Difference between revisions of "Skinwalker"
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== From the [[Pad of Definitions]] == | == From the [[Pad of Definitions]] == | ||
− | From [[1.02 Wendigo (episode)] | + | From [[1.02 Wendigo (episode)]] |
Numerous cultures all over the world believe in some version of a Skinwalker , which is closely related to beliefs about werewolves and other were creatures. The best documented Skinwalker beliefs are those of the Navajo yenaldooshi . The yenaldooshi are evil human beings who have gained supernatural power by murdering a close relative. The creature travels by night, spreading misery and desecrating holy things. He or she is usually naked, except for a coyote skin. The yenaldooshi is also said to have the power to assume the form of a coyote or other animal. | Numerous cultures all over the world believe in some version of a Skinwalker , which is closely related to beliefs about werewolves and other were creatures. The best documented Skinwalker beliefs are those of the Navajo yenaldooshi . The yenaldooshi are evil human beings who have gained supernatural power by murdering a close relative. The creature travels by night, spreading misery and desecrating holy things. He or she is usually naked, except for a coyote skin. The yenaldooshi is also said to have the power to assume the form of a coyote or other animal. |
Revision as of 14:18, 17 February 2007
From the Pad of Definitions
Numerous cultures all over the world believe in some version of a Skinwalker , which is closely related to beliefs about werewolves and other were creatures. The best documented Skinwalker beliefs are those of the Navajo yenaldooshi . The yenaldooshi are evil human beings who have gained supernatural power by murdering a close relative. The creature travels by night, spreading misery and desecrating holy things. He or she is usually naked, except for a coyote skin. The yenaldooshi is also said to have the power to assume the form of a coyote or other animal.
The yenaldooshi's power comes from its use of corpse powder, which is made from human cadavers. Touching the corpse powder curses a person with sickness or death. This is an inversion pollen usage, which Navajos sprinkle to produce blessings.
In Norse folklore, a Skinwalker is a person who can travel in the shape of an animal or take on certain characteristics of an animal. The most well-known example is a warrior who takes on the strength and stamina of a bear, called bear shirt or berserker.