What happens when the night sky is no longer safe? This week on LilWeird, we explore the haunting tale of the Bakunawa, the mythical sea dragon from Filipino folklore, known for devouring the moon. Dive into a world where ancient myths meet cosmic wonders, revealing how early Filipinos explained lunar eclipses and their connection to the cycles of nature and time.
From the Bakunawa’s shimmering, starlit scales to the seven moons it consumed, we’ll uncover the origins of this epic legend and its surprising connections to cultures across the globe. You’ll learn why communities gathered to beat drums and shout into the night during lunar eclipses—and how this powerful story continues to inspire awe today.

A Note to Our Listeners:

This episode delves into Filipino mythology and the cultural importance of these stories. Interpretations may vary across regions, and while we strive to present them respectfully, we welcome your insights or corrections to keep the conversation going. Additionally, this content is for entertainment and educational purposes and is not intended as a scholarly resource. It’s all about celebrating and exploring the beauty of these myths.
Whether you’re a lover of myths, curious about cultural heritage, or fascinated by the mysteries of the cosmos, this episode will leave you enchanted by the beauty and depth of Filipino folklore.

Show Notes:

In This Episode, We’ll Explore:

• The origin story of the Bakunawa and its connection to lunar eclipses and celestial myths.
• How the Bakunawa legend ties to ancient Filipino agricultural practices and the Ilongo lunar calendar.
• Cross-cultural parallels with moon-devouring creatures like Norse wolves, Indian celestial demons, and Chinese dragons.

Other fascinating Philippine mythical beings that echo similar cosmic themes, including:

• Tambanakaua: The giant crab from Mandaya and Bukidnon myths, whose anger and attempts to swallow the moon symbolize the tides and lunar eclipses.
• Minokawa: A monstrous bird from Bagobo lore that pursues both the moon and sun, threatening to devour the skies.
• Olimaw: The Ilocano winged serpent or dragon, believed to plunge the world into darkness if left unchecked.
• Laho: A shadowy devourer in Tagalog mythology whose name means  "to vanishing."

Modern Connections:

• The discovery of Iniistius bakunawa, a fish with eclipse-like markings, named after the mythical dragon, and its role in biodiversity conservation.

References Mentioned:

• Creatures of the Midnight by Dr. Maximo Ramos
• The Soul Book by Francisco R. Demetrio and Gilda Cordero
• The Aswang Project: In-depth articles on the Bakunawa, Minokawa, and other mythical creatures
• Stories from Kiniray-a, Ilongo, Mandaya, and Bagobo folklore
• Indian, Norse, and Incan mythology comparisons

Join the Conversation:

What’s your favorite myth about the moon or celestial creatures? Do you have a family story that reminds you of the Bakunawa or similar beings? Let us know! We’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode! 

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References: 

• Creatures of the Midnight by Dr. Maximo Ramos
• The Soul Book by Francisco R. Demetrio and Gilda Cordero
• The Aswang Project: In-depth articles on the Bakunawa, Minokawa, and other mythical creatures
• Stories from Kiniray-a, Ilongo, Mandaya, and Bagobo folklore
• Indian, Norse, and Incan mythology comparisons

Credits:
Closing Music: 'Dystopia' by Neutrin05