Tradition: Ossetian Mythology, Russian Mythology
Alternative Names: Mytyl
Category: Insect
The Myth
Mytyl is an unattractive and lazy patron spirit in Ossetian mythology who protects small reptiles and insects. Although these creatures are tiny and often overlooked, Mytyl is responsible for their welfare and serves as their appointed guardian.
According to the legend, when the Almighty assigned protective guardians to the creatures of the world, he forgot about the small reptiles and insects. Left without protection, thousands of them perished. Fearing that their kind would disappear entirely, the surviving creatures gathered together and sent representatives to complain to the Almighty: a mosquito, a butterfly, and a locust.
The Almighty listened to their plea and appointed Mytyl as their patron spirit. Despite his unattractive appearance and lazy nature, Mytyl became the guardian of the small creatures that had previously been neglected. His appointment ensured that even the smallest forms of life had a protector within the divine order.
Sources
“Mytyl.” New Bestiary (Bestiary.us). https://www.bestiary.us/Mytyl