Tradition: Solomon Islands Mythology
Alternative Names: Pig-Who-Grunts, Demon Pig of Umaroa
Category: Pig
The Myth
Boongurunguru, meaning “pig-who-grunts,” is a terrifying supernatural boar from the mythology of the Solomon Islands. It is associated with Umaroa, the leader of the Muara clan who saved his people from the great flood known as Ruarua. According to the legend, the flood submerged all the islands, even the high hills of San Cristoval, and those who drowned became stone pillars at Mwata. Umaroa survived by taking his people, a sacred stone, and pairs of every animal aboard a great canoe. After the waters receded, he landed at Waimarai in the Arosi district and offered a sacrifice of gratitude. An adaro descended from a rainbow and guided the survivors to their new home. Umaroa was eventually buried there, with his sacred stone placed over his grave, making the surrounding area a place of powerful magic.
Boongurunguru is described as an enormous wild boar with ‘ama’ama ferns growing from its flattened head and a buzzing nest of hornets beneath its chin. It leads a herd of supernatural boars through the forest, goring and trampling anyone who crosses their path. The appearance of even one Boongurunguru foretells death, while a herd entering a village means that everyone there will perish. As the animals approach a settlement, they gradually shrink until they can enter at the size of mice, but their deadly nature remains unchanged.
The demon’s presence is also associated with venomous snakes. Anyone who hears its grunting and remarks that there must be pigs nearby is immediately surrounded by hundreds of snakes, appearing from every direction and even falling from the air. This violent response reflects the creature’s peculiar pride: Boongurunguru objects to being called a pig. The area around Umaroa’s burial place is governed by strict supernatural rules, including the need to make offerings before crossing a river beneath a rainbow and to use the word kunikuni, rather than ari, for ropes to avoid summoning snakes. These traditions portray Boongurunguru as a deadly guardian of a magically charged landscape.
Sources
“Boongurunguru.” A Book of Creatures, March 19, 2015. https://abookofcreatures.com/2015/03/19/boongurunguru/