Bicolano Myths : March 2024

Diwata: Enchanting Nature Spirits and old gods of the Philippines

a diwata in Philippine mythology is a type of deity or spirit. can either be divine or ancestral. They were the gods and goddesses and ancestral spirits venerated and worship by pre-Islamic and pre-Christianize settlers of Philippines. The term "diwata" has taken on various levels of meaning since its assimilation into the mythology of the pre-colonial Filipinos. It has its origin in the Devata beings from Hinduism and Buddhism.

What is a Diwata?

Diwata are magical beings in Philippine mythology, ranging from mighty sky gods,ancient war deities to gentle fairies,dryads,nymphs even anscestral spirits. These mythical figures, both divine and ancestral, can be male or female, often depicted as stunningly beautiful with ageless features and blemish-free skin, ranging from luminous fair to golden brown.

The term "diwata" in Philippine mythology refers to a type of deity or spirit, embodying a spectrum of divine and ancestral entities. Originating from the Devata beings in Hinduism and Buddhism, the diwata evolved in meaning as it assimilated into the indigenous belief systems. Before the Spanish colonization, the diwata were revered as gods and goddesses, deeply integrated into the spiritual practices of the pre-Islamic and pre-Christianized settlers of the Philippines.

When the Spanish conquered the Philippines the commonly used meaning of the term reduced from goddess to dryad-like spirit which was considered benevolent or neutral. The ancestral diwata closely resembles the Na Tuk Kong and The religious belief of the Datuk Keramat worship can be found in Malaysia, Singapore and along the Strait of Malacca. who were believed to be once humans who had a standing in society either for their position or special attributes. They could have been an important leader, a renowned healer, a silat warrior, a pious man or even a shaman.

In modern concept due to the Spanish destruction of most of the pre-colonial Philippine culture the rank and image of a Diwata from goddess was turned into enchantress or nymph, being beautiful with preternatural allure that lives in the forest and trees, and on the contraty to the modern day belief that all diwata are female the term actually "diwata" applies on both male and female deity. They are depicted as superior in beauty(some having golden skin, some having luminously light skin) and also superior in knowledge and in fighting skills. They are prayed upon and given offerings to grand request and to answer prayers. These divinities were closely interwoven on the lifestyle of people. The divinities were describe as they were in the past, having human characteristics, like humans some are evil, some are good. Many stories about the workings of these supernatural beings are often told and are passed down orally

The gods and goddesses participate in the affairs of men and this belief local reinforce of the power of these deities, as those people who participate in community affairs witness how this gods, invoked during complicated rituals, cure an ailing patient or bring success in hunting, fishing and agriculture, even in war. The diwata were the forgotten paragon of beauty and strength their worship replaced by saints and their legacy almost forgotten.

Diwata: the old Gods and Goddesses of Pre-Colonial Philippines

In pre-colonial Philippine mythology, the diwata emerge as a pantheon of gods, goddesses, and ancestral spirits. These divine beings, revered and worshipped by the indigenous people before the arrival of Spanish colonizers, held a significant place in the spiritual and cultural landscape of the archipelago. This essay explores the multifaceted nature of the diwata, tracing their origins, transformations, and their enduring legacy despite the challenges posed by colonization.

diwata - philippine deities -mga diyos

Transformation under Spanish Rule:

With the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, the meaning of the term "diwata" underwent a transformation. Once considered goddesses, the diwata were reduced to dryad-like spirits, perceived as benevolent or neutral entities. This shift in perception was influenced by the destruction of pre-colonial Philippine culture by the Spanish, altering the rank and image of the diwata from powerful deities to enchantresses or nymphs. The diwata became associated with the forest and trees, believed to possess preternatural allure.

diwata

Contrary to modern misconceptions, the term "diwata" applies to both male and female deities. These divine beings are depicted as superior in beauty, with some having golden skin and others possessing luminously light skin. Additionally, they are believed to be superior in knowledge and fighting skills. The diwata are prayed to and offered sacrifices to grant requests and answer prayers, reflecting their integral role in the lives of the indigenous people.

Diwata in Modern Concept:

Diwata

In the modern context, the image of the diwata is often that of enchantresses, dryads or nymphs dwelling in the forest with beautiful long black hair with luminous pale skin, or golden brown skin . However, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical richness of the diwata, which includes both male and female deities. Their stories, often passed down orally, recount their human-like characteristics, with some being portrayed as benevolent and others as malevolent.

The Forgotten Paragons:

The diwata were once revered as paragons of beauty and strength, actively participating in the affairs of humanity. They played a crucial role in healing, success in various endeavors, and community rituals. As the Spanish colonization unfolded, the worship of diwata was supplanted by the veneration of saints, and their legacy became overshadowed. Yet, the diwata persist as a testament to the resilience of pre-colonial Philippine culture and spirituality.

diwata

Diwata

The forest Diwata enchanting forest spirits akin to dryad-fairy make their homes in large acacia and banyan trees, acting as protectors of the forests and mountains. Visitors to these sacred areas must seek permission, as disrespect can lead to curses causing sickness or even death. meanwhile the Divine Diwata (diwata ng kaintaasan, gods and goddesses) are said to reside in the heavens or Skyworld some reside in Mountains of Volcanoes. In Pre-colonial times, Diwata were revered as benevolent gods and goddesses, invoked for health, good crops, and fortune and even during war time. However, they could also bring misfortune through curses if not treated with respect. Some are even invoked during battle and wartime.

The term "Diwata" has ancient roots, originating from Hinduism and Buddhism, specifically the Sanskrit term "Deva" or "devata." In Hinduism, Devas are celestial beings associated with the cosmos, found in epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. When the Spanish arrived in the Philippines, the meaning of Diwata shifted from goddesses to benevolent, dryad-like spirits, resembling the Na Tuk Kong and Datuk Keramat of Malaysia.

FOREST DIWATA

DIVINE DIWATA

Origins and Attributes:

The term "Diwata" has its roots in Hinduism and Buddhism, specifically from the Sanskrit term Deva or devata, associated with celestial beings. In pre-colonial Philippines, Diwata were revered as benevolent gods and guardian spirits, invoked for health, crop growth, and fortune. They can be male or female, possessing luminous fair skin or golden-brown skin, and are generally depicted as human-looking but extemely beautiful. Tales often depicted them as Superior in beauty, intelect and fighting skills.

diwata

Different indigenous groups in the Philippines have unique beliefs about Diwata. Early Visayans and Tagalogs had Diwata and Anitos, each with specific roles, from battlefield blessings to house-related rituals. The Batak of Palawan, Tagbanuwas, Mandayas, Bagobos, Manobos, and Subanos all acknowledge the existence of Diwata, each group attributing its own characteristics and significance to these spirits.

In contemporary Philippine culture, Diwata are often depicted as beautiful figures, reminiscent of European dryads or fairies. They may be male or female, with fair skin, long black hair, and an ageless appearance. These modern representations often include small winged fairies called Lambana, aiding Diwata in their tasks.

Diwata as Sky gods and goddessess in Ancient times

The Philippines has a rich and diverse history with numerous indigenous cultures and societies, each with its own unique beliefs and practices.

In pre-colonial times, the archipelago was home to various ethnic groups, such as the Tagalog, Visayan, Igorot, and many others. These societies had their own spiritual and cosmological beliefs, often centered around animism and the worship of nature spirits, deities, and ancestors.

Descriptions of people as being superior in beauty, knowledge, and fighting skills is a part of oral traditions or legends within specific communities. The idea of luminous fair skin or golden-browned skin could be symbolic or metaphorical rather than a literal description.

It's also worth noting that different regions and communities had their own unique perspectives and interpretations of their history and cultural practices. While there were commonalities, there was also considerable diversity among the indigenous peoples of the Philippines.

philippine deities

Diwata

the Diwata and the Lambana

In Philippine mythology, Lambana and Diwata are distinct beings with different characteristics and roles.

In Philippine mythology at large, Lambana are recognized as winged small fairies, mythical diminutive beings with delicate and graceful builds, usually standing a few inches to a foot tall. Characterized by translucent wings reminiscent of butterflies or dragonflies.They possess the ability to change their size, temporary loosing their wings and allowing them to appear more human when needed. In some Tagalog stories, Lambana are portrayed as emissaries or minions of a higher being known as "Diwata." Due to their otherworldly glow and beauty, characters in these stories may mistakenly confuse Lambana with Diwata.

Oral mythology

In some Tagalog stories, Lambana are portrayed as emissaries or minions of a higher being known as "Diwata." Due to their otherworldly glow and beauty, characters in these stories may mistakenly confuse Lambana with Diwata.

Some stories portray that the Diwata and lambana are magically connected and have a symbiotic relationship, akin to the way a worker bee serves a queen bee.

There are also tales describing that if a Diwata experiences heartbreak caused by a mortal, the Diwata's Lambanas would transform into hideous humanoid monsters with sharp claws and razor-sharp teeth resembling those of sharks.

what's the difference between lambana and diwata?

Diwata(left) Lambana (right)

The Lambana are diminutive winged fairies capable of assuming temporary human form, albeit at the cost of their wings. They are portrayed as symbiotic entities intricately linked and bonded with a Diwata, whether it be a deity, goddess, or a forest dryad. Serving as emissaries and companions to the Diwata, they share a magical connection with their divine counterparts, exemplifying a harmonious relationship that transcends mere companionship.

Lambana: Lambana are small fairies in Philippine mythology, portrayed as diminutive beings with delicate builds, translucent wings resembling butterflies or dragonflies, and colorful attire inspired by nature. They are associated with a magical glow and have the ability to change their size, appearing more human when needed. In Bicolano mythology, Lambana also refers to a symbol connected to the god Batala and small creatures with dragonfly wings. There are stories about Lambana transforming into monsters if a Diwata experiences heartbreak caused by a mortal. Contemporary portrayals often emphasize their beauty and grace, resembling European fairy depictions.

Diwata: Diwata, on the other hand, are magical beings ranging from mighty sky gods to gentle fairies and nymphs in Philippine mythology. They can be male or female, often depicted as stunningly beautiful with ageless features. Diwata include nature spirits residing in large trees, acting as protectors of forests and mountains, and divine entities living in the heavens or mountains. In pre-colonial times, Diwata were revered as benevolent gods and goddesses, invoked for various blessings, but they could also bring misfortune if not treated with respect. The term "Diwata" has its roots in Hinduism and Buddhism, specifically from the Sanskrit term Deva or devata.

Comparison:

While Lambana are specifically associated with nature and often synchronized with Diwata, they are smaller, winged, and delicately built. Diwata encompass a broader range of beings, including sky gods, ancient deities, and nature spirits. Lambana can symbolize a visual representation in Bicolano mythology, whereas Diwata have a more significant mythological role. Lambana have stories of transformation into monsters, a theme not commonly attributed to Diwata. Both beings have evolved in meaning and portrayal over time, with contemporary media emphasizing their beauty and grace.

Lambana and diwata

Diwata Confusion with the Engkato and Spanish Influence: diwata (gods and goddesses)worshiped by the settlers of various regions and colonies (in the ancient Philippines) while the Engkanto (specifically the Tamawo,) were not worshipped but were merely respected, The Spanish colonizers thought that the diwata were generally female and the Tamawo which the Spanish called Engkanto were generally male (since the Spanish language has grammatical gender unlike the Visayan, and Tagalog language that is gender neutral)

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Modern diwata myths

Spanish desctruction of old culture can be attributed to the downgrading of the diwata in stories. Foreign dominance and foreign influence forced changed the narrative of mythologies.

Notable Diwata figures associated with specific locations include Maria Sinukuan, linked to Mount Arayat in Pampanga;Descriptions of people as being superior in beauty, knowledge, and fighting skills is a part of oral traditions or legends within specific communities. The idea of luminous fair skin or golden-browned skin could be symbolic or metaphorical rather than a literal description., the mountain goddess of Mount Lantoy in Argao, Cebu; and Maria Makiling, a diwata sometimes depicted as a lambana ) associated with Mount Makiling in Laguna. Despite their Christian names introduced during the Spanish occupation, these Diwatas retain their cultural significance.

The name "Maria" itself has a fascinating history, evolving from the Roman Empire as a feminine form of Marius and later becoming associated with Jesus' mother Mary. Its Semitic roots suggest an Egyptian origin, possibly meaning "beloved" or "love."

Maria Sinukuan: Diwata associated with Mount Arayat in Pampanga, Philippines.
Maria Cacao: Mountain goddess linked to Mount Lantoy in Argao, Cebu, Philippines.
Maria Makiling: Diwata or lambana associated with Mount Makiling in Laguna, Philippines. Noted for averting deluges, storms, and earthquakes.

Contemporary Depictions and popular media

In modern times, Diwata are often depicted as beautiful, ageless figures similar to European dryads, fairies, or nymphs. They can be male or female, known for their blemish-free and fair-colored skin, long black hair, and are often portrayed wearing white. Small winged fairies called Lambana assist them in carrying out their tasks.

diwata

The stories and legends about Diwata race are still being orally passed down to this day all over the Philippines . In Pop culture and Media The Diwata has appeared in numerous books, tv shows and films. Popular shows like Encantadia in the Philippines depicts Diwata as otherworldly race of beautiful beings with powers, beautiful and elegant.

diwata

Diwata

Diwata

diwata

In essence, Diwata are more than mythical beings in Philippine folklore; they represent a bridge between ancient beliefs and contemporary culture, showcasing the enduring enchantment of these nature spirits in the hearts of the Filipino people.