (Jicarilla Apache People, South America) see Hactcin.

Black Mother, The (India) see Kali.

Black Surt (Teutonic) see Surtr.

Blathine (Celtic) see Blathnat.

Blathnat Blathine (Celtic)

The daughter of King Mider, she married Curoi, who was the guardian of the king’s magic cauldron. Blathnat conspired with Cuchulain to steal the cauldron from Curoi. See also Cuchulain; Curoi; Mider.

Bleifstr (Teutonic) see Loki.

Blodeuwedd (Celtic, Welsh)

Also known as: Flower Face.

She was created by Math and Gwydion from a tree and flower-blossoms. The spouse of Llew, she loved Gronw Pebyr. To him she divulged the secret of how Llew could be killed. Gwydion punished her by death, or by turning her into an owl. This myth is similar to the myth of Blathnat (q.v.). See also Gwydion; Llew Llaw Gyffes.

Blue Jay (Chinook People, Pacific Coast People, North America)

A creator god, Blue Jay decides how each animal and bird will live, make its home, and eat. He is also a protector of humans. In the Chinook belief Blue Jay was orginally a mischief-maker, the gods turned him into a zoomorphic being. His sister is Ioi. See also Agas Xenas Xena.

Bn-Ym (Ugarit) see Khoser-et-Hasis.

Bo (Ewe People, Dahomey; Africa)

Bo protects people in war. During ceremonial occassions, his priests carry bundles of painted red and white sticks that are four to six feet in length. They also carry brass axes. Bo is associated with the god of lightning, Khebieso (also known as So).

Boand (Celtic, Irish) see Boann.

Boann (Celtic, Irish)

Also known as: Boand, Boannan, Buan.

Mother deity. River nymph. Boann is the goddess or priestess of the Boyne River in eastern Ireland who, by her union with Dagda, became the mother of Angus, Bodb, Brigit, Mider, and Ogma. Some say she is the river nymph wife of Ecmar (also spelled Elcmar, Elcmhaire. Accused of adultery with Dagda, she drowned in Connla’s well trying to prove her innocence. It is said the result of her infidelity was the birth of Angus. To conceal this from Ecmar she and Dagda held the sun still for the nine months of her pregnancy but made it seem like only one day had passed. Angus was raised by the underworld deity, Mider. For other river deities, see Brigantia, Sequana. Compare Boann to Tammuz. See also Angus; Dagda.

Boannan (Celtic, Irish) see Boann.

Boar with the Nine Tusks (Maya) see Cit-Bolon-Tum.

Bochica Bochicha, Bokika (Chibecha; Muyscaya People, Colombia, South America)

Also known as: Chiminizagagua, Nempterequeteva, Nemquetheba, Xue, Zuhe.

Sun God. Supreme creator and lawgiver. Bochica brought agriculture, social laws, crafts and other skills to the people. Before he left the mortal plane, he imprinted the shape of his foot on a rock. His wife was Chia (or possibly Huythaka or Cuchaviva) who brought a great flood which angered Bochica. He exiled his wife to the sky where she became the moon. He defeated the demon Chibchacum and forced him to carry the earth on his shoulders. Earthquakes are the result of Chibchacum getting restless. Bochica was possibly brought to Mexico by the Buddhist missionaries. In legend, an old bearded man clothed in robes came from the east to teach the people skills and crafts. Thinking he was one of the Apostles, they gave him the epithet “Chiminizagagua,” meaning “messenger of Chiminingua” (q.v.). See also Bachue (goddess of water); Chaquen (god of boundaries); Chia; Chibchacum; Cuchavira (god of air and the rainbow); Fomagata (storm god); Nencatacoa (god of weavers).

Bochicha (Bogata, South Africa) see Bochica.

Bod-Baal (Ugarit)

He assisted Baal in his battle with the Son of the Sea, Khoser-et-Hasis, and the Lord of the Sea, Zabel, and the beast Suffete, the Lord of the River. See also Baal.

Bodb (Celtic)

Also known as: Bodb Dearg, Bodb Derg, Bod the Red, Bov.

Father of deities. Bodb is either the son of Dagda and Boann, or the father of Dagda. He succeeded his father as ruler of the gods. After the defeat of the Tuatha De Danann, he became their king. His daughter, Aoife (also spelled Aeife), turned his stepchildren into swans, so he punished her by transforming her into a wind demon. Bodb eventually retired to the retreat of the gods. The name Bodb is sometimes confused with Badb, who is a goddess of battle. See also Aebh; Angus; Balor; Boann; Dagda.

Bodb the Red (Celtic) see Bodb.

Boddhisattvas (India) see Bodhisattvas.

Boddi (Teutonic) see Heimdall.

Boden (Teutonic) see Bodn.

Bodhisats (India) see Bodhisattvas.

Bodhisattva Cakdor (Tibet) see Vajrapani.

Bodhisattva Cheresi (Tibet) see Avalokitesvara.

Bodhisattvas Boddhisattvas, Bodisats, Bodisatvas, Buddhas

Also known as: Pu-sa (China); (Buddhist, India)

Bodhisattvas originated in the Mahayana branch of Buddhism. They are spiritually advanced persons who have achieved complete enlightenment. This qualifies them for Nirvana, the state of detachment from suffering. However, Bodhisattvas have chosen to remain in the world to assist and guide humans who have not achieved enlightenment. Although there are numersous Bodhisattvas, the common Bodhisattva trinity is composed of Avalokitesvara, Manjusri and Vajrapani. Maitreya, the future Buddha, is the last of the Bodhisattvas. Bodhisattvas are usually shown in a group of five, seated in an attitude of profound meditation (dhyana). Manjusri and Maitreya are shown seated on a throne. See also Dhyani Buddhas; Dhyanibodisattvas.

Bodisats (India) see Bodhisattvas.

Bodisatvas (India) see Bodhisattvas.

Bodn Boden (Norse; Teutonic)

Bodn is the crock used to create the mead of poetry which was brewed from Kvasir’s blood. Two other vessels were used to mix the brew: the crock Son, and the kettle Odraerir. Kvasir was killed by the dwarfs Fjalar and Galar. See also Kvasir; Odraerir.

Boe (Teutonic)

Also known as: Vale.

One of the sons of Odin and Rind (the personification of the hard, frozen earth). He avenged the death of Balder by killing Hodur. See also Hodur; Odin; Rind.

Boeotus (Greek)

He is the son of Poseidon and Arne (also known as Melanippe), the brother of Aeolus, the father of Itonus, and grandfather of Hippalcimus. See also Aeolus (B); Arne.

Boetis (Greek)

This goat or the goat Aex became the mother of Aegipan with Zeus. See also Aegipan.

Bogatyri (Slavic)

Also known as: Bogatyr (singular).

Spirits or gods of the Christian era. Some say they are river spirits. Their names are Ilya-Muromyets, Mikula, Potok-Mikhailo-Ivanovich, Sadko, Svyatogor, Volkh (Volga). Epic poems, known as “byliny,” were written about these deities. Eventually, the Bogatyri were beaten. They fled to caves where they turned to stone.

Bogu (Sumer) God of Wealth.

Bohu (Mesopotamia)

Also known as: Baau, Baku, Bau, Gur.

Earth Mother. See also Bau; Ea.

Boi (Celtic, Gaelic) see Cailleach Bheare.

Bokika (Bogota, South America) see Bochica.

Bolon-Ti-Ku (Maya People, Yucatan) see Ahmucen-Cab.

Bolon-Tsac-Cab (Maya People, Yucatan) see Ahmucen-Cab.

Bolthorn (Norse; Teutonic)

He is the frost giant brother of the wise giant Mimir, and grandfather of Odin, Vili, and Ve. See also Bestla; Bor; Buri; Mimir; Odin; Odraerir.

Bolverk Bolverkr, Boverkin (Norse; Teutonic)

Also known as: Evil Doer, Odin.

Aspect of Odin. Bolverk is one of the names chosen by Odin when he journeyed to Jotun-heim to find the mead of poetry made from Kvasir’s blood. He also uses this name when in the role of a war god. See also Baugi; Jotun-heim; Kvasir; Odin.

Bolverkin (Teutonic) see Odin.

Bombor Baumbur (Teutonic) see Dwarfs.

Bomersum (Saora People, India)

God of the marketplace. See also Adununkisum; Babusum.

Bomong (India) see Bong.

Bona Dea (Roman)

Also known as: Fatua, Fauna.

An ancient goddess of women. Possibly a goddess of fertility. She is reputed to be a relation of the god Faunus (possibly wife or daughter), or possibly just a female form of Faunus. She is supposed to be a goddess of fertility. Her true name is not known because she has refused to give one hint of it. She is a great prophet, a dispenser of healing herbs, and is quite chaste. She also permits no wine to be imbibed in her presence. Her name means “the Good Goddess.” She was worshiped in early December in secret by women only. Bona Dea (“Good Goddess”) was the most popular name used in the worship of Fauna Fatua. Bona Dea is identified with Maia and Rhea. See also Cybele; Faunus; Ops (a Sabine goddess).

Bondi (Teutonic) see Heimdall.

Bong and Bomong (Minyong People, India)

Sky and earth goddesses.

Bonus Eventus (Roman)

Agricultural deity. He is a rural god in charge of the harvest. Some say he is a god of success or luck.

Boodh (India) see Buddha.

Boodha (India) see Buddha.

Bor Borr (Norse; Teutonic)

He is the son of Buri and spouse of the giant Bestla, who is the daughter of Bolthorn. Bor and Bestla are the parents of Odin, Vili, and Ve, the ancestors of the Aesir. Odin, Vili, and Ve finally succeeded in slaying the great giant Ymir, and all of the other Giants except Bergelmir. See also Audhumla; Bergelmir; Bestla; Bolthorn; Buri; Midgard; Odin; Ve; Vili; Ymir.

Boreadae (Greek) see Boreas; Zetes.

Boreades (Greek) see Boreas; Zetes.

Boreas (Greek)

Also known as: Aguilo (Latin), North Wind.

God of the North Wind. Boreas is the son of the Titan Astraeus (“Starry Night”) and Eos (“Dawn”). Boreas, who resided in Thrace, fell in love with the nymph Oreithyia (also spelled Orithyia) who lived in Athens. The match did not sit well with the Athenians, who hated the Thracians because of the despicable deeds of Tereus. Boreas, as the North Wind, took matters into his own hands and whisked his loved one off her feet and took her to Thrace. His mother is the goddess of dawn, Eos, who had earlier abducted her lover, the beautiful Cleitus. Boreas and Oreithyia became the parents of Chione, Cleopatra, the winged twins Zetes and Calais, and Haemus. In the Pelasgian creation myth, Boreas is the fertilizing force which impregnates Eurynome, the Goddess of All Things. Boreades (also spelled Boreadae) is generally used as a name for the twins, Calais and Zetes, but it is sometimes used when referring to the children of Boreas. It is also used when referring to the twelve horses sired by Boreas in stallion form when he mated with the mares of Erichthonius (also spelled Erechtheus), king of Dardania, said to be the world’s richest man. Astraeus is the daughter of Erechtheus who was referred to by Homer as the grandson of Erichthonius. Other sources write that they are one and the same person. Boreas is usually depicted with snake tails in place of feet, or as a young man flying about in a playful way and sometimes as being the father of rain, snow, hail and tempests and also as an old winged man, veiled in clouds. Compare to Fujin (Japan). Boreas is the equivalent of the Roman Aquilo. See also Aello; Chaos; Chimaera; Cleite; Eos; Eurus; Eurynome (A); Harpies; Notus; Tereus; Zephyrus.

Bori (Teutonic) see Buri.

Bormanus (Celtic, Gaul) see Borvo.

Bormo (Celtic, Gaul) see Borvo.

Borr (Teutonic) see Bor.

Borus (Greek)

He is the son of Perieres and Gorgophone. His siblings are Aphareus, Icarius, Leucippus and Tyndareus. Borus married Polydora (q.v.). See also Gorgophone; Icarius.

Borve (Celtic) see Borvo.

Borvo Bormo (Celtic, Gaul)

Also known as: Belenos, Bormanus, Borve (possibly), Gramnnos.

“God of Hot Springs.” He is a divine healer who wards off illness, and a god of health giving springs. Borvo means “to boil.” His consort was the Gaulish goddess of cattle, “The Divine Cow,” Damona. In some renditions, he is thought to be the son of the early mother goddess, Sirona, (also known as Dirona), whom he displaced. Borvo may be the same as Borve, a Cymric king. The deity Bel, also known in the British tradition as Belinus, was called Belenos, as is Borvo. They are likely aspects of the same deity originating with Apollo (q.v.). See also Bel (B); Damona.

Bosheth (Hebrew) see Bast (Egypt).

Boshintoi (Siberia)

God of blacksmiths. Boshintoi and his nine sons made the horse post of the North Star.

Bossu (Dahomey People, Africa; Haiti)

Also known as: Akadja.

Malevolent spirit. A voodoo deity worshiped by the criminals of the underworld. Some say he might have been a mortal king named Kadja Bossu whom the Dahomey called Akadja. He is said to be a rival of the god of iron, Ogun. Bossu is related to the work god, Mounanchou. See also Ogun.

Bouddha (India) see Buddha.

Boulaia (Greek)

Another title of Athene as a goddess of council. See also Athene.

Bous (Teutonic) see Vali.

Bouto (Egypt, Greek) see Buto.

Bouyan (Slavic) An island paradise. See also Alatuir.

Bozaloshtsh (Slavic)

Messenger of death. She is described as a small woman with long hair who appears under the window of someone approaching death. Similar to Banshees (q.v.).

Brage (Teutonic) see Odin.

Bragi (Teutonic)

Also known as: Brage, Odin (possibly).

An Aesir, Bragi is the son of Odin and Frigga, and spouse of Idun (also known as Iduna). He is the lord of the sky and day, the god of poetry and eloquence, and the patron of bards. He may be an aspect of Odin. Bragi and Hermod welcomed all heros to Valhalla. Bragi is depicted as an old man with a long white beard. He carries a harp. See also Aesir; Hermod; Hoenir; Ull; Vali.

Brahma Brahmans (Brahmanic, Buddhist, Hindu; India)

Also known as: Abjaja, (“Born from a Lotus”), Abjayoni, Adharma (“Destroyer of All Things”), Maha-pita (“The Great Father”), Narayana, Pitamaha (“Grandfather”), Prah Prohm (Cambodian), Prajapati (“Lord of Creation”), Purusha, Ts’ana-Pa (“White Brahma”; Tibet).

Brahma, a creator god, received the basics of his mythological history from Purusha. During the Brahmanic period, the Hindu Trimurti was represented by Brahma with his attribute of creation, Shiva with his attribute of destruction and Vishnu with his attribute of preservation. The later Brahmans gave him the role of the Vedic Hiranyagarbha and Prajapati. He was born from Narayana, the golden primeval egg. The Ramayana states that he is self-existent, created himself as a boar, raised the world from the primeval waters with his tusks and formed the universe. In the Mahabharata epic he sprang from the right side of the great god Mahadeva. Others believe that Mahadeva sprang from Vishnu’s forehead and Brahma sprang from Vishnu’s navel, or from the lotus growing from Vishnu’s navel, which makes him an avatar of Vishnu. In the “Laws of Manu,” The “Self-Existent” Brahmam created the primeval waters and the golden egg with his seed within it. He emerged from the egg as Brahman and is simultaneously the son of the primal spirit, Narayana, the primal man, Purusha, and the creator god, Brahma. The “Vishnu Purana” presents Brahman as the essence of the world and the creator. In another creation myth, Brahama initially created ignorance, which he threw away. She survived and became Night. From Night came the Rakshasas and Yakshas, who are sometimes enemies but usually helpful. He then created the immortals. From his hip came the Asuras, who became enemies of the gods. The earth came from his feet, and all other elements of the world from other parts of his body. In other renditions, Brahma began the creation process and became discouraged, so he created four Munis (sages) to complete his work. Their interest in worshiping the universal spirit, Vasudeva, took precedence over their assignment from Brahma. This angered the great god and from his anger the deity Rudra was formed to complete the creation process. Brahma’s paradise was Brahmaloka, located on Mount Meru. Some say that Surya, the sun god, may be the son of Brahma. The goddess of learning, Sarasvati, is Brahma’s principal wife. He is the father of the capable Daksha, who was born from his thumb, and the wise Atri. He is the grandfather of King Yudhishthira. Narayana is said by some to be an aspect of Brahma and by others an aspect of Vishnu. In some renditions of the Buddhist tradition, Brahma and Indra interacted with Buddha. In one myth the two gods bathed the newborn Buddha. The god Brahma initially was not the same as the neuter gender god-force of the “Upanishads,” Brahman. In later times, however, Brahma did become identical with Brahman. Brahma, often in fish form, is usually depicted as having four bearded faces and four arms (representing the four Vedas) and seated on a lotus throne. With his four faces, he controls the four quarters of the universe. The lotus represents Mani, the earth. He holds the disk, alms dish, or spoon in his hands. Originally Brahma had five heads, but one was burnt off by Shiva’s third eye when he discovered that Brahma lusted incestuously after his daughter Sandhya. Sometimes he is imaged with three faces. His color is red, and he is sometimes shown as a peacock or a swan. He is also shown riding on Hansa his goose, who has a spotted red and blue peacock’s tail. Sometimes he is seated in his chariot, pulled by seven swans who symbolize the seven worlds, or some say clouds. He wears the skin of a black antelope and is dressed in white. His sword, named Asi, is the sun’s ray born of a sacrifice made on his altar called Samantapancaka. In his aspect as Abjaja (also known as Abjayoni) he is depicted sitting on a lotus, rising out of the navel of Varuna, who is connected by a flower stem (umbilical cord) to Narayana-Vishnu. When Brahma surveyed the four corners of the universe before beginning the creation process, it symbolized the four functions of the consciousness that the mortal must achieve: thought, feeling, intuition, and sensation. At all rites for Brahma he is presented with a single flower and Ghee (sacrificial butter). During the full moon night in January, he is adorned with Vishnu and Shiva on either side. The next day, the images are cast into holy waters. The symbol of the Trimurti is the syllable om, made up of the three sounds, a, u, m. Brahma’s arrow is named Naga-pasa. The Tibetan Ts’ana-pais is usually shown brandishing a sword and carrying a white bull. Compare Brahma to the creation myths of Manu and Varuna. Compare him to Abram. See also Agastya; Agni; Ahalya; Andhaka; Ardhanari-Ishvara; Asuras; Brahman; Buddha; Daksha; Dwaparayuga; Gandharvas; Ganesha; Garuda; Gramadeveta; Hansa; Hiranya-kasipu; Hiranyagarbha; Kama (A); Karttikeya; Kuvera; Loka; Manjusri; Manu; Marichi (B); Meru Mountain; Narada; Narayana (A); Narayana (B); Narayana (D); Prajapati; Purusha; Rakshasas; Ratri; Ravana; Rishi; Rudra; Sandhya; Sarasvati; Savitri (B); Shiva; Skambha; Surya; Tara (A); Vach; Vasistha; Vishnu; Visvakarmna; Yaksha and Yakshini.

Brahma-Kapla (India) see Kalpa.

Brahmaloka (India) Brahma’s Paradise. See also Brahma.

Brahman (Hindu)

Also known as: That, Absolute.

“Truth.” Infinity or the Absolute. According to some authorities, the world is illusion. It can exist inwardly or outwardly. It is the indescribable world of illusion. Brahman was the neuter gender world spirit, the All-god. In later times, Brahman and Brahma were considered the same. See also Brahma; Sarasvati.

Brahman — Creation Legaue (Hindu; Vedic) see Brahma; Prajapati (A); Purusha

Brahmanaspati (Hindu; India) see Brhaspati.

Brahmani (India)

Wife of Brahma. See also Brahma; Devi; Sarasvati.

Brahmans (India) see Brahma.

Brahmapura (India)

Brahma’s heaven, located on Meru Mountain (q.v.).

Brahmarishis (India) see Rishi.

Brahmi (India) see Sarasvati.

Bramanaspati (India) see Brihaspati.

Bran (British, Celtic, Welsh)

Also known as: Bendegeit Bran, Bendigeid Fran, Bendigeid Vran, Bran the Blessed, Leodegrance, Vron.

A brave giant, Bran is the brother of Branwen and Manawyddan and the son of Llyr by Iweridd or, some say, Febal. He has two half-brothers, Nissyen and Evnissyen (also spelled Efnissien), who were enemies. Bran was the possessor of a cauldron with the power to bring the dead back to life, but without the restoration of the power of speech. When his sister, Branwen, married the king of Ireland, Matholwch, he gave the cauldron to the Irish. This gift was compensation for the humiliation Evnissyen had caused the Irish. The ungrateful Matholwch subsequently imprisoned his new wife in the castle kitchen and treated her like a servant. Bran, with the British fleet behind him, walked through the sea to rescue his sister. A battle ensued and the defeated Irish offered to get rid of Matholwch and allow Gwern, the son of Branwen and Matholwch, to assume the throne. Evnissyen reappeared on the scene and killed Gwern. The fighting resumed but neither side emerged the victor. The Irish brought their dead to life until Bran smashed the magic cauldron. Seven Britons survived: Pryderi; Manawydan; Glunen, the son of the culture hero Taran; Taliesin; Ynawc; Grudyen, the son of Muryel; and Heilyn, the son of Gwynn the Ancient. Bran, severely wounded by a poisoned arrow, asked the survivors to behead him. It was said that his head was buried in London with eyes toward France to ward off all invaders. His head, which supposedly lived for eighty-seven years, is variously called: Uther Ben (“Wonderful Head,”) Uther Pendragon, or Urien. (A starling brought Bran the message of his sister’s distress. The birds of Rhiannon kept his head distracted from discomfort by their sweet singing.) See also Branwen; Manawydan Ap Llyr; Pryderi; Rhiannon.

Bran the Blessed (Celtic) see Bran.

Branwen Brangwaine, Brynwyn, Dwynwen (Celtic, Irish, Welsh)

A deified mortal, Branwen was the daughter of Llyr by Iweridd, and sister of Bran and Manawyddan. Famous for her beauty, she attracted the king of Ireland, Matholwch (also spelled Matholwych). Their marriage temporarily united Britain and Ireland. When Bran heard from a starling that the king was keeping his sister prisoner in the castle kitchen, he went to rescue her. A battle developed and peace resulted for a brief period. Branwen’s step-brother Evnissyen, murdered their son Gwern, bringing about war. Grief-stricken, Branwen died. See also Bran; Evnissyen; Manawydan Ap Llyr; Pryderi.

Brathy (Phoenician)

One of the giants of the mountains. They were the inventors of incense. Three others were named Cassios, Lebanon, and Antilebanon.

Brattskegg (Teutonic) see Heimdall.

Breathmaker (Seminole People, North America)

The Milky Way was created by Breathmaker by blowing at the sky. This is the path the people and their animals follow when they die en route to a “city in the western sky.” Breathmaker also taught the people how to dig wells and find fish.

Brechta (Teutonic) see Bertha.

Breg (Celtic) see Dagda.

Breid (Teutonic) see Heimdall.

Breidablik (Norse; Teutonic)

Also known as: Broad Splendor.

This is Balder’s residence in Asgard. It has golden pillars and a silver roof. It became his zodiacal house, which corresponds to the sign of the twins, Gemini. See also Asgard; Balder; Gladsheim; Sovabek.

Breit-Hut (Teutonic) see Odin.

Breksta (Lithuania)

Goddess of the passing hours of darkness. Her companions are Ausrine, the dawn, and Zleja, the high day.

Bres (Irish) see Bress.

Bres mac Elatha (Celtic) see Bress.

Bress Bres (Celtic, Irish)

Also known as: Bres mac Elatha.

Sun deity. Bress “the beautiful” is the son of the Fomorian sea king, Elathan, and the Tuatha De Danann earth mother goddess, Eriu. He married the goddess Brigit, who is the daughter of Dagda. Bress was appointed king of the Tuatha De Danann when king Nuada had his hand severed during the First Battle of Magh Tuiredh against the giant Firbolgs. Their motive in appointing him was an attempt to appease their enemies the Firbolgs. He turned out to be a dreadful tyrant who raised taxes and monopolized food sources which humiliated the people and made them subservient. In legend, there are many horror stories about his evil practices. Fortunately, the Tuatha De Danann had a rule that kings who were physically maimed could not reign. King Nuada lost the throne to Bress under that edict. A poet could cause the disfigurement of a king by satirizing him. In one eventful happening, the chief poet Cairbe’s words were so scathing they caused Bress’ face to erupt in boils. The Tuatha ousted him and he joined the Fomorians. In the Second Battle of Magh Tuiredh, he fought against the people he had once ruled and was defeated. See also Banbha; Brigit; Dagda; Dia’necht; Lugh; Nuada; Tuatha De Danann.

Brhaspati Brahmanaspati (Hindu; India)

The “Lord of Devotion,” he brought light to the world. His worshipers are given long life and victory. Brhaspati is sometimes thought to be the same as Agni (q.v.).

Brian (Celtic) see Cian; Dana.

Briareus (Greek)

Also known as: Aegaeon, Obriareus.

He is one of the Hecatonchires, sons of Uranus and Gaea. See also Aegaeon; Gaea; Hecatonchires.

Brid (Celtic) see Brigantia.

Bride (Celtic, Irish) see Brigantia; Brigit.

Bridge of Pain (China) see K’u-ch’u K’iao.

Bridge of the Gatherer (Persian) see Chinvat Bridge.

Bridge of the Requiter (Persian) see Chinvat Bridge.

Bridget (Celtic, Irish) see Brigantia; Brigit.

Brig (Irish) see Brigit.

Brigantes (Celtic) see Brigantia.

Brigantia Brigindo (British, Celtic, Irish)

Also known as: Brid, Bride, Bridget, Brighid, Brighit, Brigid, Brigin-do, Brigit, St. Bridget.

Protector deity. Multi-function goddess. Brigantia is a goddess of northern England, the protective goddess of the Brigantes, the largest tribe of Britain, which was named after her. It is said that she was raised on the milk of a magic cow from the Otherworld who was white with red ears. A goddess of the seasons, she watched over springs, streams, cattle and lambs. She is also a goddess of the hearth and fertility. She oversees the pain of women in childbirth. In Scottish mythology, she is Brigid, the goddess and saint, who oversees the coming of spring and ends the winter reign of Cailleach Bheur. Brigantia corresponds to the goddess Brigit of Ireland and also has aspects of the Irish Danu. She is often equated to the Romano-British goddess, Minerva. She is shown wearing a globe shaped crown, armed and wearing a breastplate, or bare-breasted. See also Bheur; Boann; Brigit; Cailleach Bheur; Dana; Minerva.

Brighid (Celtic) see Brigantia; Brigit.

Brighit (Celtic) see Brigantia; Brigit.

Brigid (Celtic, Irish) see Brigantia; Brigit.

Brigindo (Celtic) see Brigantia.

Brigit Brighid, Bridget, Brigid (British, Irish, Scottish)

Also known as: Bride, Brig.

Patroness of culture and learning. Goddess of healing. Brigit is the daughter of Dagda, who was a leader of the Tuatha De Danann. In some myths, she has two sisters of the same name; however, this could be her aspects as a triple-goddess, patroness of poets, healers and smiths. She is said to have a brother, Angus, who is the Irish Cupid. Brigit married a Fomorian, Bress, and had a son, Ruadan. Ruadan was slain by the Tuatha De Danann weapon-maker, Goibnui. In her grief, Brigit initiated the first “keening” in Ireland, a wailing lamentation. She is often equated with the Celtic Brigantia, as they share the attributes of fertility and abundance. However, Brigit had the additional aspects of culture and skills. She has been equated with Dana and Anu, but the worship of Brigit was more widespread as illustrated in the eventual adoration of St. Brigit. Like Brigantia, she is referred to as the Celtic version of Minerva. See also Angus; Anu; Boann; Bress; Brigantia; Dagda; Dana; Minerva; Ruadan; Tuatha De Danann.

Brigitte (Haitian)

Also known as: Maman Brigitte.

Deity of cemeteries. Goddess of the dead. Female counterpart of Ghede who was an aspect of Baron Samedi. See also Ghede.

Brihadratha, King (India) Big Carriage. See also Jara-Sandha.

Brihaspati (Brahmanic, Hindu, Vedic; India)

Also known as: Angirasa, Bramanaspati, Purohita (the family priest of the gods), Vyasa (an incarnation in the fourth Divapara age).

He is a creator deity, a god of incantation and ritual, who is called the “Chaplain,” “Master of Formula,” “Creator of All Things,” and “He Whom the Gods Themselves Would Consult.” In the Vedic tradition, he is an abstract deity, known as the first of the Vedic priests. To the Brahmans, he is the divine sage Angirasa, son of Angiras. The Puranas tell of a battle between the gods, with Brihaspati leading the Angirasa line of seers, and the Asuras, led by Shukra (the personification of Venus) of the Brigus. His spouse, Tara (the personification of the stars), was abducted by the moon, Soma. A divine war, known as the Tarakamaya, erupted. Indra supported Brihaspati, and Rudra, the Daityas and the Danavas. The sage Usanas, who had an ancient feud with Brihaspati, supported Soma. The earth, Bhumi, was so unsettled that she appealed to Brahma to bring an end to the battle. He acknowledged her request and ordered Soma to allow Tara to return to Brihaspati. She gave birth to a dazzling son named Budha, who represents the planet Mercury, and had to admit to Brahma that he was the child of Soma. When Brihaspati found out, he was so enraged that he turned her to ashes. Brahma intercepted and returned her in a purified form and Brihaspati reunited with her. Soma was disinherited by Varuna as punishment for his role in the event. Brihaspati is one of the Rishis, who were poets, sages and prophets born from Brahma’s mind. His son Bharadvaja also became a poet and sage to the Pandavas. Another son, Kacha, was sent to study with the chief priest of the Asuras to learn the secret of the charm that restores life to the dead. The Asuras killed him several times, but he was restored to life by his teacher. The Balis of Ceylon identified Brihaspati as the planet Jupiter, but worshiped him as phallic. He is depicted with a large halo of moon and stars over a conical headdress. His body is gold, his legs striped blue. In each hand he holds a phallus. Sometimes he is shown holding a container of soma in his left hand. He is also shown sitting or leaning on a tiger. At his feet rests a half-fish, half-human monster. His vehicle, the Niti-ghosha, is drawn by eight pale steeds. He is also shown with seven mouths, sharp horns, a hundred wings, holding an ax and a bow. His day of the week is Thursday and his zodiac sign is either Sagittarius or Pisces. See also Bharadvaja; Bhumi; Brighus; Daityas; Pandavas; Prajapati; Rishi; Rudra; Tara (A); Vach.

Brimir (Norse; Teutonic)

Giant. His hall will survive Ragnarok. It is a warm place where there will be plenty of food and drink. See also Ragnarok.

Brimo (Greek) see Demeter; Hecate; Persephone; Rhea.

Briseis (Greek) see Brises.

Brises (Greek) see Achilles; Calchas.

Brisingamen (Norse; Teutonic)

Also known as: Brisings’ Necklace, Sviagris.

Freyja had sex with the four dwarfs, Alfrigg, Berling, Dvalin and Grerr, to gain ownership of the deified necklace, Brisingamen. Odin was so angry when he heard about Freyja and the dwarfs, he forced Loki to steal Brisingamen. In the meantime, Freyja broke the necklace when she heard that the giant Thrym demanded to marry her as compensation for returning to Thor his magic hammer, Mjollnir. See also Dvalin; Dwarfs; Freyja, Mjollnir; Thor; Thrym.

Brisings’ Necklace (Teutonic) see Brisingamen.

Britomaris (Greek) see Britomartis.

Britomartis Britomaris (Crete, Greek)

Also known as: Aphaea, Aphaia (her name in Aegina, meaning “invisible”), Dictynna (“Lady of the Nets” or “Netted One”).

Goddess of fishers, hunters, sailors. Britomartis, the daughter of Zeus and Carme, was a Cretan nymph. She received the name Britomartis from King Minos of Crete because she refused his advances and tried to kill herself. She flung herself from a cliff into the ocean. The fishing nets that she had invented as a gift to mortals saved her life. From that time, she was known as Dictynna (“netted one”). For protecting her chastity, Artemis placed her with the immortals in the heavens as a star. Other sources state she ruled the eastern end of the island as Britomartis and the western section as Dictynna. She became an aid to navigators. Her name became a title of Artemis as a fish goddess. As Aphaia, a local deity of Aegina, Britomartis is comparable to Athena, the goddess of wisdom. As she attempted to escape the advances of Minos, she was trapped in a fishing net and brought to Aegina by the fishermen. One of the men fell in love with her and ran into a densely wooded area and disappeared. In another rendition, her attempted escape from Minos caused her death. Her name was changed to Dictynna and she was made immortal. See also Artemis; Minos; Dictyanna; Pasiphae.

Broad Splendor (Teutonic)

Another name for Balder’s residence, Breidablik (q.v.).

Brokk (Norse; Teutonic)

A dwarf who, along with Sindri or as some say Eitri, manufactured the golden hair for the goddess Sif after Loki cut off her real hair. Loki also received Skidbladnir, a magic ship for Freyr, and a magic spear named Gungnir for Odin. See also Dwarfs; Eitri.

Bromius and Evan (Greek) see Bacchus.

Bronte (Greek) see Helios.

Brontes (Greek)

“Thunder.” Brontes, one of the Cyclopes, has a single eye in the middle of his forehead. See also Acamas (D); Aegaeon; Cyclopes; Gaea.

Broteas (Greek)

The son of Tantalus and Dione, the brother of Niobe and Pelops, Broteas was renowned for the figure of the Mother Goddess that he had carved in stone. When he was asked by the great hunter-warrior goddess Artemis to carve her likeness, he refused. Broteas went insane and burned himself to death. See also Artemis; Niobe; Pelops; Tantalus (A).

Broth of Oblivion (China) see Mi-Hung-T’ang.

Brownie (Scot)

This goblin is similiar to the elves. There is a possibility that Brownie was originally a pre-Celtic god. See also Dwarfs; Elves.

Brud (Teutonic) see Heimdall.

Brunhilde (Teutonic) see Brynhild.

Brut (Celtic)

Also known as: Brute, Brutus.

Deified mortal. In Geoffrey of Monmouth’s account of early history, a descendant of Aeneas who, after his conquest of Albion, became king of the island, then called Britain after his name. At the direction of Diana, Brut the mortal and a group of Trojans founded Britain, which was at that time known as Albion and was inhabited by a race of giants.

Brute (Celtic) see Brut.

Brutus (Celtic) see Brut.

Brynhild Brunhild, Brunhilde (Teutonic)

As Brynhild, she was one of the Valkyries. In some versions she was queen of Iceland and wife of Gunther. Associated with Siegfried. See also Valkyries.

Buan-Ann (Celtic) see Anu (B).

Buana (Celtic, Irish) see Boann.

Bubastis (Greek) see Bast; Buto; Uadjit.

Buchis Bacis (Egypt)

Also known as: Bakh, Bakha, Bkha, Bukhe (Egypt), Menthu-Ra, Mont.

Buchis, the sacred bull, lived at Hermonthis in Upper Egypt. It is believed that Mont (also known as Menthu, Mentu, and Muntu) was often incarnated as Buchis. As Bacis or Bakh he was the Egyptian bull representing the sun-god Ra. Buchis is also the Greek rendering of the Egyptian Bukhe. Buchis is also thought to be an incarnation of Osiris. His counterpart was the sacred Apis bull at Memphis. He is shown with black hair that grows in the opposite direction from other animals. He changes his color every hour of the day. See also Aa Nefer; Apis (A); Mnevis; Mont.

Buddh (India) see Buddha.

Buddha Boodh, Boodha, Bouddha, Buddh (Buddhist, Hindu; India)

Also known as: Buddha-Avatara (Vishnu’s ninth avatar), Gautama, Gotama, Jina, Sakyamuni (“Sage of Sakya”), Siddartha (“One Who Has Achieved His Purpose”), Shih-Chia-mou-ni (China), Tathagata (“One Who Has Thus Arrived”).

The name Buddha means the “Awakened One.” As the future Buddha or Bodhisattva (meaning the would-be-Buddha), he had passed through thousands of years before coming to earth. Most Western scholars agree that his birth date was 566–486 B.C.E. Others say the date is 563–486, or 558–478 B.C.E. While Buddha was in Tusita heaven, he determined the time, date, location, and the mother who would give birth to him. He came into the world as Gautama, the son of Maya and a Rajah, Suddhodhana, the chief officer of the Sakyas in Kapilavastu. Maya dreamed that a white elephant with six tusks entered her womb. Then she saw the full moon drop into her lap. Sixty-four Brahmans predicted the birth of a son who would be a Buddha or a universal emperor. The quasi-virgin birth of her son followed, as he issued forth from her right side. At the same moment, his future wife, his horse, elephant, charioteer and the bo-tree (Ficus religiosa) were born. Seven days after his birth, his mother died of joy. Raised by his mother’s sister, Mahaprajapti, he grew up surrounded by luxury. When he was sixteen years old, he won his bride, Yasodhara, the daughter of Dandapani, in an armed contest. They became the parents of a son, Rahula. At twenty-nine years of age, Gautama tired of worldly ways. His faithful driver and confidant Channa prepared the horse Kanthaka for his master. Gautama left his wife and son and retired to contemplate in the wilderness for six years. During this period he survived torments and temptations and arrived at a state of complete enlightenment (bodhi) as he sat under a banyan tree. He could have entered Nirvana at that point, but his compassion led him back to the world to share his wisdom. Assisted by his son, he wandered throughout India and taught to anyone who would listen. In his eightieth year, he left the world and retired to Paranirvana, the highest state of absolute bliss. Buddha regarded himself as a Tathagata: one who has “arrived,” one who has experienced and transcended the imperfections of life. Numerous stories of Buddha’s life are found in a collection of stories known as the “Jatakas.” According to some, Buddha was the ninth avatar of Vishnu (Buddha-Avatara). Buddhists do not accept this theory. The original Buddha was depicted as a wheel, empty throne, or a tree. The white elephant was a royal symbol. In later times, he was depicted with short, curly hair, seated on or in a lotus. In the Mayayana tradition, Buddha is sometimes depicted in princely attire complete with jewels and a diadem. Buddha, Vairocana and Maitreya share the same mudra: dharmacakra (both hands against the breast, left hand covering the right). This mudra is the mudra of preaching. Often he is shown with the jnana mudra (the hand held up with the thumb touching the tip of the index or middle finger; the sign of insight). The book containing the essential teachings of Buddha is known as “The Dhammapada” (q.v.). For a similar legend, see Mahavir. See also Arhats; Asvaghosa; Brahma; Dipamkara; Hariti; Jagannath; Manushi Buddhas; Mara; Marichi (A); Maya (A); Miroku-Bosatsu (Japan); Mucalinda; Sakra; Sakyamuni; Stupa; Tushita; Vairocana; Vajrapani; Vishnu.

Buddha-Avatara (India) see Buddha; Vishnu.

Buddha Dakini (Tibet) see Khados.

Buddha Dakinis (India) see Dakinis; Khados.

Buddhi (India)

Goddess of wisdom and knowledge. See also Ganesha; Karttikeya.

Buddhist Universe (India) see Chakravala.

Budha (India)

The son of Tara and Soma, and spouse of Ida. He personifies the planet Mercury. See also Brihaspati; Ida (B); Tara (A).

Bugan Bigan (Ifugao People, Philippines)

He is the son of the first woman and brother of Wigan, the mother of humanity after the Deluge. See also Wigan.

Bui (Teutonic) see Cailleach Bheare; Heimdall.

Bukhe (Egypt, Greek) see Buchis.

Bulaia (Greek) see Athena.

Bull of Amentet (Egypt) see Apis (A).

Bull of Confusion (Egypt) see Iti.

Bull of Meroe (Egypt) see Ra.

Bull of the Underworld (Egypt) see Apis (A).

Bull of the West (Egypt) see Osiris.

Bumba (Bantu, Bushongo People, Africa)

Also known as: Chembe, Jambi (possibly the same, or a similar creation god), Nyambe, Nyambi, Nzambi.

Bumba is the high god of creation, who established the tabus and appointed the rulers. After he returned to heaven, he only communicated with mortals in dreams. He is described as a giant white being who vomited up the sun, moon, stars and living creatures. He taught the mortal, Kerikeri, the secret of making fire. He is similar to Leza (q.v.) See also Nyambe.

Bumerali (Aborigine People, Australia)

Lightning goddess. See also Pakadringa.

Bunbulama (Aborigine People, Australia)

Goddess of Rain. See also Bumerali; Pakadringa.

Bundahish Bundahisn, Bundahishn

Also known as: Zandagahih (Zoroastrian; Persia).

Thought to have been translated from an original Zend manuscript, the “Bundahish” is an important Zoroastrian work encompassing the six days of creation, astronomy, the wars of Ahura Mazda and numerous other topics. Another important work is the “Denkart,” an encyclopedia of religious lore. See also Ahura Mazda; Ahzi Dahaka; Avesta; Tishtrya; Yashts.

Bundahishn (Zoroastrian) see Bundahish.

Bundahisn (Zoroastrian) see Bundahish.

Bundinskeggi (Teutonic) see Heimdall.

Bunjil Bun-Jil (Kulin, Wurunjeri People, Australia)

Also known as: Biral, Daramulun, Mami-Ngata, Ngurunderi, Pun-Gel.

The supreme being. He is said to have two wives. His son is Binbeal, the rainbow. He could have other children. Bunjil created man out of clay while his brother, the Bat (Ngunung-ngunnut), brought women out of water. Bunjil is probably the same as Baiame, Daramulun, or Nurrundere. See also Daramulun; Gidja; Pun-Gel.

Bunomus (Greek) see Helen.

Bunosi (Melanesia)

Bunosi is the snake child of a normal woman and the brother of Kafisi. He coughed up the first plants and pigs. His large tail fills a room. See also Kafisi; Marruni.

Bunyip (Australia)

These water monsters were involved in the great deluge. Apparently, a group of men caught a small Bunyip. Its mother was so angry she flooded the land until it covered everything. The people who managed to escape were turned into black swans.

Bur (Teutonic) see Buri.

Bura-penu Bhura (India)

God of light and mate of Tari-penu, also known as Bhuri, goddess of darkness.

Buraq (Islamic) see Mohammed.

Bure (Teutonic) see Buri.

Buri Bori, Bur, Bure (Norse; Teutonic)

In the beginning, before earth and heaven existed, Buri was created from ice by the cow Audhumla. He had a son named Bor who married Bestla, the daughter of the frost giant Bolthorn. Their children, all males, were Odin, Vili, and Ve. In the war with the frost giants, Buri, along with his sons, succeeded in slaying Ymir and all the frost giants except for Bergelmir (q.v.). See also Audhumla; Bestla; Bor; Ve; Vili; Ymir.

Bursiris (Egypt) see Osiris.

Bushongo People — Creation Legend (Africa) see Bumba.

Bushyansta (Zoroastrian; Persia)

These yellow demons of lethargy and sloth cause men to oversleep and neglect their spiritual obligations. They are associated with Azhi Dahaka and the female demon of corpses, Nasu (q.v.). The Bushyasta are depicted with long hands.

Buso (Malay)

The Buso live in the branches of graveyard trees and feast upon the flesh of the dead. Forests and rocks are their favorite haunts. They have curly hair, two long pointed teeth, one eye which can be red or yellow, a flat nose and long bodies.

Buta (India) see Bhutas.

Butes (A) (Greek)

When Butes, the Argonaut son of Poseidon or Teleon and Zeuxippe, was sailing from Colchis, he jumped overboard to swim to the Sirens. Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, rescued him. See also Argonauts; Poseidon; Sirens.

Butes (B) (Greek) He is the son of Boreas (q.v.).

Butes (C) (Greek)

Pandion and Zeuxippe are his parents. His twin brother is Erechtheus and other siblings are Philomela and Procne. His spouse is Cthonia, the daughter of Erechtheus and Praxithea (Butes is Cthonia’s father’s twin). They became the parents of Erechtheus II (also known as Erichthonius). See also Zetes (for Erechtheus).

Buto (A) Bouto (Egypt)

Also known as: Edjo, Gozu Tenno (Japan), Inadjet, Uadjit, Uajet, Uatchet, Uatchura, Uazai.

Protector goddess. Mother of the sun and moon. Buto is the Greek name of the goddess who protects Lower Egypt or as some say, a Greek transcription of the name of the town, Per Uadjit, where she was worshiped. Buto is also the name of the swamp where Isis hid the coffin containing the body of Osiris. Buto is a snake goddess often represented in the form of a cobra. She is often depicted with a red crown on her head. She was sometimes shown as a snake, often a cobra, or as a woman with her head topped by a vulture and crown. She is shown both with and without wings. Buto is sometimes shown beside the vulture-goddess Nekhebet. In this depiction, she is called Nebti (meaning two mistresses). Buto is identified with the goddesses Bast and Sekhmet when she is shown in cat or lion form. She is the equivalent to Leto and Latona. See also Gozu Tenno; Latona (mother of Apollo); Leto; Uatchet.

Buto (B) (Japan)

Also known as: Gozu Tenno, Susanowo.

As Buto crossed the earth in search of a spouse, he stopped in southern India and asked the wealthy King Kotan-Shorai for food and shelter. The king refused him entry. Buto carried on with his journey and went to a palace under the sea where he found his bride-to-be. On his return trip, he stopped in on the inhospitable Kotan, chopped his body into five pieces, and massacred his people. Kotan’s poor brother Somin-Shorai, known as the god of hospitality, welcomed Buto. In exchange, for thanks and to discharge his indebtedness, Buto gave him a talisman to protect him from disease. Buto is an aspect of Gozu Tenno, the protector against plagues, and is thought to be of foreign import. Buto is also said to be an aspect of the storm god, Susanowo. The above myth pertaining to Buto is comparable to a myth about Susanowo. Buto is depicted as ox-headed. Regarding the importance of hospitality, see Susanowo. See also Fuji; Gozu Tenno.

Butterfly Maiden (Hopi People, North America)

A kachina who rules springtime.

Buxenus (Celtic) Box-tree god. See also Abellio.

Byamee (Australia) see Baiame.

Byampsa (Tibet) see Maitreya; Mi-Lo Fu.

Byanu (Egypt) see Benu.

Byas River (India) see Vasistha.

Byelobog Bielbog (Slavic)

Also known as: Bylun.

God of light. Both names mean “White God.” In Slavic mythology, Byelobog has an evil counterpart called Chernobog or “black god.” Some say Byelobog only shows himself during daylight hours, and is a benevolent god of travelers who lose their way. He is shown as an old man with a white beard dressed in white robes. See also Chernobog.

Byelun (Slavic) see Byelobog.

Byleipt (Teutonic) see Loki.

Byleipter (Teutonic) see Loki.

Byleist (Teutonic) see Loki.

Bylun (Slavic) see Byelobog.

Byul-Soon (Korea)

Star goddess.