Legend of Kapre - The Terrifying Tree Giant Trickster in Philippine Folklore скачать в хорошем качестве

Legend of Kapre - The Terrifying Tree Giant Trickster in Philippine Folklore

In Philippine folklore, the Kapre is often depicted as a colossal creature resembling a tree giant—tall, dark, hairy, and muscular. Found perched in the branches of large trees such as acacias, mangoes, bamboo, and banyan (known as balete in the Philippines), the Kapre exudes a potent body odor while leisurely indulging in smoking. Clad in the traditional Northern Philippine loincloth called bahag, some accounts suggest that a mystical belt renders the Kapre invisible to human eyes. Legends also speak of a magical white stone in its possession, slightly smaller than a quail egg, capable of granting wishes to those fortunate enough to acquire it. The term "Kapre" has linguistic roots in the Arabic word "kafir," denoting a non-believer. Introduced by the Spanish during their encounters with the Moors, it was later applied to describe indigenous Negrito ethnic groups with dark complexions, akin to Black Africans. Reflecting biased depictions from the Spanish era, the modern portrayal of Kapres has evolved from prejudiced representations of Negrito tribes by lowland Christianized ethnic groups. Kapres, deemed nocturnal and omnivorous, are not inherently malevolent. However, their temperament can take a turn if the tree they inhabit faces the ax. Seeking companionship, a Kapre might establish contact with humans, especially if drawn to a woman. A unique bond forged with a human, driven by love, leads to a lifelong connection where the Kapre shadows its "love interest." Those in amicable relations with a Kapre gain the ability to see it, and sitting atop it allows others to perceive the colossal entity. Known tricksters, Kapres revel in pranks, causing travelers to lose their way in mountains or woods. Their skill in disorienting extends to familiar locales, where individuals may find themselves befuddled in their own garden or home. Encounters with Kapre enchantment involve phenomena like rustling tree branches without a strong wind, echoing laughter from an unseen source, billowing smoke from tree peaks, and sightings of big red eyes in forested areas during the night. The abundance of fireflies in wooded regions is believed to be embers from Kapre's lit cigars or tobacco pipes. For copyright matters, please email us at [email protected]