Paros in Bicolano Mythology

 

Paros: 

god of the winds

lord of the skies

In Bicolano mythology, Paros the divine embodiment of the winds, a force both ever-changing and powerful. Initially characterized by arrogance and polygamy, Paros undergoes a transformative journey through love and responsibility, ultimately becoming a revered deity ruling over the skies and seas alongside Dagat. This essay delves into the myth of Paros, exploring his complex nature, his role in the cosmic order, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Parenting the Four Powerful Children

The love between Paros and Dagat bears fruit in the form of four powerful children: Daga, Adlao, Bulan, and Bituoon. Each child embodies distinct qualities associated with the forces of nature, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the elements. This divine family becomes instrumental in maintaining the balance between the skies and seas, influencing the destinies of the Bicolano people.

Legacy and Cosmic Order

Tawong Lipod

TAWONG LIPOD-  as a general term for invisible mythological creatures like fairies, nymphs, giants, elves, etc. 

Mythology

Upon Paros's slumber, his energy gives birth to the Taong Lipod, or the wind people,  a type of female spirit of the clouds and waters,  are a member of a class of celestial beings in Bicolano culture,who later plays the role of a unseen or invisible  "nymph" or "fairy" ''elves'' ''evil spirits'' ''evil engkanto''. As wind elemantals they are  Described to be slender,beautiful, youthful and elegant, and are said to be able to take flight and control winds. representing the enduring influence of the winds in Bicolano culture. Furthermore, Paros contributes to the emergence of the trinity of the most powerful gods in Bicol: Gugurang, and Asuang. This trinity, along with lesser gods like Onos and Batala, shapes the cosmic order and reinforces the intricate web of deities governing the Bicolano mythological landscape.

Tawong Lipod

NOTE "Tawong Lipod" is an old term in Philippine mythology referring to invisible wind creatures. At first, they were thought to be friendly female spirits linked to clouds and water in Bicolano culture. But over time, they transformed into malicious beings known as Engkanto. Originally described as slender and beautiful, able to control winds, they are now depicted as dark and harmful invisible creatures. In today's Philippines, Tawong Lipod is often shown in a negative light in horror stories, causing sickness and trouble for people instead of being seen as kind spirits. In old Ibalong some of the heroes such as Baltog was descended from the Tawong lipod thus having divine origin.