Tradition / Region: Philippines Mythology
Alternate Names: Alans
Category: Forest dweller, Bird
The Myth
Among the Tingyan people of northwestern Luzon, the Alans are known as wild, winged female spirits who belong to a lower order of supernatural beings. They dwell deep within forests, and at times near rivers, in places seldom visited by humans.
In appearance, the Alans resemble women, but their features are disturbing. Their faces are said to be rough and deeply wrinkled, resembling the hide of a carabao buffalo. They possess wings and are able to fly. Their fingers are inverted, and their toes point backward, emerging from their heels rather than their feet, making them frightening to behold.
The Alans are believed to live in houses much like those of humans, though far more splendid and richly furnished. These dwellings are hidden within the dark forest. At night or when unseen, the Alans are said to hang upside down from tree branches, like bats.
Despite their terrifying appearance, the Alans are credited with a nurturing role. It is believed that when they find drops of menstrual blood, a placenta, or the remains of a miscarriage, they are able to raise a child from it. These children are raised secretly, without the knowledge of their human parents. Once grown, the Alans assist the children throughout their lives, offering help and protection.
Thus, the Alans are remembered not only as fearsome forest spirits, but also as mysterious foster mothers, moving between danger and care, concealment and guardianship.
Gallery
Sources
Bestiary.us contributors. (n.d.). Eterari. In Bestiary.us, from https://www.bestiary.us/eterari/
Interpretive Lenses
Religious Readings
- Christian Ascetic Deep Dive
Philosophical Readings
- Nietzschean Deep Dive
Psychological Readings
- Jungian Deep Dive
Esoteric Deep Dive
- Hermetic Deep Dive
Political / Social Readings
- Marxist Deep Dive
Other
- How to Invite The Alan