Tradition / Region: Philippine Mythology
Alternative names: —
Category: Bird
The Myth
The Limokun is the sacred omen bird of the Bagobo people of Mindanao. It is identified as a beautiful green-and-white wood pigeon with red feet and a red beak, and its call is believed to carry messages that foretell fortune or disaster. Before beginning a journey, hunting expedition, or other important undertaking, people listen carefully for the Limokun’s voice to determine whether it is safe to proceed.
If the bird whistles at an unfavorable moment, the journey is abandoned or delayed until another day, preventing the misfortune that would otherwise occur. Some traditions also interpret the omen according to the direction from which the bird calls or flies, while others say travelers should look around for a sign in their surroundings. If the Limokun’s warning is ignored, disaster is expected to follow.
Because of its sacred status, the Limokun is known as the king of birds. Young men who have never slain an enemy are forbidden to eat its flesh, for doing so is believed to cause their skin to turn yellow, their bodies to waste away, and ultimately bring death. Only warriors who have earned distinction in battle may eat the bird without fear, making it a privilege reserved for the renowned rather than an ordinary source of food.
The Limokun also possesses healing associations. When a person suffers from fever and chills caused by a supernatural river spirit, one traditional remedy is to burn the abandoned nest of a Limokun and allow the patient to inhale the smoke. Thus, the bird is revered not only as a bearer of omens but also as a creature whose remains can help drive away illness.
Sources
Benedict, L. E. W. (1916). A study of Bagobo ceremonial, magic and myth. [s.n.].