fl& v lNew Delhi] bV J; DICTIONARY' SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY BIREN BONNERJEA, D.Litt. (Paris) AUTHOR OF “ ETHNOLOGIE DU BENGALE.” ETC. FOLK PRESS LIMITED RANELAGH ROAD, LONDON, S.W.i *019 CENTRAL ARCH ^GLOGlGAfc LIBRARY, Nt W '■ce. No. ... £¥l/£h - — Printed in Great Britain by -Burleigh Ltd., at The Burleigh Press, Bristol . ... \r J ' NEPOTIS IN JIT ROY AMANTISSIMI MEI MEMORIAM D.D. “ r vu>Ol creavrov.” " Know thyself.” — Oracle. PREFACE Owing to the great volume of existing literature on the subject, it may seem an unnecessary waste of time and energy to offer the following work to the public ; a few words of explanation, therefore, may not be out of place here. A number of years ago, when I was making a comparative study of mythology and folklore I began to collect notes, which gradually grew to such an extent that I felt myself justified in curtailing the mass of material and rearranging the whole in the form of a short dictionary. It would have been an easy task to enlarge this book to at least four times its present size, but I purposely restricted myself to what, in my opinion, was absolutely essential and at the same time most trustworthy. As the book is primarily intended as a reliable guide for serious students of mythology and folklore, I have given under every heading the country or countries where the superstition is prevalent and the authorities with the pages of the works where it is to be found ; wherever no localities are given, it is to be understood as pertaining to Great Britain, unless the book referred to deals with one particular country or province. I have deviated from the course mentioned above when either the subject is too well known, or when the superstitions were collected by myself and no printed work on the subject was available. To further facilitate references, I have given at the end of the lexico- graphical part, a complete bibliography of the works chiefly made use of in the compilation of this book. I have included only those British, French, German, Bohemian and Indian superstitions which I could actually verify on the spot ; owing however to my ignorance of the Czech language, I was forced to avail myself of the kind services of a friend who helped me in my task. A complete understanding of the gradual development of the human mind can be arrived at only by means of a study of the superstitions of the various nations. It is a well-known fact, that the more advanced a nation is, the less superstitious are the people. The moment anything can be logically answered, superstition comes to an end ; but as long as we cannot under- stand the causes and effects, we are groping in the dark, and 6 PREFACE our imagination is given full play. It is also a well-known fact that advancement influences our imagination to a very great extent. There are several very important factors in the making of superstitions, the foremost of which is our environment. We can dream our day-dreams amidst green fields with the birds singing above us, or beside the rippling stream under the clear moonlit sky, but it would be difficult, if not impossible, to indulge ourselves in those same dreams amidst the noise and bustle of a busy city life, or while rushing through the Continent of Europe in the wagon-lit of the Xord Express. Every man is born primitive, but the conditions of his living tend to form his ideas. A villager living his primitive semi- savage life is naturally more prone to be imaginative than his town-bred cousin ; hence imagination is to be found more in villages than in towns, more amongst savages than among civilized races — and in Imagination is the seed of Super- stition. Imagination combined with Ignorance is Super- stition full-born. Superstition may be defined subjectively as the disposition or tendency to ascribe phenomena which admit of natural explanation to occult or supernatural causes ; or objectively, it is any system of religious belief or practice which manifests such a tendency. Superstition is excessive belief or credulity ; it arises from the encroachment of faith on the rights of reason and knowledge, and is applied in popular usage to various forms of polytheism. It is an unreasonable belief in things or phenomena which, although owing their origin to perfectly natural and logical causes, are attributed to some supernatural force or power, or again, the natural results of these are dis- torted by popular imagination into something fantastic. Thus for example, in the Middle Ages, when science was in its infancy, the violent wind was supposed to have been caused by Wodan and his spectral followers, riders and hounds in full chase, rushing through the woods, or athwart the sky, in quest of some poor human soul ; the French have their prototype ' in the Grand Veneur riding in the forests of Fontainebleau, and we in our legend of Herne the Hunter haunting the ancient oak tree in Windsor Forest. “ Superstition would seem to be simply cowardice in regard to the supernatural. The super- stitious man is one who will wash his hands at a fountain, sprinkle himself at a temple font, put a bit of laurel-leaf into his mouth, and so go about for the day. If a weasel run across his path, he will not pursue his walk until someone else has traversed the road, or until he has thrown three stones across it. When he sees a serpent in his house, if it be the red snake, he will invoke Sabazius ; if the sacred snake, he will straightaway PREFACE 7 place a shrine on the spot. He will pour oil from his flask on the smooth stones at the cross-roads as he goes by, and will fall on his knees and worship them, before he departs. If a mouse gnaws through a meal-bag, he will go to the ex- pounder of the sacred law and ask what is to be done. . , . He will not tread upon a tombstone, or come near a dead body or a woman defiled by childbirth, saying that it is expedient for him not to be polluted. Also on the fourth and seventh days of each month he will order his servants to mull wine, and will go out and buy myrtle wreaths, frankin- cense, convolvuluses/'* Every natural thing our forefathers could not understand was attributed, as it is attributed to-day by the savage races, to some good or evil spirits ; diseases were caused by malicious demons, ill-disposed fairies or malignant witches ; ship- wrecks were the direct acts of Nixes or Water-demons; ansemia was caused by those horrible monsters, vampires, sucking the patient's blood ; the eclipse of the sun and the moon was the result of their being devoured by some blood- thirsty and revengeful demons, such as Rahu or Ketu ; W erewolves, or men who by means of black arts transformed themselves into beasts of prey, devastated the land. An eminent author relates how, during an eclipse, he heard a French peasant exclaim with deep anguish: “Mon Dieu! Qu'ette est souffrante ! ” and as an explanation pointed to the almost totally obscured moon. The Rev. Mr. S. Baring Gould found it impossible to find anyone to guide him through a certain wood in France, for fear of the “ Loup-garou.” As an example of what superstitions lead to we need only mention the awful days of the Hexenverfolgungen and Hexenprozessen when hundreds, nay even thousands, of innocent human beings were burnt at the stake on the mere supposition of being witches : as witness whereof the trial and condemnation of the famous Lancashire Witches. With the advancement of culture and civilization, these superstitions have happily vanished; but it would be safe to assert that no matter how advanced the people are, there is not one nation in the world which is entirely free from superstitions of every kind. We, living in civilized Europe, cannot understand the mentality of the Zulus in employing “ witch-doctors ” to “ smell out ” culprits, or of the Hindus in prostrating themselves before a hideous idol and praying for riches or the recovery of stolen goods, yet very few of us would willingly walk under a ladder, or make up a party of thirteen at the dinner table. The origin of most of * Theophrastus : The Characters , translated by R. C. Jebb (1870} xxvii. BIREN BONNERJEA. March. PREFACE our modem superstitions is lost in antiquity. Dr. Adolf Leh- mann in his admirable book, Aberglauhc mid Zauhcrei has discussed this question of the evolution of superstitions at great length ; it is therefore, unnecessary for me to go into the matter any further, or to give any explanation as to their origin. I have contented myself with a simple list of these superstitions with their different variations in different countries as they exist at the present day. With regard to Oriental words and names, I have not restricted myself to any definite system of transcription, and have been guided only by the pronunciation. The various superstitions connected with folk-medicine have been sparingly dealt with, as my own Ethnologie du Bengale, Black, Folk Medicine and Hovorka and Kronfeld, Vergleichende Volks- medizin give sufficient information. It remains for me now to acknowledge my indebtedness particularly to the following works, from which I have freely borrowed : Sir James G. Frazer, The Golden Bough ; E. Tylor, Primitive Culture ; Dr. Brewer, Reader’s Handbook ; J. Dow- son, Hindu Classical Dictionary ; Dr. A. Wuttke, Der deutsche Volksaberglaube der Gegenwart ; L. Strackerjan, Aberglauben und Sagen aus dem Herzogtum Oldenburg ; Dr. A. Lehmann, Aberglaube und Zauberei ; Fanny D. Bergen, Current Super- stitions, Berenger-Feraud, Superstitions et survivances eiudiees au point de vue de leur origine et de leur transformations ; and Brand, Observations on the Popular Antiquities of Great Britain. Since completing my MS. it has been my good fortune to come across Lean’s Collectanea by Mr. V. S. Lean ; unfortunately, therefore, I could not make as much use of this vast treasure- house of research and information relating to folklore as I would have liked. I must also not forget to tender my thanks to the various friends at home and abroad who have helped me with valuable contributions and advice. Last, but not least, my best thanks are due to my wife for her untiring help in the arduous task of collecting, selecting and arranging the material. Should this book be of some little service to serious students whose criticism alone I value, I shall be amply rewarded for the amount of time and labour I have spent thereon. It has been a labour of love for me, and incomplete though it may be, I send it forth to the world to earn as much appreciation for itself as it is worth. PRONUNCIATION a in Indian words as a in “ fall.” a in foreign words as a in " father.” c in Slav words as ts. c in Slav words as ch in “ church.” ch in French words as sh. ch in German words before e, i as sh ; before other vowels or consonants as ch in Scotch : “ loch.” ch in Greek words as k. e in foreign words as e in “ met ” or a in “ mate.” gh in Arabic words as the Modern Greek y or the North German g. g in German words as g in “ garden.” h in Semitic words as a strongly aspirated h. I in foreign words as ee in “ meet.” 3 in foreign words as j in “ judge.” j in Teutonic words as y. kh in Semitic words as ch in Scotch “ loch ” 1 in Slav words between two consonants is pronounced as U. q in Semitic words as a guttural k. r in foreign words is always distinctly pronounced. r in Slav words between two consonants is pronounced as ri. s in foreign words as ss in “ hiss.” s in German words at the beginning of a syllable as z. s in French words between two vowels as z. s in Slav words as sh in “ shy.” sch in Teutonic words as sh. st in German words as sht. t in foreign words has usually a soft sound as in French or Italian. u in foreign words as 00 in “ fool ” or u in “ full.” v in Teutonic words as f. w in Teutonic words as v. z in Teutonic words as ts. z in Slav words as the French j or as s in " pleasure.” ai in Indian words as a-i. au in Indian words as a-u. au in German words as ou in “ house.” au in German words as oy in “ boy.” ei in German words as y in my." 9 B : d, n, s, s. t, t, z, z Latin equivalents. A Aalu : This was the name by which the Egyptian; Elysium was designated. Aasgaardsreia : “ Aasgard’s Chase ” ; a frequent appellation of the Wild Hunt (q.v.) of Northern mythology. Abaris : Gr. Myth. It was Abaris to whom Apollo (q.v.) gave a golden arrow on which to ride through the air. Abhac : It is the Irish cognate of an Afanc (q.v.). Abhaswaras : Hindu Myth. A class of deities, sixty-four in number, of whose nature little is known. (Dowson, H.C.D.) Abraxas : A stone with the word Abraxas engraved on it is said to be a famous talisman. The word symbolizes the 365 intelligences between deity and man. Acacia : Acacia-wood was held in ancient times to be the “ Wood of Life.” According to Kercher, it was sacred to the sun god of Egypt. Academus : Gr. Myth. A hero of Attica. He told Castor and Pollux where Theseus had hidden Helen. He is sometimes identified with Cadmus (q.v.). Acca Laruntia : According to a legend, she was the wife of Faustulius. She saved Remus and Romulus exposed on a hill and brought them up. These children afterwards founded the city of Rome. Accidental upsetting of a cup : In Japan if a cup of medicine destined for a sick person be accidentally upset, it is a sure sign of his speedy recovery. (Griffis, M.E., p. 467.) Acco : Gr. Myth. A class of beings belonging to the same species as Lamia (q.v.). Acephali : A fabulous race of people, reported by ancient writers to have had no heads, cf. Blemmyce, A-Siras. Achseus : Gr. Myth. Brother of Ion, nephew of Helen, ancestor of the Achaeans. Achelous : Gr. Myth. God of the river bearing this name, and father of the Sirens (q.v.). Acheri : Indian Folklore. They are the ghosts of little girls, who live on the tops of mountains, but descend at night to hold their revels in more convenient places (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 263 ; Traill, Asiatic Researches, XVI, pp. 137 seq. ; N.I.N.Q., Vol. II, p. 27; Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 99). . A DICTIONARY of iron : The “River of «« h — " 1 .?S fwfldrfcon ne lache point sa P™.-"^ met, Gr. Myth. ^»<"SSrS Grecian hero of the Iliad. wounded by a poisoned to to KTie wi dipped in arrow shot by rans. became mvulner- the river Styx by hl* was bis heel. He was brought able ; his only vulnera P ^ disguised as a woman „p hy the cen f ££fmede Lt was discovered The lance of Achilles cured all wounds that The two horses belonging to Achilles — - of human speech, cf. Anon, Al- rBomk, Bahamas ^ h herdiovedby, he Galatea The monster ^ which bears the same name and lived with the by Ulysses. Z ■were caused by it Achilles’ Horses possessed the power A, t T V A oe Acis : Sicilian Myth. (q.v.). -T- , - and crushed him with was changed into a river ■rpttwfr KM p. s. ) flows at the foot of Mt. Etna (Da. Brewer, KM»V • 5 j S™eet-fl“Z, k. o{ Arg0S; father of Danaiis. He ACn was "accidentally killed by a disc thrown by Perseus his Actem^Gn Myth. A hunter who surprised Diana in her bath, the goddess was enraged and changed him mto i V. _ * _ n,:~ Pew wqq Hwmired bv his own hounds* SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 13 Aderyn y Corph : In Welsh folk-lore it is a kind of super- natural bird which appears as a foreteller of death. Vide Death Warnings, etc. Adhyatman : Hind. Myth. The supreme spirit ; the soul of the universe (Dow SON, H.C.D., p. 2). Admete : Gr. Myth. Founder and king of Pheres in Thessaly, and one of the Argonauts. He was husband of Alceste (q.v.) whom he offered as a sacrifice in order to prolong his own life. Apollo guarded his troops. Adolf : He was bishop of Cologne ; he is popularly believed to have been devoured^ either by mice or by rats in a.d. 1112. cf. Hatto, Freiherr von Guttingen, Widerolf, Graaf. Adona : A seraph who was the first of the twelve martyrs. Adona was the tutelar spirit of James. Adon-Ai : He was the spirit of love and beauty. Adonis : Class. Myth. A beautiful youth beloved by Aphrodite. He was bom of a myrrh tree. In the flush of his youth, he was slain by a wild boar. After his death, he was changed into an anemone by Venus. Adultery : Many of the indigenous tribes of Sarawak are firmly persuaded that were their wives to commit adultery while their husbands are searching for camphor in the jungle, the camphor obtained by the men would evaporate (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 29). Among the inhabitants of the hills near Rajmahal, Bengal, it is believed that adultery undetected and un- expiated will cause epidemics in the villages. (Frazer, . Psyche’s Task, 2nd Ed., p. 45). Aedon : Gr. Myth. A queen of Thebes who killed her own son by mistake. Zeus relieved her grief by turning her into a nightingale. Asgeon : Gr. Myth. A huge monster with one hundred arms and fifty heads who, with his brothers Cothus and Gyges, conquered the Titans by hurling at them three hundred rocks at once. ABgeus : Gr. Myth. The father of Theseus, who, in grief at the supposed loss of his son, threw himself into the sea, which was named Algean Sea after him. AEgina : Gr. Myth. A daughter of the river-god Asopus. Zeus in the form of an eagle carried her off to an island which bears her name. AEgir : In old Norse mythology this was the name of a water- demon. Vide Ran. ■ ^ v U A DICTIONARY OF 14 AEgisthus : Gr. Myth. Son of Thyestus and Palopea. He killed Agamemnon, after having seduced his wife Clytemnestra. JE gle : Gr. Myth. One of the Hesperides. Aigyptus : Gr. Myth. A son of Balus, twin brother of Danaiis and king of Libya, who conquered and gave his name to Egypt. Aello : Gr. Myth. One of the Harpies (q.v.). AEolus : Class. Myth. The happy ruler of the iEolian Isles, who had dominion over the winds. Aesculapius : Rom. Myth. The god of medicine. AEsir : Teut. Myth. The chief gods of the Teutonic pantheon. With the AEsir were associated the Asynjur or goddesses, of whom there were eighteen. Aesma: In Persian mythology this is a dearly defined, outrageous and assaulting demon, whose name has been thought to be reflected as Asmodaeus in the Book of Tobit. (D.R.E., Vol. IV, p. 620.) AEthra : Gr. Myth. Mother of Theseus. Afanc : In Wales an Afanc is regarded as a kind ofl crocodile, but it was originally, in the opinion of Sir John Rh£s, a kind of monster in human form, as is suggested by the Irish cognate Abhac. ( D.R.E. , Vol. IV, p. 576.) Afrit : In Arabic demonology Afrit is the chief of the demons. The word in Arabic simply means a “ demon.” Afterbirth : If dogs eat of the afterbirth of mares, they will go mad. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 49 ; see Pioss, Das Weib, Vol. II. p. 221 et seq.). Agamemnon : Son of Atreus, brother of Menelaus, husband of Clytemnestra by whom he was slain with the help of iEgisthus. Agate : Agate quenches thirst, if kept in the mouth ; it also has the power of allaying fever. It is supposed to render the wearer invisible ; it turns the swords of foes against themselves. The agate is the emblem of health and long life and is dedicated to June. In the Zodiac it stands for Scorpio, cf. Alectoria. Agatha, St. : She protects from fire (q.v.). Agdistis : Gr. Myth. The Great Mother was so called at her reputedly original shrine at Pessinus from the rock Agdus on Mt. Dindimus. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Age : One should never tell his age to others, lest he die. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 49.) To ascertain a girl’s age, pull a hair from her head, tie a ring to it and hang this inside a tumbler or a goblet in such a manner that it does not touch the sides of the glass ; the ring will begin to oscillate and will strike the sides as many times as the number of years the girl’s exact age is. (Parts of Gt. Britain). Aghasura : Hind. Myth. An Asura (q.v.) who was Kansa’s general. He assumed the form of a vast serpent, and Krishna's companions, the cowherds, entered its mouth, mistaking it for a mountain cavern ; Krishna rescued them. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 6). Aglaia : Class. Myth. One of the three Graces (q.v.) Agni : “ Fire.” One of the most ancient and sacred objects of Hindu worship. It appears in three phases — in heaven as the sun, in mid-air as lightning and on earth as ordinary fire. (Dowson, H.C.D , p. 6.) (ii) The most important of the Vedic gods ; originally the god of the altar fire, he yet represents a trinity in which to earthly fire are joined the lightning and the sun. He is the mediator between gods and men. He is repre- sented as red and with two faces. Ague : The two patron saints for this disease are : St. Pemel and St. Petronella. Vide Iliad, Spider. (Various remedies are given in Lean’s Collectanea, Vol. II, pt. ii, pp. 483 et seq.) • Ahasverus : A legendary personage better known by the name of the Wandering Jew (q.v.). Ahi : Hindu Myth. A serpent. A name of Vritra, the Vedic demon of drought (Dowson, H.C.D. , p. 9). Ahlmakoh ; In the Vancouver Islands this is a kind of demoniac wood-spirit. He plays an important part in , the ritual as an amulet-dispenser. His nasal mucus is valued as an amulet for invulnerability. Ahnfrau : In German superstition she is an ancestress of some noble family, whose spirit appears to give warning of an approaching disaster or death, cf. White Lady, Melusine, Bertha, Death Warnings. Ahriman : In Zoroastrianism he is the spirit of evil. He stands at the head of the host of evil spirits - he is the prince of darkness personified and is malevolent in the extreme. He was the Evil Principle or Being of the ancient Persians. l6 A DICTIONARY OF Ahura-Mazdas : Vide Ormazd. Airavat : Hind. Myth. A fine elephant. An elephant pro- duced at the churning of the ocean and appropriated by the god Indra (q.v.). Airi • Indian Folklore. The ghost of someone who was killed in hunting. “ Those who see Airi face to face are burnt up by the flash of his eye, or are tom to pieces by his dogs, or have their livers extracted and eaten by the fairies who accompany him.” (Crooke P.R. J., Vol. I., p. 262 , Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 100). cf. Wild Huntsman. Aiasava : Hindu Myth. The primitive bow of Siva (q.v.), Swhich fell from heaven at the birth of Prithu. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 10.) Ajax : Gr. Myth. The names of two heroes of the Trojan war, which has remained synonymous with impetuous warriors. Akhkhazu : “ The Seizer.” In Babylonian superstition it was an evil spirit, who had the power of securing his victim under his control, cf. Labasu. Akratos : Gr. Myth. It was the potent spirit of the unmixed wine. Akupara : Hind. Myth. The tortoise or turtle on which the earth rests. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 10.) Vide Earthquake . Akuti : Hindu Myth. The daughter of Manu, who was given to the patriarch Ruchi. She bore twins, Yajna and Dakshina, who became husband and wife and had twelve sons, the deities called Yamas (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 10). Aladin’s Wonderful Lamp : ’Ala-ud-Din (Aladin), the son of a poor tailor, obtains a certain lamp. Every time this lamp is rubbed, a jinn (q.v.) appears and executes all his commands. Aladin becomes a rich man, but the lamp is afterwards obtained by a trick by a magician. After a series of adventures, Aladm succeeds in killing the magician and recovering his lamp. (Burton, Alij laila wa laila.) Alasnam’s Mirror : This mirror remained unsullied when it reflected a chaste and pure-minded woman, but became dim when the woman reflected on it was faithless, wanton and light, cf. Florimel’s Girdle , etc. Al-A’war : A son of Iblis, a jinn (q.v.), who encourages debauchery. (Jew. Enc. Vol. IV, p. 521.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Albatross : In sailors’ superstition, this bird is supposed to cause the wind to blow; if this bird be killed, some terrible disaster will happen to the ship. (Bassett, p. 128.) “ And I had done a hellish thing, And it would work ’em woe : For all averred I had killed the bird That made the breeze to blow. Ah wretch ! said they, the bird to slay. That made the breeze to blow.” Coleridge : The Ancient Manner, II, 3. Vide Petrel. A1 Borak : This is the name of the animal which conveyed Mahomet to the seventh heaven. He not only spoke good Arabic, but had also a human face. He was brought by Gabriel. His other peculiarities were : he had the cheeks of a horse and the wings of an eagle, cf. Balaam’s Ass, Anon, Achilles' Horses. Alceste : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Pellias and wife of Admete (q.v.). After her death Hercules entered the infernal regions to bring her back to earth again. Alceus : Gr. Myth. Son of Perseus, grandfather of Hercules. Alctde : Gr. Myth. Grandson of Alceus. Surname of Hercules and his descendants. \ . Alcmseon : Gr. Myth. A son of Amphiraiis, leader of the Epigoni against Thebes. He was driven mad by the Erinyes for killing his mother Eriphyle (q.v.). He was slain by a son of Phegeus. Alcmene : Gr. Myth. The wife of Amphitryon and mother of Herakles (Hercules) by Zeus. Alcyon : A fabulous bird which was supposed to build its nest on the calm waters of the sea. It was regarded as a bird of good omen. (Petit Larousse illustre, p. 26.) Alcyone: Gr. Myth. Daughter of Eolus, wife of the King of Tr'achis. She and her husband were changed into alcyons. Alectoria : It is a stone extracted from a capon. It is said to render the wearer invisible, to allay thirst, to antidote enchantment and to ensure love. cf. Agate. Alecto : Gr. Myth. One of the three Erinnys or Furies. Alectryon : Gr. Myth. A youth sent by Mars to guard against surprise. He fell asleep, and Apollo surprised Mars and Venus in each other’s arms. Mars, in anger, changed Alectryon into a cock. , . l8 A DICTIONARY OF „ A entries of bervl found in Siberia ; it shows Ale^fuWtnCerial co7ours-red and geen-and is named from the Emperor Alexander of Russia. Allatu : In Babylonian mythology this is the name o t e •wife of Nergal (q.v.). Vide Aralu. . _ _ a * n-np of the four branches of the river Ganges, Siva received upon his head. (DowsON, li.t.L)., p. 11.) Aipe : In Germany the Mara (q.v.) is usually designated by AlphitT: In Classical mythology these were beings which belonged to the same class as the Lamia (q.v.). A1 Raaim : In the Oor'an (Sura xviii) this is a name connected with the legend of the Seven Sleepers ; it usually refers to their dog, now in Paradise and m charge of letters and correspondence. . ai „„„ . Tt is a kind of Kobold who brings gold through A1 the ‘chimneys. (East Friesland, Oldenburg, Wuttke, p, 2^0). Alrinach : In Eastern mythology it is the demon who causes shipwrecks and presides over storms and earthquakes. When visible, it is always in the form and dress of a woman (Bassett, p. 69). cf. Nixe, Lorelei, Siren, Jal Pari, Bugarik. Al Sirat : An imaginary bridge between the earth and the Mahometan paradise ; it is not so wide as a spider s web. Those laden with sin fall over into the abyss below, cf. Bifrost. Alsvid : Vide Arvak. Altar : To dream that you are kneeling at an altar is a bad omen. . . . Alte : “ Old one” ; it is the name of a Teutonic field-spint in human form. Alu : In Babylonian superstition this was a demon. The word signifies “ the strong one.” Alukah : The blood-sucker or vampire (q.v.) of Jewish super- stition whose two daughters continually cry : Give, give.” It is none other than the Ghoul (q.v.) of the Arabs. (Wellhatjsen, Vol. Ill, pp. 135-7)- Alwantin : In the Deccan it is the spirit of a pregnant woman one dying on the day of childbirth or within the puerperal pollution. (Jackson, F.L.N., Vol. II, p. 55.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Amalthea : Class. Myth. The goat which nourished Jupiter. One of her horns became the horn of abundance. Amara-Kantaka : " Peak of the Immortals ” ; it is a place of pilgrimage in the table-land east of the Vindhvas (Eowsqn, H.C.D., p. ii.) ^ ' Amarum : Among the Quichas of Equador this is one of the most formidable demons known ; it is of the form of a huge water-boa. It is the father of witchcraft, and the souls of sorcerers are said to take up their abode in these monsters. (Karsten, Indian Tribes of Equador, p. 70.) Amatongo : A Zulu generic name for the ghost-folk (Callaway ; Haggard, Nada the Lily, pp. 60, 99, 113, 217, etc.) Amazons : Gr. Myth. A race of female warriors, generally supposed to have inhabited the coasts of the river Ther- medon, in Cappadocia, with whom the Greeks repeatedly warred. They were said to expose their male children and to burn (or cut off) their right breasts. The most famous queens of the Amazons were : Antiope who attacked Theseus and was vanquished by him ; Fenthesilea who was killed by Achilles ; Thomyris who caused the death of Cyrus ; and Thalestris who encountered Alexander. Amber : It is said to be a concretion of birds’ tears. The birds which wept amber were the sisters of Meleager, called Meleagrides, who never ceased weeping for their brother’s death. Amber is a cure for sore throats and all glandular swellings. ' Ambergris : It is said to be the petrification of some interior part of the whale. (Bassett, p. 240, quoting O’Reilly.) Ambondrombe : The Hovas of Madasgasear believe that the ghosts of men and beasts live on this great mountain, and occasionally walk among the tombs and execution places (q.v.) of criminals. Amchi-malghen : It is the guardian-nymph of the Chilians, (Molina, Chili, Vol. II, p. 86.) Amenti : Egypt. Myth. The region of the dead ; it is the subterranean realm, whither the sun descends. The soul, entering Amenti was conducted by Anubis (q.v.), was- judged by the forty-two judges, and was then passed on to Aalu ”(or Elysium), or tortured according to its due. It corresponded to the Greek Hades or the Hebrew Sheol. 20 A DICTIONARY OF * ^ 4. . Thp ame.th.vst is an emblem of humility and An“sog!eW It UdSed to January and Van us. In the Zodiac" it stands for Sagittarius; m metalling}, for copper • in Christian Art it is given to St Matthew, and in the ’Roman Catholic Church it is set m the pastoral “rof the bishops ; whence it is caUed Prelate s gem. Amethyst banishes a desire for drink and promotes chastity. The Greeks thought that it counteracted the effects of wine. _ Amon : Egypt. Myth. Originally a local deity, and later one of the chief deities of the Egyptian pantheon ; subsequently, he was called by the name of Amon-ka (q.v.). Amnn.Ra • Eevpt. Myth. He was called "the father of the gods the fashioner of men, the creator of cattle, the lord bf all being, etc.” He is represented as a man wearing on his head a disc, surmounted by two tall ostrich plumes. His wife was Mut, and Chunsu was his son. The rums of Carnac are the remains of his great Theban temple. Amphiaraus : Gr. Myth. A hero and seer of Argos, who took part, among others, in the Expedition of the Seven against Thebes. He was worshipped as a god at Orpus. Amphion : Gr. Myth. Son of. Zeus and Antiope ; twin of Zethus, and husband of Niobe. Amphitrite : Class. Myth. One of the Nereids (q.v.); wife of Poseidon (q.v.). Amphitryon : Class. Myth. Zeus takes the form of Amphi- tryon and visits Alcmene, his wife, entertains her with a feast and becomes the father of Hercules. Amset : Egypt. Myth. He was the man-headed genius of Amenti. He was associated with the North. Amulets: In India all kinds of diseases are superstitiously believed to be cured by wearing different kinds of amulets. (See advertisements in the daily, weekly or monthly papers of Calcutta, Bombay, etc.) Anadydmene : Gr. Myth. An epithet of Aphrodite, alluding to the legend of her rising out of the sea at birth. Anaemia: It is believed to be caused by vampires (q.v.) sucking the blood of the living. (Foster, Observations during a Voyage round the World, p. 543 1 Enc. Brit., Vol. VITI, p. 6; Skeat, Malay Magic, pp. 326 et seq.; Rhys, Celtic Folklore, p. 673; Ennemoser, History of Magic, Vol. IT, pp. 185, 480 ; Krauss in Mitteil. d. anthrop. Gesell. zu Wien, Vol. XVIII. p. 183). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Anafieias ; in .Lithuanian legend it was a high, steep moun- tain, up which all souls of the dead had to clamber ; claws of bears and lynxes were therefore burnt with the bodies to help the deceased in this arduous task. Anaka-dundubhi : “ Drums ” ; a name of Vasu-deva who was so called, because the drums of heaven resounded at his birth. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 14.) Ananga : “ The bodyless ” ; it is a name of Kama, god of love. Ananta : “ The infinite ” ; it is a name of the serpent Sesha. (Dowson, H.C.D.) Anat ; Vide Anium. Anchor : If you dream of an anchor, you will, if a man, be a sailor, or if a woman, marry one. Andhaka : A demon, son of Kasyapa and Diti, with a thousand arms and heads, two thousand eyes and feet ; he was called Andhaka, because he walked like a blind man, although he could see very well. (Dowson, H.C.D. , p. 15.) Andromache : Wife of Hector. After the fall of Troy, she became a slave of Pyrrhus, son of Achilles. Her name is symbolic of conjugal love. Andromeda : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Cepheus and Cassiopeia. By the decree of Zeus, she was chained to a cliff, to be devoured by a monster. Perseus returning after slaying Medusa, killed the monster and married her. When Phineus, her betrothed, interfered, Perseus changed him into a stone by means of the Gorgon’s head. Vide Medusa. Angdistis : Vide Agdistis. Angel : Angels in popular belief are the supernatural messen- gers of God. Children who like to talk of angels, or are unusually clever, will not live long. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 35.) To dream of seeing an angel is good, to dream of being one yourself is better, but if you dream you are speaking to one or calling on one, it is of evil significance. Angerboda ; Norse Myth. She was a giantess who, by Loki, was the mother of the wolf Fenrir (q.v.), the Midgard Serpent (q.v.) and Hel (q.v.), goddess of the dead. Angling : To dream of angling presages affliction and trouble. Angus : Celt. Myth. A Gaelic god of love and amorous dalliance. He was son of Dugda, whom he cheated out of his underground palace. His harp was of so sweet a tone that whoever heard must follow ; his kisses became invisible love-whispering birds. 22 A DICTIONARY OF Anilas : Hindu Myth. A class of deities, forty-nine in number, connected with Anila, the wind. (Dowson, Il.C.D., p. 17). Animal : No animal dies near the sea, except at the ebbing of the tide. (Gt. Britain.) Animal under Yoke : Vide Stones. Animisha : “ One who does not wink ” ; a general epithet of all Indian gods. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 17 ) Animism : (As the subject is too vast to be dealt with in a few lines, the reader is referred to Tylor : Primitive Culture.) Anito : The Irayas and Catalangans of Luzon worship the souls of their ancestors under the name of Anitos. These are household deities ; some of them reside in pots, and miniature houses standing near the family dwelling are sacred to them. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. II, p. 463.) Ankle Bones : The ankle bones of a hare are superstitiously believed by the Arabs to be a powerful weapon against Jinns, Ghouls and even Satan himself. (Hastings, Die Bib., Vol. IV, p. 603.) Anne, St. : Vide Riches, Wealth Bestow ers. Annwn : Celt. Myth. The British Hades, represented as a sea-girdled, revolving fortress. Gwyn was the leader of the dead. ‘Anqa : Turkish Folklore. A fabulous bird of enormous size, said to inhabit the Caucasus range (Redhouse, Turkish- English Lexicon, Constantinople, 1890, p. 1325; Kunos, T.F.T.). He whose head touches the shadow of a flying ‘anqa, will wear a crown (Zenker, Dictionnaire turc-arabe-persan, Leipzig, 1876, p. 640.). Ant : When ants are unusually busy, foul weather is at hand (Skeat, Malay Magic, p.535). Ants never sleep. (Emerson, Nature, Vol. II, p. 53.) To have an ants’ nest made near your door portends security and riches (Lean, Vol. II, p. 53). If you dream of ants, you will live in a great town, and be happy, industrious, well-married, and have many children. According to Alexander Ross, the cruel battle between the Venetians and the Insubrians, as also the one between the Liegeois and the Burgundians, in which 30,000 men were slain, was presignihed by combats between two swarms of ants. Vide Worm. 23 SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Anteus : Gr. Myth. A giant, son of Neptune and the Earth, who was killed by Hercules. Vide Bernardo del Carpio. Anthony, St. : Cures erysipelas. Antigone: Gr. Myth. A daughter of CEdipus (q.v.) and Jocosta, typical of faithfulness and heroism in the Greek ideal of womanhood. She was her father’s guide after he had torn out his eyes. Antiope : A Theban princess carried off by Epopeus. She became the mother of Amphion and Zethus. She was maltreated by Dirce, wife of Lycus, and unknowingly took refuge, with her sons, who were ordered by Dirce to tie her to the horns of a wild bull. They, on finding out that she w’as their mother, treated Dirce herself in the aforesaid manner. ff-Ry-Rf:.:. VyV.A i f: : Antum : Babyl. Myth. The consort of Anu. Anu : Egypt. Myth. A mighty king, the first-born of the gods.' (Sayce, p. 4S3.) In Babylonian mythology he is the god of the sky or heavens, and is one of the most ancient deities. His consort was Antum or Anat. Anubis : Egypt. Myth. A jackal-god of the necropolis ; he is usually regarded as a son of Isis and Osiris (q.v.) ; a god of the' dead ; he guards the dead and superintends their embalmment and shares with Thoth (q.v.), the office of the conductor of the dead to the Judgment Hall of Amenti, whither he guides them by the hand and where he weighs their hearts against the Feather of Truth and Right. (Wiedemann, Rel. of Ancient Egyptians, p. 230.) Anukit : Egypt. Mvth. A goddess of Libyan origin, depicted as weanng a feather crown. She was worshipped in the neighbourhood of Philae. Annuit : Babyl. Myth. A goddess, who was later identified with Ishtar. / ■ r: Ethy ; !’• a f bh; h ; r Anunnaki : Babyl. Myth. A group of powerful earth-spirits, genii or demons, who were servants of gods ; on the whole, they were hostile to men. They were closely associated with the Igigi (q.v.). Apaosa : In Persian means “Drought”; hence drought personified. Apepi : Egypt. Myth. The great serpent, who led the onslaught of the demons against the sun, by whom they were duly overcome ; thus symbolizing the struggle of darkness and light. .E.'^ A A DICTIONARY Of Aphrodite : Gr. Myth. The goddess of love and beauty, and of life as expressive of the cosmic power of love. Apis: Egypt. Myth. The sacred bull, which was considered as the highest form of animal life. Apocatequil : In Peruvian legend he was the first son of the mortal who descended on earth. He recalled his mother to life, and made an aperture in the earth with a golden spade, through which the race of the Peruvians emerged and took possession of the land. (Gaskell, p. 54, quoting Non-Class. Myth., p. 12.) Apollo : Gr. Myth. One of the most important of the Olympic gods, especially conspicuous as the god of manly youth and beauty, of poetry and music, and of the wisdom of oracles. Apollyon : One of the various names of the Devil. Apoplexy : Vide Fever. Apparel : If you dream of losing wearing apparel, your character will be injured by another. Apparition : An unnatural appearance of a real being ; a spectre : a phantom. “ The dominant spirit ... is the apparition of a figure on horseback without a head.” — W. Irving, Sketch Book, II. Apple : If an apple tree blossoms in autumn, it is considered to be a sign of an approaching marriage. {Lower Saxony, Wuttke, p. 35.) If the first apple of a young tree be plucked and eaten by a woman who has borne many children, the tree will be sure to bear many apples. ( Bohemia , Grohmann, p. 143; Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 39). Appolina, St. : Vide Toothache. April : Vide Diamond, Sapphire. Apron : In Vogtland a girl does not allow her lover to dry his hands on her apron, for fear this would bring about a quarrel. If a man wipes himself on a girl's apron, he will fall madly in love with her (Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. I, p. 443.) Apsaras : The Apsaras are the celebrated nymphs of Indra’s heaven. They are the daughters of pleasure and of fascinating charms, who lure heroes and sages from their devotions and penances. They are fairy-like beings, beautiful and voluptuous, and number about thirty-five millions. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 20 ; Tylor, Primitive Culture, Vol. II, p. 173 ; Ward, Account of the Writings ... of the Hindoos, Vol. II, p. 151.) cf. Siren, Lorelei, Houri, Peri. 25 SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Arachne : A young Lydian maiden who excelled in the art of embroidery. She was changed into a spider, for having defied Minerva in her arts, Aracho : It is the Mongol name for Rahu (q.v.). Aralu : Rabyl. Myth, The abode of the dead, represented as a vast and gloomy cavern in the midst of the earth, surrounded by seven walls and ruled over by Nergal (q.v.) and his wicked consort, Allatu, and their attendant demons. In this place the dead were supposed to lead an existence with no hope of return to a brighter life. Arch Enemy . \ Qther names for the Devil. Arch Fiend : J Ardat lili : “ Maids of the night." These, in Babylonian superstition, were evil spirits who, like the Lilu (q.v.), plied their trade at night. Ardha-nari : “ Half woman ” ; a form in which Siva is represented as half male and half female, typifying the male and female energies. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 21.) Ares : Gr. Myth. The god of war and, sometimes, of pestil- ence ; son of Zeus and Hera, and lover of Aphrodite. The Romans identified him with Mars. Arethusa : Class. Myth. A wood-nymph of Elis who, when pursued by Alpheus, a river, was changed into a river running under the sea. Argonauts : Gr. Myth. The heroes who went to win the “ Golden Fleece.” They were about fifty in number. Argus : A mythical monster with a hundred eyes ; guardian of lo. Ariadne: Class. Myth. Daughter of Minos. She fell in love with Theseus, who afterwards abandoned her. Ariane : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Minos. She gave Theseus a skein of cotton to guide him back after killing the Minotaur (q.v.) in the labyrinth. Theseus threw this away and fell into the sea. Arianrod : Celt. Myth. A Cymric goddess, wife of Gwydion, mother of Dylan and Lien. Arion : Gr. Myth. The wonderful horse which Hercules gave to Adrastos. It not only spoke good Greek, but both its fore-feet were those of a man. cf. Al Borah, Balaam’s Ass, Achilles’ Horses. Arishta : Hindu Myth. A Daitya (q.v.), son of Bali, who attacked Krishna in the form of a savage bull and was slain by him. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 21.) A DICTIONARY OF 26 Aristseus : Class. Mvth. A son of Apollo and the nymph Cyrene. He was deified as the protector of flocks, shepherds, the vine and the olive ; he was also the instructor in bee-keeping. Arjuna: Hindu Myth. The hero of the great epic Maluibharata. He was one of the five Pandava brothers. Arm : If a person has hairy arms, it is a sign that he will be wealthy. (North Ohio, Bergen, C.S., p. 35.) Arsaphes : Another spelling for Hershef. Artemis : Gr. Myth. An Olympian goddess of various attri- butes. In mythology she is a virgin huntress and goddess of wild nature. She is the same as Diana (q.v.) of the Romans. Artemisia : Leaves of artemisia, tied in a bundle and placed near beds, drive demons away. (China, Williams, M.K., Vol. II, p. 255.) Vide Sweet-flag. Arthur, King : In current English superstition he is sup- posed to be still living in fairy-land and will come back to earth when the proper time arrives. He is said to sit at the Round Table. Vide Morgaine la Faye, Papillon, Charlemagne, Raven. Aruru : Babyl. Myth. A goddess to whom is ascribed the creation of Gilgamesh and Eabani. Arva : " A horse.” One of the horses of the moon ; a fabulous animal, half horse, half bird, on which the Daityas are supposed to ride. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 25.) Arvak : Norse Myth. One of the horses of the sun, the other being Alsvid. Arvan : Another spelling for Arva. Aryskoui : An ancient war-god of the Red Indians of America. Asakku : In Babylonian superstition the Asakku were the demons who carried and spread plague. Ascalophos : Son of Acheron. In a Greek tale he was turned into an owl for telling tales and trying to make mischief. Ascension Day : In Swabia, on this day, wreaths of red and white flowers are hung up over stable doors, as a preven- tive against lightning. (Wuttke, p. 21.) In North Germany it is believed, that melons planted on this day grow well. (ib.) In Hessen it is believed that herbs plucked or collected on Ascension Day are especially powerful for medicinal purposes, (ib.) . Ascanius : Class. Myth. The son of /Eneas and Creusa, who accompanied Iris father in his wanderings after the fall of Troy ; later, he succeeded his father. Asclepius : In later Greek religion he is the god of medicine and healing. Ases : Scand. Myth. Gods of benevolence. Asgard : Norse Myth. It is the abode or the citadel of the gods. It is situated at the zenith, and can be reached only by the bridge Bifrost, the rainbow. Ash : If ash is thrown into the room from a burning log, troubles and anxieties must be expected. {Greece, Lawson, p. 328.) On the tenth night after the death of a person, he who fired the funeral pyre is required to sift some ashes, near which a lamp is placed, and the whole covered with a basket. Next morning the ashes are examined, and the ghost is said to have migrated into the animal whose mark appears on the ashes. [India — N.I.N.Q., III, p. 35; Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 74; Ethnologie du Bengale, P- 731- Ashmodai : Jewish lore. A demon, generally regarded as the same as' Asmodeus. Ashtoreth : The Phoenician goddess Astarte, the goddess of fertility and reproduction. She was worshipped from time to time by the Israelites. Vide Astarte. Ashur : Assyr. Mvth. The chief deity of the Assyrian pantheon. He was" the god of military prowess. His symbol was the winged circle. Ash Wednesday : Cattle must not be tied up on this day. as thev lose their strength by so doing ; neither must they be sold — it brings ill-luck. (Wuttke, p. 22.) A-Siras : A race of spirits or beings without heads. (Dowson, H.C.D., p 26.) cf. Acephali, Blemmyce, Askefruer : “ Ash-nymphs.” These are Danish forest-spirits of present-day superstition. Their bodies are covered with hair, their faces are wrinkled, they have hanging breasts and dishevelled hair and are usually dressed in moss. They are endowed with various occult powers and especially with that of curing diseases. (Thiele, Danmarks Folkesagn.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 1 28 A DICTIONARY OF Asmodeus : In Jewish demonology it is the name of an evil spirit of anger and lust. Later, he was the king of the demons. Asp : Queen Cleopatra of Egypt is said to have committed suicide by holding an asp to her bosom. To dream of an asp is good ; it promises wealth and a rich wife. Asrael : Mahometan Myth. An angel of death. He is im- measurable in height, insomuch that the space between the eyes equals a journey of 70,000 days. Vide Azrael. Ass : The mark running down the back of an ass and the cut at right angles over the shoulders is the cross of Christ, impressed on the animal, because Christ rode an ass during his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Three hairs taken from the “ cross ” of an ass, will cure whooping cough, but the ass from which the hairs are plucked will die. The blood of a she-ass will cure epilepsy. (Stracker j an, Vol. I, p. 84.) Vide Beans. As-Sayyahun : These are the “ pious travellers ” of Moham- medan mythology. They are angels who scour the country with the intention of frequenting only those gatherings where the name of Allah (God) is being repeated. Assides : A plant in the country of Prester John. It not only protects the wearer from evil spirits, but forces every spirit to tell its business. (Brewer, R.H.) cf. Tulsi, Chikuli, Che. Astarte : The Phoenician goddess of fertility and of sexual love. By the Classical nations she was also regarded as a moon goddess. Human sacrifices were often offered to her. (See Frazer, Adonis, Attis and Osiris). Asthma : Asthma can be cured by foam (q.v.) from a mule’s mouth. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. Ill, p. 23; Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 143). Asto-vidatu : In Persian superstition it was a spirit who divided the bones at death. Astraea : Class. Myth. Daughter of Zeus and Themis. She was a goddess of justice, and was the last of the divinities to leave the earth at the end of the Golden Age. She became the constellation Virgo. Asur : Same as Ashur. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Asura : Hindu Myth. The word “ Asura ” was originally used as an epithet of the higher gods ; later, it became synony- mous with an evil spirit or demon and an enemy of gods or devas. The Asuras were created from the downward breathing of a Prajapati, and had darkness and magic ascribed to them. In the Rig Veda this was the name given to Varuna (q.v.) ; later, it denoted a ghostly and demoniacal being of a lower order. (Otto, Das Heilige, p. 153.) Asvins : Vedic Myth. Two gods of dawn, twin brothers, young and beautiful, capable of assuming any forms they chose, and said to be sons of a nymph. They are the physicians, of heaven and benefactors of mankind, cf. Dioscuri. Asynjur : Norse Myth. They were the goddesses of Asgard. (q.v.), associates of the iEsir (q.v.) and distinguished from the Vanir (q.v.) goddesses. Ataguchu : A Peruvian god who helped Apocatequil (q.v.)., Athanas : Gr. Myth. The mad paramour of Ino (q.v.) who. slew Ino’s two sons. Athena : One of the greater Olympian deities, prominent as a civic goddess, wise in the industries of peace and in the arts of war. Atlantides : The Pleiades or seven stars, fabled to be the daughters of Atlas and Pleione. Atlantis : A mythical island in the west, said to have been sunk beneath the ocean by an earthquake. The Atlantic Ocean is said to derive its name from this island. Atlas : In later Greek mythology he was a Titan, son of Iapetus and Clymene. He was forced to support the heavens on his head and hands, as a punishment for warring against Zeus. Atli : In the Volsunga Saga Atli is a king corresponding to Etzel in the Nibelungenlied ; he marries Gudrun and invites her brothers to court, where they are treacherously slain. Gudrun avenges them by killing her own and Atli’s two sons, and later, Atli himself. Atma, Atman : The soul, the principle of life ; the supreme soul. YHGGGG'iGt 'CMCCC; Atropos : Gr. Myth. One of the Fates (q.v.), or goddesses of destiny. She is the one who cuts off the thread of life, cf. Bidhatdpurusha, Fates, Norn, Parca, Hathor, Sudicky . A Tsze : A fox (q.v.) in human form is known among the Chinese as A Tsze. (Mayer, Chin. Dead. Man., p. 65.) 3o A DICTIONARY OF Attis : Class. Myth. A god of vegetation and of young life. According to a legend, violets sprang from his blood. He was beloved by the goddess Cybele. Audhumla : Norse Myth. The cow formed from frost. She nourished Ymir with four streams of milk, and licked out of the salty frost stones a being, called Buri (q.v.). August : Vide Onyx. Aurora : Rom. Myth. The goddess of dawn. Vide Eos. Aurora Borealis : It gives warning of an impending war ; the red light in it denotes the blood to be shed in the war. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 63.) Auxo : Gr. Myth. One of the three goddesses known as Heures (q.v.) Avalon : The place where Morgaine la Faye (q.v.) keeps Holgar the Dane entranced. Axe : If cows, the first time they are taken out in spring, be made to step over an axe, they will be invulnerable to all kinds of magic and witchcraft. ( East Prussia, Wuttke, p. 98.) cf. Weather Bad. Azi : In Persian means “ Greed ” ; hence greed personified. Azrael : Another spelling for Asrael, ’Azrail. ’Azrail : Same as Azrael above. In Mahometan mythology he is the angel of death. He consigns the souls he has seized to the angels of compassion or to the angels of punishment, according as they are believers or unbelievers. B Baal : The chief male divinity of the Phoenicians. The Assyrians identified him with Beal (q.v.) Baba-Yaga : The Baba Yaga of Russian folklore is a hideous old beldam/whose children are the evil spirits. She is said to steal children for the purpose of gratifying her desire for human flesh. She has teeth and breasts of iron, with which she rends her victims ; her home is in a far distant forest. (See Ralston, Folktales of the Russians.) Baby : In Bohemia if a pregnant woman wishes to have a baby boy, she puts poppy seeds outside on the window sill ; if a baby girl, sugar. New-born babies must not be carried over cross-roads ; ignoring this precaution is equivalent to the signing of the death sentence of the child. {Pomerania, Wuttke, p. 194.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Bacchus : Rom. Myth. The god of wine and riotous merri- ment, son of Jupiter and Semele. He is the prototype of Dionysus of the Greeks. He helped his father in his wars with the giants. Backache : Backache can be cured by keeping chestnuts in the pocket. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 85.) Bachelor : At the funeral of a bachelor, cast sand before the coffin, to blind the eyes of the unbegotten children of the deceased. {Kurdistan. Jew. Enc., Vol. IX, p. 600.) Bacon : Bacon, especially if it is stolen, is a powerful medicine for various diseases, such as warts, fever, constipation, etc. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 83; Vol. II, p. 85). Vide Pig, Moon. Badhava : Hindu Myth. It is a flame with the head of a horse ; called also Haya-Siras, “horse-head.” (Dowson, H.C.D., P- 39-) Bagouly : The modem name for Pactolus (q.v.), Bahman’s Knife : When Prince Bahman started on his exploits, he gave his sister Parizadi, a knife which, he told her, would remain bright and clean as long as he was safe and well, but, immediately he was in danger, or dead, would become dull or drop gouts of blood, cf . Canace’s Mirror, Sophia’s Picture, Florimel’s Girdle, Ring Bertha’s Emerald. Balaam’s Ass : An ass which is said to have spoken Hebrew on one occasion to Balaam cf. Al Borak, Arion, Achilles’ Horses. Balder : Teut. Myth. Son of Odin and Frigg, god of light and peace, and of the good, beautiful, eloquent and wise. He was slain by the contrivance of the evil Loki. Vide Hoder, Mistletoe. Bali : Hindu Myth. A good and virtuous Daitya king ; through devotion and penance he defeated Indra, humbled the gods and extended his authority over the three worlds. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 42.) Bali, Balin : A monkey-king of Kishkindhya, who was slain by Rama, and whose kingdom was given to his brother Su-griva, a friend of Rama. He was supposed to be the son of Indra and to have been born from the hair ( bala ) of his mother, whence his name. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 42,) Balin : Balin and Baiun of Arthurian legend were two knights who, though brothers, slew each other by mistake. mm 32 A DICTIONARY OF Balmung : In the Nibelungenlied it is the name of the famous sword of Siegfried, cf. Excalibur, Tizona. Balor : Celt. Myth. A king of the Fomors (q.v.), whose eye blighted all he looked at. It was therefore always kept closed, except in war. In the wars with the gods, he slays Nuada, and is slain by Lugh who blinds his fatal eye with a magic missile. Baiun : Vide Balin. Ban : Babyl. Myth. She is the consort of Nin-girsu and one of the most prominent goddesses of the pantheon. Bana : A Daitya, eldest son of Bali ; he had a thousand arms. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 42.) Bandicoote : If a woman eats the flesh of bandicootes after she has passed her eleventh or twelfth year, she will be barren ( Western Australia — Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. I, p. 508). Bangma (masc.), Bangmi (fem.) : A fabulous bird in India, which is not only supposed to have human speech, but is also oracular. (Day, Folk-tales of Bengal) cf. Bulbul Hezar , Banmanus : In some Indian dialects means a 14 monkey.’5 (Sanskrit: vana=wood; manushya=man ; man of the wood.) cf. Monkey , Orang-utang . Bannik : In Russian folklore this is the name of a household spirit, who lives in the bathroom. (D.R.JJ., Art., De- monology, Slavic) Banquet ; It is good to dream of a banquet ; it denotes prosperity. Banshee : It is a supernatural being, supposed by the peasantry of Ireland and of the Highlands of Scotland, to wail under the windows of a house, where one of the inmates is about to die. Certain families of rank were reputed to have a special spirit of this kind. (Lady W ilde, pp. 135-7 > D. R. MacAnnalay, Irish Wonders , p. no; Kennedy, Fireside Stories, pp. 143-4; T. Crofton Croker). cf. Bodachun Dun , Bozaloshtsh , Death Warnings , Gwrach y Rhibyn, Smrtnice, Cyhiraeth » Banyan: Indian folklore. The banyan tree is a representation of the god Siva. One who cuts this tree is punished with the extirpation of his family. (Jackson, JF.I JV., Vol. I, p. 136.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 33 Baptism : If a child cries during baptism, it is the devil going out of it. ( Niagara Falls, Ont., Bergen, C.S., p. 21.) Baptismal Water : If a baby girl be baptized with the same water with which a boy has been baptized just before she will, in later life, have a growth of beard. ( East Prussia, Mark , Oberlausmtz . W uttke, p4 198 ) Barahoot : A well in the province of Hadramot> in which the souls of unbelievers reside. (Lane ASM A p. 264.) Vide Zemzem . Barbara, St. : Vide Storms, Dying. Barbarossa : Frederick Barbarossa, “ Redbeard ” a German king, is supposed to sit at a marble table in Kyffhauser His beard is growing through the table. In another variation of the legend, his beard is growing round the table, and when it grows three times round the table, he will wake up. “ Er ist niemals gestorben, Er lebt darin noch jetzt; Er hat im Schloss verborgen Zum Schlaf sich hingesetzt. Sein Bart ist nicht von Flachse, Er ist von Feuerglut, Ist durch den Tisch gewachsen, Worauf sein Kinn ausruht.” — Fr. ROckert: Barbarossa im Kyffhauser. cf. Holgar the Dane, Charlemagne, Alfred King. Barley gaffer : The English name of the Gerstenalte. Barn : To dream of bams stored with com denotes that you will marry well, overthrow your adversaries at law and grow rich. Barnacle : A barnacle broken off a ship turns into a Solan goose. (Bassett, p. 265.) “ There are in the north parts of Scotland certaine trees, whereon do grow shell fishes, etc., etc., which falling into the water, do become fowls, whom we call barnacles.” (Gerard, Herbal, 1597, p. 1391 ; Brand, Observations, Vol. Ill, p. 362.) “ Like your Scotch barnacles, now a block, Instantly a worm, and presently a great goose.” Marston, The Malcontent (1604). A DICTIONARY OF 34 Barrenness : Barrenness can be cured by drinking water in which moss growing on the Temple walls has been boiled. {Jews of Palestine. Schiffer, Ur quell, V, p. 235.) Menstrual blood cures barrenness (Strack, p. 16.) In Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is believed that barren- ness is caused by the woman cohabiting with the devil (Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. I, p. 507, quoting Gluck, Die Tatowierung dev Haut, etc.) ; among the Chippeway . Indians, because she is untrue to her husband. According to the Magyars, a woman may be made barren if the genitals of a corpse be rubbed with her menses (Ploss, of. cit., Vol. I, p. 508, quoting V. Wlislocki) . Vide Bandicoote, Pig, Swallow, Mandrake. Basilisk : An animal which comes out of the egg of a black cock. It is so extremely poisonous that it can kill at a distance by its glance. It is a monster with a human face ; no human being can look at it and live. cf. Dragon, Gin-sai, Bazalicek. Basin : To dream of a basin signifies a good maid. Basket : If children carry baskets on their heads, they will not grow tall; (Griffis, M.E., p. 470.) cf. Gun. Bastard : A woman by giving birth to seven bastard children regains her virginity (!) (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 127). Bat : Bats flying about in a house foretell a death. [India] see also Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 24.) Of all animals the luckiest is the bat, and happy is he who keeps a bat’s bone about his person. ( Macedonia — Abbott, p. no). The right eye of a bat, carried in the waistcoat pocket, makes a man invisible. {Bohemia— Grohmann, p. 58.) Bathing : If you dream of bathing in clear water you will prosper ; but if in muddy water shame and sorrow will be your portion. Bat horin : It is a demon of Jewish folklore, which brings diseases of the eye to one who fails to wash his hands after meals. (Bruhl, Jahrbuch, Vol. I., p. 157.) Bath-tub ; Among the Jews of Galicia it is said that a child’s bath-tub must not be used for any other purpose, or the child will not prosper. (Schiffer, Urquell, Vol. V, p. 141.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 35 Battle : On the day a battle is expected to take place, the wives of the Tschi-speaking men, who are away with the army, paint themselves white and run about armed with guns, or sticks made to look like guns, and taking some melon-like fruits hack them with knives, as if they were chopping off the heads of the enemies. (Ellis, The Tschi- speaking Peoples of the Gold Coast, p. 226.) Baudoin : Balaam’s Ass (q.v.) was called by this name. Bay tree : The withering of a bay tree prognosticates death. The Romans called the bay “ the plant of the good angel,” because neither sickness nor evil will infest nor have anything to do in a place where a bay tree is. BazalRek : In Bohemian superstition it is a kind of a spirit which is born out of the egg of a black cock. Its look is so poisonous that no one can look at it and live. (Groh- mann, p. 18.) cf. Basilisk, Dragon, Gin-sai. Beads : Among the Hindus, a necklace of beads, used in the same manner as a rosary (q.v.), is a powerful charm against malevolent spirits. As an antidote to the Evil Eye blue beads are especially valued, and are hung round the necks and pasterns of horses and other valuable animals. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 19; Abbott, p. 144.) cf. Crucifix. Beans : If you eat no beans on Christmas Eve, you will become an ass (Ragner). If you dream of beans, you will have a rich and cruel enemy. On the last night of the year, the head of a Japanese household scatters beans about the house with ceremonial rites, in order to exorcise evil spirits (A. Humbert, Le Japon illusive, Paris, 1870, Vol. II, p. 326; Bertholet, p. 43. cf. Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 118.) Bear : Bears scare diseases away ; hence children are taken for a ride on the back of a bear, or one of his hairs is worn round the neck as an amulet {India, Crooke, P. R. I., Vol. II, p. 242.) According to a legend, the young of a bear is born a shapeless mass; the dam licks her cub into its proper shape and life. When a bear is slain by the North American Indians, they will beg pardon of the animal and sometimes even go through a form of smoking a “ pipe of peace ” with him, lest his spirit return to do them harm. (Schoolcraft ; Frazer, G.B., Vol. II, p. 398; Bertholet, p. 12.) Vide Heart. fiT-CT: 36 A DICTIONARY OF Beard : In Macedonia a beardless man is regarded as particu- larly ill-omened. (Abbott, p. 105). In India the same superstition is prevalent. If a baby girl be baptized with water with which a boy has been baptized, she will have a growth of beard later. (WUTTKE, p. 198.) Beast : In China it is generally believed to the present day, that demon witches can assume the form of foxes and other beasts. (de Groot, Religious Systems of China, Vol. IV, pp. 156, etc.) The Stiens of Cambodia ask pardon of the beasts they have killed (Meuhot). Beautiful : In Arabic demonology, Jinns (q.v.) sometimes appear in the form of human beings ; if they are good spirits, they appear beautiful; if evil, horribly hideous. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 35). Beauty : Beauty can be acquired by bathing in May dew. (Wuttke, p. 176), or by drinking cold coffee, or by bathing in human blood. (Strack, p. 10, quoting Grimm, 181.) Beaver : When a beaver is hunted, it bites off the part which the hunters seek and then, standing upright, shows the hunter that it is useless to continue the pursuit. Becket, St. : This saint has the power of curing blindness. Bed : Girls sit on the bridal bed for luck (Meakin, The Moors, p. 441). To dream of beds indicates approaching marriage. Vide Hydrophobia. Bedclothes : Picking the bedclothes is a sign of an impending death (Lean, Vol. II, p. 573). Bedstead : The foot of a bed should not point towards the door ; those who lie on such a bed will be taken out of the room as corpses. ( Hessen , Lauenberg, Wuttke, p. 132.) Bedsteads should not be carried into a room with the foot-end first ; those lying on such beds will die. ( Silesia , ib.) Bee : The buzzing of a bee in a room indicates that a stranger is about to pay the house a visit. ( Ethnologic , p. 117.) If a member of the family dies and the bees are not “ pnt into mourning,” they will forsake their hive (Frazer, Death and Burial Customs, Scotland, F.L.J., 3, 281 ; El worthy, p. 95). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Bees building their hive in a house foretell that the house will catch fire ( Malay Peninsula, Skeat, Malay Magic, p. 535)- It is unlucky for a stray swarm of bees to flight on your premises (Elworthy, E.E., p. 95.). ' ;; • If bees swarm on a rotten tree, a death will occur in the family within the next twelve months. Bees will never thrive if you quarrel with them or about them. A swarm of bees suddenly forsaking their hive foretells a death (Lady Wilde, p, 181). Vide Virginity, Beehive. Beehive : If bees build their hives on a house, the house is sure to catch fire. [Silesia, Tyrol, Wuttke, p. 32 ; cf. above!) When going along the street with a beehive; you must . never look round ; if this precaution be taken' the ■ bees will never forsake their, hives. (Welterau, West- phalia, Wuttke, p. 183). Vide Bee. : Beelzebub : One of the Devil’s numerous names. " One next himself in pow’r and next in crime Long after known in Palestine and named Beelzebub . . .” ' Milton : Paradise Lost, Bk. I, 79-81. Beetle : Beetles in popular superstition are both deaf and blind. ... ;.UyG:,,..;J/yv V');.; ":-rW _ _ • To kill a beetle brings rain, thunder and lightning (Lean, Vol. II, p. 136). Beggar : The curse of a beggar is considered by the Jews of Byelostok and Kiev to be effective. (Jew. Enc.) If you dream of beggars coming in the house and taking things away, you will have great adversity. Bel : Babyl, Myth. A deity, belonging to the supreme Triad, which comprised Anu (q.v.), god of the heavens, Bel, god of the earth and Ea (q.v.), god of the waters. (Enc. Brit., Vol. Ill, p. 114.) Vide En-lil. Belial : It is the Hebrew name for the spirit of evil personified. The word was used from early times as a name for the Devil or one of his fiends, and by Milton in his Paradise Lost, as the name of one of the fallen angels. Belit : Assyr. Myth. A goddess, wife of Ashur. Bell : You will be sure of toothache if you eat while a funeral bell is tolling. Be warned in time by this American superstition, or take the consequences. Vide Death Omens. 38 A DICTIONARY OF Bells in the ear : A buzzing sound— generally called “bells in the ear” — in the right ear of a person denotes that something good is spoken about him, or that he is praised ; in the left ear, something bad, or that someone is back- biting him. (Gt. Britain, Germany, France, Greece, Bohemia, India ; cf. Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 31 ; . Lawson, p. 328). It is an indication that someone is thinking of you, “ Left your mother, Right your lover.” — Popular Rhyme. Bellerophon : Gr. Myth. A Corinthian hero, son of Glaucus, grandson of Sisyphus, who killed the Chimera (q.v.) with the help of the winged steed, Pegasus. Belphegor : The name of a certain arch-demon. According to a story, he was chosen by Lot to live on earth for ten years, in order to test the truth of the statement that wives brought their husbands to hell. Belphegor tried, but was dismayed and fled from the terrors of the married state. Belt : Magicians and witches are supposed to possess the power of transforming themselves into animals, mostly of a ferocious nature (see Werewolves, Bereserker), by means of putting on certain belts. (See Ennemoser, Geschichte der Magie ; Tylor, Primitive Culture ; Grimm, Deutsche Mythologie ; O'Donnell, Werewolves.) Bendis : Class. Relig. A Thracian goddess. She was generally identified with Artemis by the Greeks. Ben nefilim : In Jewish folk-lore the demon of epilepsy is usually called by this name. Benten : In Japanese superstition she is the goddess of luck. She is also goddess of knowledge and eloquence. (Chamberlain). See God of Luck. Berenice’s Hair : Berenice, Queen of Ptolemy III, hung up her hair in obedience to a vow, in the temple of Nuwar. The hair disappeared and is fabled to have been carried to Heaven, where it was changed into a constellation. Bereserker : In Norse .folk-lore it is the name of one of a class of wild warriors, who are supposed to be capable of assuming animal shapes, especially those of the bear and the wolf. When in these forms, a rage or frenzy comes upon them, they howl like wolves or growl like bears, foam at the mouth, have enormous strength and are believed to be invulnerable to fire and iron. cf. Were- wolves. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Berlic : A certain Swiss spirit of mischievous nature. ( Talla Leg. Vaud., p. 27). Bernardo del Carpio : He lifted Orlando in his arms and squeezed him to death, because his body was proof against any instrument of war. Anteus (q.v.) is also reputed to have been squeezed to death by Hercules. Bertha : Vide Perchta, White Lady. Bes : Egypt. Myth. A god of varied attributes, but chiefly a deity averting the evils of omen and witchcraft, and god: of pleasure. In some myths he plays an important role in creation, separating Heaven and Earth from their primordial union. Bhaga : Hindu Myth. A deity who is supposed to bestow wealth ; he presides over marriage. (Dowson, H.C.D., P- 43-) Bhairava : Hindu Myth. A guardian spirit. Bhairava (m.) ; Bhairavi (f.) : “ The terrible ” ; names of Siva and his consort, Devi (q.v.). The Bhairavas are eight inferior manifestations of Siva, all of which are of a terrible character. They are : (i) Asitanga, black- limbed ; (ii) Sanhara, destruction ; (iii) Ruru, a dog ; (iv) Kala, black ; (v) Krodha, anger ; (vi) Tamra-chuda, copper-crested ; (vii) Chandra-chuda, moon-crested; (viii) Maha, great (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 45.) Bhuta : A ghost, imp, goblin. These are malignant spirits which haunt cemeteries, lurk in trees, animate dead bodies and delude and devour human beings. They are fierce and are eaters of flesh ; they were created by the Creator, when He was incensed. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 55.) Bhuta, like our English word “ ghost,” is a general term for demons in India. They emanate from those who die an unnatural death by violence, accident, suicide, etc., or those who have been robbers, evil-doers, etc. The Bhuts eat filth and drink any water, however impure. As a rule, they are powerless by day and become active only at night. (See Crooke, P.R., Vol. I, pp. 234 et seq. ; Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 94.) Vide Goblin, Filth, Desert , Treasure. Biasd na Srogaig : Celt. Folklore. A mythical animal peculiar to the Isle of Skye. It had but one horn on its forehead and dwelt in lochs. It is the Celtic equivalent of the Bogey (q.v.), Bubak (q.v.), Bumann (q.v.). (Campbell, Sup. of Scot. Right., p. 218.) cf. Unicorn. 4o A DICTIONARY OF Bible.: An open bible keeps away, evil spirits. [Christian Countries .) • • ^ , The bible is subject to, a host of superstitions, cf. Qoran, Prayer Book. Bidhata Purusha : Hindu Myth. He is equivalent to the Classical Fates' and the Scandinavian Norns. He is a god of fate ; he writes the child’s future life on its forehead, on the sixth day of its-birth. (Day, Folk Tales of 'Bengal, p. 9.) cf. Parca, Fates,- Norn, Sudicky, Hathor. Biersel : In German superstition it is a kind of Kobold, who : 4 lives in the cellar, cleans the jugs and bottles, but must have his jug of beer for his pains. ( Torgau District, Wuttke, p. 230.) Bifrost: Norse Myth. The bridge leading to Agard (q.v.); . cf. Al Sirat. Bilocation : The power of being present in two different places at one and the same time.. St. Alfonso di Liguori was said to have had this power. • Bilwis : Teut. Myth. . It was a supernatural being of male- ficent powers, whose season of activity was Walpurgis Night. This was a soul-like character, which flitted through • the fields and wrought havoc to the crops. Bir : In Indian superstition it is a very malignant village demon (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 254). Bird : When birds are shot or are dying, they fly to the nearest water. Fish are sometimes transformed into birds ( China — Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 301.) The single, or twice repeated, cry of a bird is a good omen ; but if the cry be repeated three times, the meaning is reversed [Greece— Lawson, p. 313). If birds enter the house and fly round in a room, it is a sign of death (le Braz, Vol. I, p. 7, quoting Tierney, Hermine, Vol. XXXIII, p. 235). Birth : Children cannot be born till the tide comes in. If you are bom at sermon-time on Christmas morning, you can see spirits. (Ragner.) “ First a daughter, then a son. The world is well begun. First a son, then a daughter. Trouble follows after.” Maine and Massachusetts (Bergen, C.S., p. 24). . Vide Night, Distaff, Star, Crow, Friday, Kitten, Stork, Sugar, Tomb, Underclothing. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Birthday : To die on one’s own birthday is considered by the Jews to be a good omen. (Jew. Enc., Vol. IV, p. 486.) Bishamon : Jap. Myth. A god of luck (q.v.), represented as being in complete armour and carrying a spear. Bittern : The cry of a bittern foretells some misfortune, probably death. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 26.) Biu : In Egypt they have usually hawks’ or jackals’ heads ; but some biu are entirely birds. Blaakula : Like Blocksberg of the Germans, it was the favourite resort of the Swedish witches. (Lehmann, A.Z., p. 112 • Ennemoser, Hist. Mag., Vol. II, p. 195.) Black : Black denotes death and guilt ; therefore the Devil is always black. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 68.) Blackbird : To see two blackbirds in one place is an omen of good luck in the East. (St. Clair Tisdall, Mod. Pers. Corn. Gram., 2 Ed., p. 45, Exercise II.) If you dream of a blackbird and a thrush sitting on the same tree, you will have two wives, or two husbands as the case may be. Blain : St. Cosmos is the one who can cure them. Blaise, St. : Vide Quinsy, Sore Throat, Disease. Blarney Stone : An inscribed stone in the wall of an old castle at Blarney, near Cork, Ireland ; whoever kisses it will have a cajoling tongue (Ireland). Blast : It is a large round tumour which is thought to rise suddenly on the part affected by the baneful breath cast on it by fairies at the time of their vindictive malice. (Elworthy, E.E., p. 534.) Blemmyse : A race of people described by Pliny, and said to be headless ; they have their eyes and mouths in their breasts, cf. Acephali, A-Siras. Blindness : The human saliva is a cure for blindness (Elworthy, E.E., pp. 420, 663 note). St. Thomas a Becket has the power of curing this disease. If the copper coin from the eyes of a corpse be washed in wine or water, and the liquid given to husbands to drink, the husbands will be blind to their wives’ pecca- dilloes (Krauss, Volksglaube und religiose r Branch der Sudslaven, p. 140.) To dream of blindness indicates want of money. Vide Shabriri, Saliva. D A DICTIONARY OF 4? Blindness* Moon ;: It is commonly believed to be produced by sleeping exposed to the full light of the moon. “ There is a great difference of opinion as to facts, some quoting experience as incontrovertible, others regarding the thing merely as a vulgar prejudice, without substantial founda- tion ” (Yule and Burnell, Hobson Jobson, 2 ed., p. 580). Blindness, Night: This can be cured by eating a fire-fly, enclosed in a piece of banana or some other soft fruit. (Bengal, Ethnologie du Bengale, pp. 118, 141.) Blocksberg : It is believed to have been the favourite place of rendezvous of the German and the Danish witches. The Devil himself is said to have attended the gatherings there. (Grimm, Deut. Myth ; Lehmann, A.Z., p. 112 ; Ennemoser, Hist. Mag., Vol. II, p. 195.) cf. Blaakula, Brocken, Hekkenfeldt, Hekla, Lyderhorn. Blood : To see blood is a sign of good fortune, probably money. ( Gt . Britain.) Witches sign their names on a great book with their own blood and swear allegiance to the Devil. (Lehmann, A.rL., p. 114. cf. Goethe, Faust ; Strack, Das Blut.) The burning of blood from the body of a dead animal is a very common method of appeasing the spirits of disease ( Cornwall — Hunt, Pop. Rom., p. 2x3). It is an Esthonian belief that men who see women’s blood will suffer from an eruption of the skin (F. J. Wiede- mann, Aus dem inneren und dusseren Leben der Lhsten, P- 475)- The blood of a virgin mixed with different molten metals helps to mix them thoroughly. (China, Pitman, A Chinese Wonder Book, p. 34.) The same belief is prevalent among many other nations. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 361.) If a young man cuts the little finger of his left hand, and secretly gives the blood flowing from this wound to his sweetheart to drink, she will be madly in love with him. (Ploss, Das Weib.V ol. I, p. 444, quoting v. Schulen- burg, Windisches Volksthum.) Draw blood of a witch, and she cannot harm you (Lancashire). Vide Hydrophobia, Nose, Menstruation, Beauty, Epilepsy. Blood-stone : A kind of stone which is believed to have the power of stopping a flow of blood. (Tylor : Early History of Mankind.) Blood-sucker : In East Prussia the Vampire (q.v.) is usually designated by this name. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Bloody Hand : The family of the Kincardines in Scotland have the Spectre of the Bloody Hand. Blud : The Wend name for a Will-o’-the-wisp (q.v) • it is the soul of an unbaptized child. Blue : The Devil appears in the form of a blue flame (Stracker- JrA1?’ V°l. II, p. 69), especially in fires IGt. Britain). Vide Bnde . ' Blue Goblin : It is a particularly malevolent type of demon in Carnarvonshire. Blue. Men . *IL6 fallen angels were driven out of Paradise in three divisions, one became the Fairies of the land, one the Blue Men in the sea and one the Nimble Men ... or Merry Dancers of the sky.” — Campbell: Sup. of Scot. Highl., p. 199. Boar : In Morocco most wealthy Moors keep a wild boar in their stables, in order that the jinn or evil spirits may be diverted from the horses and enter into the boar. (A. Leaked, Morocco and the Moors, Lond., 1876, p. aoi : Frazer, G.B., Vol. Ill, p. 15.) 7 F Boat : It is unlucky to mention a horse or a mouse on a fishing boat ( Celtic , Rhys, C.F., p. 345 ; Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, P- 453)- A boat would not proceed if there is a man on board who has failed to keep his word ( Turkey , Kunos, T.F.T., p. 185). _ If a girl dreams of falling off a boat and being rescued by a man, she will marry her rescuer. Boback Gartin : Is the name of the one-time spirit of Gartinbeg House. Bodachun Dun : “ The ghost of the Hill ; ” it is said to appear to the family of Rothmurchas in Scotland when a person belonging to the family is about to die. cf. Banshee, Death Warnings, Bozaloshtsh, Smrtnice. Bogey : In English children's superstition it is a spirit of a vague and indefinite nature, whose only aim in life seems to be that of frightening children, cf. Bubdh, Bumann, Biasd na Srogaig. Boggart : In Lancashire this is a peculiarly mischievous spirit and is closely allied to the Brownies. Boil : Boils can be cured by keeping muscatels in one’s pocket. (Strackerjan, Vol. T p. 85.) St. Rooke can also cure boils. Bolt : Vide Lock. 44 A DICTIONARY OF Bone : It is lucky to find bones (Wuttke, p. 96). Vide Lucky Finds . Bonnet : To dream of losing a bonnet prognosticates a speedy marriage. Bonze : If a Japanese fisherman, while going to fish, meets a bonze (priest), he is sure to have bad luck m fishing ; the strict bonze does not eat fish. (Griffis, M.E., p. 470 ; Bassett, p. 108.) cf. Priest. Boobrie : The Boobrie of Celtic superstition was a Water- bird, which inhabited the fresh water and the sea wells of Argyllshire. (Campbell, Tales of the Highlands; Bassett, p. 272.) Book : To drop your books on the way to school signifies that you will make mistakes in your lessons. ( Chester - town, Md .) Boreas : It is the name of the North Wind personified. Bornholm : In Danish superstition, the king of the elves is said to reside in the island of Bornholm. (Thiele.) Boxing : If you spit on your hands your blows will be more telling. Bozaloshtsh : “ God’s plaint ” ; among the Wends she is a messenger of death. She is a little woman with long hair, who cries like a child, beneath the window of a house where someone is about to die. cf. Banshee, Smrtnice, Death Warnings. Bracelet : Vide Nurjehan’s Bracelet. Bragi : Norse Myth. One of the iEsir, god of poetry and husband of Ithunn (q.v.). Brahma : Hindu Myth. The first member of the Trimurti. He is the Creator himself. In the Rigveda he signified power. He is represented as red with four heads, the fifth one being destroyed by Siva. His consort is Saraswati, the goddess of eloquence. Brahmadaitya : In India it is the spirit of a murdered Brahman. In Bengal such spirits are especially powerful and malicious. Sometimes they are headless trunks, with eyes looking from their breasts ; at others, they are harmless and even well-disposed towards human beings. (See Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 96.) According to Rev. L. B. Day, Brahmadaityas are the ghosts of Brahmans who die unmarried. (. Folktales of Bengal, p. 201.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Brawn’s Head : A boy brought to King Arthur’s court a brawn’s head, over which he drew his wand thrice and said . “ There’s never a traitor or a cuckold, who can carve that head of brawn.” Sir Kay was the only knight in King Arthur’s court who succeeded in doing so. cf. Drinking Horn, M antle. Bread : Bread baked on Christmas Eve will not turn mouldy. (Thiers, Traite des Superstitions, Vol. I, p. 317). To bum or throw bread away brings ill-luck ; do so and you will need bread yourself one day. (Gt. Britain.) He who cuts a slice of bread more than the number of persons eating has a hungry relative somewhere. (Silesia, Tyrol, Wuttke, p. 37 ; Bohemia.) To drop a slice of bread with the buttered side up is a sign of a visitor. (Memoirs of the Amer. Folk Lore Soc. Vol. IV, pp. 89 seq.) The Mohammedans never cut bread with a knife, but “ break ” it, saying it is impious to wound bread with steel. (Abbott, p. 103.) In Scotland (Gregor, p. 21), and in Brittany (le Braz, Vol. I, p. 267), on the night following a burial, bread and water are kept in the room where the body lay before the burial. Failure to comply with this precaution causes the deceased to lose his repose in the other world. In Ireland, potatoes and baked cakes are substituted for bread, and serve the same purpose. (Lady Wilde, p. 118.) “ In your pocket for a trust Carrie nothing but a crust. For that holy piece of bread Charms the danger and the dread/' Herrick : Hesperides , ed. Hazlitt, 1869, p, 346. If a piece of bread which has been carried in the pocket of a mourner, be afterwards eaten, the teeth will fall out. (Hunsbruck, Wuttke, p. 213.) It is good to dream of bread ; it indicates prosperity. Vide * Fruits , Change of Address , Disease * Breadcrumb: Maras (q.v.) can be killed by shooting them with a gun filled with breadcrumbs ; ordinary shots have no effect on them. (Strackerjan, VoL I, p. 385.) Breakage : If you break something, you will break two other things. (Memoirs of the Amer . Folk Lore Soc., Vol. IV, pp. 130, 134 ; Great Britain .) A DICTIONARY OF 46 Bream- In Hungary the bream is said to attack men vora- ciously. (Gubernatis, Z.M., Yol. II, p. 344 ; Bassett, p. 261.) Breath: In Chinese superstition it is said that the breath of a living person or the snuffing by a cat or a dog partly revives a corpse. {Chin. Volksmdrchen , p. 202.) Breeze: A sudden breeze which neither disturbs nor dis- arranges anything is a death signal for certain Irish families. It is said to be caused by the passage of the soul. (Lady Wilde, p. 139.) Scratch a foremast with a nail, you will get a good breeze. (KtfHN und Schwartz, N.D.S., p. 454 ; Bassett, p. 143.) Vide Chapel. Breidablik: Norse Myth. The bright abode of Baldar in Asgard. Bress: Celtic Myth. A Fomor, son of Elathan, known for his great beauty.. In his attempt to recover his kingdom, he roused the Fomors to the war in which they were overthrown by the gods. Briar: If you dream of being pricked by briar, you desire to do something, and if you are young, it denotes that you* .. are in love. Bridal Clothes: It is unlucky to wear the bridal clothes before the wedding day ; the marriage will be broken off by so doing. [Pomerania, Silesia, Wuttke, p. 204; France, Great Britain.) Bride: It is extremely lucky for a bride to see a rainbow or a black cat. ( Great Britain.) A bride on her wedding day should wear “ Something old, something new. Something borrowed, something blue.” Vide Green, Stones. — Popular rhyme. Bridesmaid: " Three times a bridesmaid, never a bride.” {Great Britain.) It is lucky for bridesmaids to touch the bride during the marriage ceremony, with their clothes ; if they succeed, they will themselves be married soon. {Munich. Zeitschrift fur deutsche Mythologies, 103.) Bridge: If you dream of crossing a bridge, it shows that you will leave a good situation to seek a better one. Brigit: Celtic Myth. The Gaelic goddess of fire and hearth and of poetic inspiration. She was the daughter of Dagda and wife of Bress. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Brisingamen: Norse Myth. A jewel or necklace, belonging to Freya, which was obtained from the dwarfs. Brocken: In the Harz Mountains (Germany) it is believed to be the favourite haunting place of witches. (Ennemoser, Hist. Mag., II, 195.) cf. Blocksberg, Blaakula, Hekken- feldt, Hekla, Lyderhorn. Broom: Witches fly through the air on broomsticks [General). Two crossed brooms in front of a house door or cattle- shed, is a sure method of keeping witches and evil spirits at bay. Tables should not be dusted with a broom lest one of the household die. (. England ; Jews of Galicia, Schiffer, L r quell, Vol. V, p. 46.) A Hamburg tradition says that if you have long had a contrary wind, and meet a ship bound in the opposite direction, throw a broom before her, and you will get fair wind. (Thorpe, N.M., Vol. Ill, p. 183.) In Indian folklore, if a man sees a broom the first thing after getting up in the morning, he does not pass the day happily ; if a broom be kept erect in the house, a quarrel will follow. (Jackson, F.L.N., Vol. I, p. 149.) Further, children affected with a cough are sometimes fanned with a broom. ( Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 140.) Broomstick: Witches cannot stride over a broomstick. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 344.) Vide Broom above. Brother: Three married brothers should not dwell in the same town. [Jew. Enc., Vol. IX, p. 600, quoting Sefer Hasidim, p. 33 ; cf. Deut. xxv. 5.) This probably accounts for the roving propensities of the Jews. Brownie: A benevolent spirit or goblin of shaggy appearance, supposed to haunt old houses, especially farm-houses in Scotland, and sometimes to perform useful household work while the family is asleep. (See Hazlitt, p. 79.) “ The brownie formed a class of beings, distinct in habit and disposition from the freakish and mischievous elves.” — Scott, Ministr. Bord. Brunhilde: In the Nibelungenlied, a young and stalwart queen, a Valkyrie, whom Siegfried, making himself invisible by means of the Tarnkappe, wins and tames for Gunther. When she learns of this deception from Siegfried’s wife, Kriemhild, she induces Hagen to treacherously murder Siegfried by stabbing him at the back between the shoulders, the only part where he was vulnerable. A DICTIONARY OF 48 Brunnehilde : In the “ Ring of the Nibelungen,” a Valkyrie who aids Siegmund against the will of Wotan (Wodan), and is placed in a fire-guarded stronghold. She sleeps there until awakened by Siegfried, upon whose pyre she even- tually immolates herself. Brushwood: The Khonds place brushwood in the paths leading to places decimated by smallpox and other diseases, in the hope of making the disease-demon retrace his steps. {Enc. Brit., Vol. VIII, p. 6. Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 132.) Brynhild: In the Volsunga Saga, a Valkyrie who for having dis- obeyed Odin, was condemned to become mortal, and was placed in an enchanted castle. Sigurd wakes her from her sleep and they fall mutually in love. She is, however, married to G'unnar. Brynhild procures the death of Sigurd, slays herself with the same sword, and is burnt on the same pyre. Bubak: In Bohemian superstition, it is a kind of spirit, whose name is very frequently mentioned to frighten children, cf. Bogey, Bumann, Biasd na Srogaig. Bubble: A group of bubbles on a cup of tea or coffee signifies money. ( Great Britain ; Memoirs of the American Folk Lore Society, Vol. IV, p. 87.) Bucket: It is unlucky to come across an empty bucket on first going out, but lucky to pass a full one. {General ; Jew. Enc., Vol. IX, p. 600.) Bug: Bugs never infest a dying person (Lean, Vol. II, p. 579.) Vide Flea, Vermin. Bugarik: The Garos of Assam believe this to be a lovely siren, whose head floats on the current. She has the body and arms of a woman, but no legs. She is supposed to kill women and men too, if she can catch them. (A. Play- fair, The Garos; Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 99). cf. Mer- maid, Nixie, Siren, Lorelei, Alrinach. Building: If during the building of a house someone acciden- tally dies, it is a sign that many deaths will occur in the house. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 35.) To dream of an unfinished building denotes future prospects for you, though the present may seem black. If a house be newly built, the owner thereof will shortly die (Goodrich-Freer, Folklore, XIII, 52 ; le Braz, Vol. I, p. 157.) _ Houses in which someone has been burnt to death are not rebuilt. (Curtin, Tales of the Fairies, p. 113.) (See Word-Lore, Vol. I, p. 195.) Bulbul Hezar; Muham. Myth. A nightingale which not only had human speech, but was oracular also. (Burton, A lif laila wa laila, Lane.) cf. Bangma. Bulderbasse : The Danish name for a Poltergeist. Bull: According to the Moslems, a bull supports the earth on its back. Bulla: An ornament, worn by Roman children, which con- tained charms and was originally intended to ward off ghostly anger. Bullet: “ Among the Galelareese, who inhabit a district in the northern part of Halmahera, a large island to the west of New Guinea, it is a maxim that when you are loading your gun to go out shooting, you should always put the bullet in your mouth before you insert it in the gun ; for by so doing you practically eat the game that is to be hit by the bullet, which therefore cannot possibly miss the mark.” (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 25, quoting M. J. van Baarda, “ Fabelen, verkalen en overlev eningen der Galelareezen” in “Bijdragen tot de Taal, Land . . . en Volkenkunde van nederlandsch Indie, XLV (1895), p. 502.) Bullkater : “ Tom-cat ” ; is a German field-spirit. Bullock: If a woman dreams of a bullock, it warns her of a powerful enemy. Bumann: In German children’s superstition, it is a bogey of an indefinite nature. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 422.) cf. Bogey, Bubak, Biasd na Srogaig. Bur: Babyl. Myth. Another name for Adad. Bud: Norse Myth. The progenitor of the gods, licked out of the stones by Audhumla. Burial: Male and female slaves were buried alive with the dead headsmen of various African tribes to administer to his wants in the spirit world. (Haggard, Nada the Lilv, p. 166.) This practice is, in the opinion of some authors, still in vogue among the Chavas of the Zambesi district. In the foundations of houses, towns, cities, etc., people were once buried alive in Teutonic countries. (Grimm, Deut. Myth., 2 Aufl., pp. 38 etc., 1095 ; Tettau und Temme, Volkssagen, p. 109) ; in Siam [Enc. Rel. Eth., ' Art. “ Siam ”) ; among the Slavs (cf. the legend of the Kremlin Palace in Moscow) ; in France (Berenger- F fraud) ; in India (see Yak, Yaksha) ; in Wallachia SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 5<> A DICTIONARY OF (St. John, Legends of the Christian East, p. 187). See also Word Lore, Vol. I, p. 195 ; Frazer, G. B., Vol. I, p. 145 ; Schmidt, Das Volksleben der Neugriechen, pp 194 seq. ; Elworthy, E. E., p. 82 ; Bertholet, Transmigration of Souls, p. 12 ; Prohle in Zeitschr. f. deut. Myth., Vol. I, p. 202. cf. Sail, First Buried, Last Buried. To dream of being buried signifies a serious fit of illness. Burning Ghats: They are the favourite haunts of many evil spirits and are therefore not safe at night. (India.) Buschweiber: The “ Wild-maidens ” or forest-spirits of German superstition. Bush-asp: A Parsi demon with long hands, who lulls men to sleep and attacks them. (Venidad, XVIII, 38.) Busyasta: In Persian mythology it is the typification of inordinate sleep and sloth. Busiris: A legendary King of Egypt who sacrificed all strangers at the altars of the Egyptian gods. He was slain by Hercules. Butter: The first butter churned should not be sold or given away, but it should be eaten at home ; if this is not done the cow will not give any more milk. (Mecklenburg. Wuttke, p. 135 ; Bohemia.) Stolen butter cures warts (q.v.). (N. and Q., 24-10-1925.) Butterfly: If you do not kill the first butterfly you see in the year, some bad luck will befall you (IF. England. Lean, Vol. II, p. 32.) Butterflies are the souls of ancestors. (Ireland. Rhys, C.F., p. 612.) Butterflies flying by night presage death. (G. Hender- son, Survivals in Belief among the Celts, p. 79.) Button : In America, superstitious women usually ascertain the profession of their future husband by counting the buttons on their skirts and repeating the following verse : “ A doctor, a lawyer, a merchant, a chief, A rich man, a poor man, a beggar-man, a thief.” Vide Doubt. — Knortz, p. 98. Butze: A German household spirit. Bwgan: The Welsh generic name for ghosts. Cabbage: Vide Full Moon, Moon Waxing. Cacus: Rom. Myth. A thieving, crafty giant, a son of Vulcan. He was killed in his cave in the Aventine by Hercules. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Cadmus : Gr. Myth. A son of Agenor, king of Phoenicia, founder of Thebes. He killed a dragon, from whose teeth a host of armed men sprang up and fought each other, till all but five were killed ; later, these five became the ances- tors of the Theban families. Caesarian Operation: Babies brought into the world by this means are said to possess extraordinary strength ; also they are endowed with the power of seeing hidden treasures and spirits. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 156. cf. Shakes- peare, Macbeth, v. 7.) Cage: If a maiden dreams that she has let the bird out of the cage, it is a sign that she will be the mistress of the first man who chooses to ask her. Cake: If you dream that you are making a cake, you will have joy and profit. Vide Wedding Cake. Calcutta: There is a story : One of the first European settlers in India came to the place now known under this name, and asked a native what the name of the place was. Owing, however, to the bad pronunciation of the European who wished to say kyd kahta ? (What is it called ?), but said instead, kab kata (When did you cut ?), the native misunderstood him and thinking that he was referring to a tree that had recently been felled, answered, kal kata (felled yesterday) ; hence the name. Call; Witches sometimes ride on calves. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 84.) Call: Calling a dead person three times in succession by his name, forces him to appear and to lose his tranquillity in the spirit world ( East Prussia) ; in Silesia, this holds good only on Christmas Eve. (Wuttke, p. 216.) Vide Death Omens. Calliope: Gr Myth. The muse of epic poetry and eloquence, mother of Linos and Orpheus. She is represented either with a tablet or with a roll of paper. Callirhoe: Class. Myth, (i) Wife of Alcmseon, and the cause, through covetousness, of his death, (ii) An ocean nymph, wife of Chrysaor. Callisto: Gr. Myth. Daughter of Lycaon, king of Arcadia. She was changed bv Juno into a bear, in which shape she was killed by Artemis. Jupiter took her to Heaven and she became the constellation Great Bear. Calvdonian Boar-Hunt: Gr. Myth. It was the pursuit by a band of heroes of the boar, sent by Artemis to ravage Calydon. The boar was finally slain by Meleager. A DICTIONARY OF 52 Calypso: Gr. Myth. A sea-nymph who kept Odysseus (Ulysses) in her island, Ogygia, for seven years. Camel : Arabs sacrificed camels on the grave of the owner (Bertholet, p. 12 ; cf. ibid. p. 22 ; Macdonnel, Vedic Mythology, p. 165 ; Handbook to the Ethnographical Collections of the British Museum, 1910, p. 33, fig. 30.) cf. Burial, Horse, Sati. Camphor: Vide Adultery. Canace’s Mirror: It indicated by its lustre if the person, whom the inspector loved, was true or false, cf. Bahman’s Knife, Sophia’s Victure, Florimel’ s Girdle, Ring Bertha’s Emerald. Candle: To have three candles burning at the same time in a room is unlucky. {Great Britain.) In Ireland, twelve candles are kept alight around a dead body because otherwise the devil may carry the soul away. Evil spirits cannot cross a circle of fire. (Lady Wilde, p. 118.) A film of tallow, called a “ winding sheet,” shot from the top of a lighted candle, gives warning to the house of an approaching death. A candle burning with two distinct flames is, in parts of Germany, an omen of an approaching death ; in Austria, Silesia, Hesse, Tyrol and Swabia, this is a sign of a letter. (Wuttice, p. 37.) If you dream of a candle burning brightly, you will receive a pleasing letter from your sweetheart. Candle Glowing: Virgins have the power of blowing into flame a candle still glowing. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 90 ; Grimm, Deutsche Rechtsalterthiimer, 1828, pp. 932-933-) cf. Light. Cane: “ Salonica schoolboys hold that a hair stretched across the palm of the hand will make the master’s cane split. English schoolboys entertain an identical belief in a hair, but it must be a horse hair. ‘ If the hair be plucked fresh from the tail of a living horse so much the better.’ ” (Abbott, _ p. 301, quoting T. Parker Wilson, “ School Superstitions ” in Royal Magazine, September, 1901.) Cannon-ball: The Chinese fire cannon-balls at the bore in Canton river, while some shoot arrows. (Bassett, p. 23, quoting Dennys.) Canopic Jars: The four jars containing the principal intestines of a deceased person and buried with the mummy. Canwyll Cyrph: Welsh name for Corpse Candles. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Cards: During a game of cards, the devil sits under the table, and if any of the party swears, up jumps the devil behind . him, tail and hoofs and all. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 262.) Carpo: Gr. Myth. One of the Heures (q.v.). Carrying: It is unlucky to carry anything out of a house on Christmas morning until something has been brought in. (Ragner.) Cassia tree: High medicinal virtues are attributed to the leaves and barks of the cassia tree. (China. Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 101.) Cassiopeia: Gr. Myth. She boasted that her beauty was equal to that of the Nereids. As a punishment, Poseidon afflicted the land with floods and a devouring monster, which was afterwards slain by Perseus. Vide Andromeda. Castor: One of the Dioscuri (q.v.). Cat: If a domestic cat washes herself, visitors will come. (Alsace. Lambs, p. 31.) Cats on the deck of a ship are said to “ carry a gale of wind in their tail,” or to presage a coming storm. When cats are very assiduous in cleaning their heads and ears, it prognosticates rain (Hazlitt, p. 96 ; Abbott, p. no) ; or it indicates the point of the compass from which wind is expected (Greece. Lawson, p. 328). The sneezing of a cat indicates good luck for a bride. If a cat sneezes thrice, a cold will run through the family (Great Britain). If a cat crosses your path, ill luck will follow you (Germany, Bohemia) ; a cat cleaning herself denotes guests (North and Central Germany. Wuttke, p. 32). Satan’s favourite form is that of a black cat, hence it is the familiar of witches. (General; Ennemoser, Hist. Mag., Vol. II, p. 148.) A cat has nine lives. Whoever kills a cat will never have good luck (Mace- donia, Abbott, p. no ; Malay Peninsula, Skeat, Malay Magic, p. 191). In Teutonic countries a cat or a dog_ was made to run into a new house before others entered it, as a precaution against possible accidents (Grimm, Deut. Myth. pp. 972, 1-095)- ' Black cats bring luck. A strange tortoiseshell cat coming into the house is unlucky. (Great Britain). 54 A DICTIONARY OF Tom-cats of a tortoiseshell colour are highly prized in Japan as a preventive against shipwreck. (Chamberlain, Ger tr. p. 297) ; or they bring luck to the owner {England). There is a Hungarian proverb that a cat does not die in water, hence its paws disturb the surface. “The cat in folklore is commonly diabolical, and in the bag of proverbs has probably a diabolical allusion. The popular idea that she has nine lives, expresses its mystic character.” (Gubernatis, Z.M., Vol. II, pp. 64 s;q.) A cat jumping over a dead body causes vampirism. {Greece. Lawson, p. 410.) If a man dreams of a cat, and the cat scratches him, his sweetheart is a spiteful termagant ; if a woman dreams the same, she has a rival. Vide Dogs, Shingles. Caterpillar: These will be plentiful if you go into the garden on a Good Friday. (Wuttke, p. 18.) Catherine, St.: She resolves doubts. Catseye: It is considered by the Cingalese as a charm against witchcraft and to be the abode of some genii. Cattle: To dream of cattle portends money. {U.S.A. Knortz, p. 21.) Excessive lowing of cattle indicates much rain or snowfall. (Inwards, p. 153 ; Abbott, p. m.) Caul: Children bom with a caul are lucky ; they cannot be drowned {Great Britain, Brand, Observations, Vol. Ill, p. 114; Times, 20-2-1813, 27-2-1813, 8-5-1848; Hazlitt, p. 99 ; Abbott, p. 139), and they are impregnable to the machinations of evil spirits. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 127.) Celaeno: One of the Harpies (q.v.). Celestial Fox : Chinese Folklore. It is of a golden colour and possesses nine tails ; it serves in the halls of the Sun and the Moon, and is versed in all the secrets of nature. (Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 65.) Cemetery : A handful of earth taken from a cemetery, and thrown at a mill will stop its motion. (Gregor, p. 216.) Centaurs : Gr. Myth. A race of savage beings, said to have lived in Thessaly. They were exterminated in a furious battle by the Lapithes. Poets have regarded them as monsters, half human and half horse. 55 SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Cerberus : Class. Myth. A dog, described by Hesiod as fifty- headed, and by . later writers as three-headed, with a serpent’s tail and serpents about his body, guarding the entrance of the infernal regions, cf. Garni. Ceres : Rom. Myth. Daughter of Saturn and Cybele, the Latin goddess of agriculture. She was later identified with the Greek Demeter. Vide Corn Spirit. Chair : If three chairs be accidentally placed in a row, a death will occur either in the house or in the family. (Ohio.) Chakora : A kind of partridge ; a fabulous bird, supposed to live upon the beams of the moon. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 65.) cf . Manucodiata. Chameleon : They are believed to live on air only. (Hazlitt, p. 101.) “ Excellent, i’ faith, of the chameleon’s dish : I eat the air. . . .” Shakespeare: Hamlet, Act III, Scene 2. Chamunda : Hindu Myth. An emanation of the goddess Durga, sent forth from her forehead to encounter the demons Chanda and Munda. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 65.) Chanda, Chandi : Hindu Myth. The goddess Durga, especially in the form she assumed for the destruction of the Asura called Mahisha. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 66.) Chandi means “ the fierce.” Vide Devi, Kali, Durga. Chandra-kanta : “ The moon-stone ” ; a gem or stone, supposed to be formed from the congelation of the rays of the moon. It is believed to exercise a cooling influence. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 68.) Change of Address : To take a cat with you, when you axe changing your lodgings is unlucky ; it denotes a death. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 49.) Before changing your address, you should take some bread, salt and a broom into the new one ; this would be a safeguard against possible starvation. (Mark— WUTTKE, p. 176.) . It is well to let a cat or dog run in before entering a new house. (Grimm, D.M., pp. 972> I095-) Changeling : A child, usually stupid and ugly, supposed to have been left by fairies in exchange for one taken (Hartland, Science of Fairy Tales ) ; sometimes,, it is an old fairy. (Kuhn und Schwarz, p. 92 ; Wolf, Beitrage, Vol. II, p. 304) ; or the bastard children of water-nixies and human beings whom they have dragged under the sea. , 56 A DICTIONARY OF Chang Sien : Chin. Myth. A divinity worshipped by women desirous of offspring (Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. io.) Chapel : Sardinian sailors obtained a good breeze by sweeping a chapel after Mass, and blowing the dust from it after departing ships. (Bassett, p. 143.) Charlemagne, Emperor : He is believed to be reposing to this day within a mountain near Salzburg, in Austria, cf. Holgar the Dane, Arthur King, Barbarossa. Charon : Class. Myth. Son of Erebus and Nox, whose duty it is to ferry the souls of the dead over the Styx (q.v.). Charontas : Another form of Charos. Charos : In Modern Greek superstition it is the name of Charon. He is represented as a demon of supernatural size and power, is enveloped in a black mantle and is equipped with a golden sword and a quiver full of arrows. He is the personification of death. (Goethes Werke, Bibl. Inst., Leipzig, p. 293 ; Lawson, p. 98.) Chastity : St. Susan protects chastfty. Vide Bees, Salt Cellar, Canace’s Mirror, Drinking Horn, Florimel’s Girdle, Mantle, Sophia’s Picture, Boar’s Head, Water of Jealousy, Light Dying, Candle Glowing, Grotto of Ephesus, Alasnam’s Mirror, Amethyst. Che : A plant of supernatural growth and auspicious omen. (Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 20.) cf. Assides, Chikuli, Tulsi. Chederles : Muham. Myth. A Moslem hero who, like St. George, saved a virgin exposed to the tender mercies of a huge dragon. He also drank of the Water of Immortality and is still living to render aid in war to any who invoke him. Chemise : If a man dries himself on a chemise which has already been worn, he is sure to propose marriage to the owner of the article. (For a possible explanation vide Perspiration.) Cherry Tree : To dream of the branch of a cherry tree is unlucky. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 72 ; U.S.A., Knortz, P- 43-) Cherub : (pi. Cherubim). Muham. Myth. They are angels who are absorbed in the holiness of Allah ; their function is to repeat the tasbih (Glory to God!) night and day. They inhabit a secluded part of the sky, removed from the attacks of the devil, Iblis (q.v.). Chestnut : Chestnuts kept in one’s pocket are a good preven- tative against backaches. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 85.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 57: Chichi Vache : “Sorry cow/* a monster that fed on good women only. It was all skin and bone, because its food was so extremely rare. (Brewer, R.H.) of. Unicorn. Chikuli : It is a kind of cactus which grows in Mexico, and ./ is superstitiously believed by the American Indians, to bring luck to anyone who carries it in his belt/ The wearer is not only protected from the attacks of bears, but deer and • other ’ game allow themselves to be killed 'by him. (Prager Tagblatt , 21st April, 1925.) , cf. Assides, fulsi , Che . v .y • ; , * * Child : St. Germayne Is the patron saint for children, but unless the mothers bring a white loaf and a pot of good ale, he will not look, at them. A dying child may be released from death’? grasp, if nominally sold by the parents to some friend for a shekel ; a change of name may also serve the same end. ( Jews — Jew. Enc.f Vol. IV, p. 486,) Children cannot be born till the tide comes in. Vide Stepping over a child , First-born Children . Childbed Women in childbed must not spin, lest they spin a halter for the child. (Franken — Wuttke, p. , 196.) (For various superstitions see Plgss, Das Weib , Vol. II, * PP-354 etseq.) Chimera : Gr. Myth. A monster, represented as vomiting flames and having the head of a lion, the body of a goat and the tail of a dragon. He was killed by Bellerophon. Chimney : They are the favourite entrances and exits of witches and all evil spirits, (cf. Wuttke, p. 171.) Chimney Sweep : It is lucky to meet a chimney sweep the first thing in the morning. ( Great Britain, France, Germany, Bohemia). Chinta-mani : “ The wish-gem.” A jewel which is supposed to have the power of granting all desires. It is said to have belonged to Brahma, who himself is called by this name. It is also named “ Divya-ratna.” (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 72.) ci. .Aladin’s Wonderful Lamp. Chira-jivan : “ Ever-lived.” Gods or deified mortals who live for long periods. Chiron : Gr. Myth. A Centaur, tutor of Achilles and other heroes. Chitra-lekha : Hindu Myth. “ A picture.” A nymph who was skilled in painting and in the magic arts. Chlvnik : A Russian household spirit who lives in the cattle- shed. . . , , A DICTIONARY OF 58 Choking : Vide Hiccough. Cholera : In cases of epidemics of this disease, Obla Bibi is invoked by the Hindus. Cholera can be detected by throwing up in the air a piece of raw meat, which will immediately turn black. {Great Britain .) To cure cholera, people sleep in churchyards. [Australia.) Chomoriri : A lake in Tibet. According to a story, it derived its name from a woman (Chomo), who was carried into it by the yak she was riding, and cried out in terror : ri-ri ! Choorail : The Moslems of India designate the ghost of a pregnant woman by this name. Chopstick : To break the chopsticks while eating is an extremely bad omen ; if children strike anything with their chop- sticks while at meal, they are believed to be struck dumb. [Japan. — Griffis, M.E., p. 470.) Christmas : Lights are kept burning all night on this day, in order that the spirits of the dead returning to the world, may warm themselves. [East Prussia. — W uttke, p. 216.) Vide Xmas. Christopher, St. : Vide Bad Dreams, Earthquake, Flood, Fire, Night Alarms. Chronos : Class. Myth. The name of the oldest god. Chrysaor : Gr. Myth. Son of Poseidon and Medusa, husband of Callirhoe, by whom he was the father of Geryon and Echidna. Chunsu : Egypt. Myth. A moon-god and god of healing. The chief seat of his worship was Thebes where he formed one of the Triad, the other two being Mut (q.v.) and Amon-Ra (q.v.). He was son of Amon-Ra. Church : To dream of a church and the altar and priests in white denotes a speedy marriage. Church bell : When church bells are ringing for a funeral service, nothing must be eaten, lest the teeth become hollow. [Mark, Hessen. — Wuttke, p. 214.) Churchyard : All churchyards are haunted, (cf. Hazlitt, p. 129.) Churel : In the Deccan, it is the spirit of a pregnant woman, one dying on the day of childbirth or within the puerperal pollution. The Churel is particularly malignant to her own family and appears in various forms, but she in- variably has her heels in front and toes behind. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 270.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 59 Cinder : A cinder bounding from a fire is either a purse or a coffin ; those which rattle, when held to the ear, are tokens of wealth ; those which are mute and solid, indicate sickness or death. Cigar : If you step on a cigar end, you will marry the first man you meet. (Salem, Mass. — -Bergen, C.S., p. 65.) Cigarette : If you light three cigarettes with the same match, one of the persons smoking will die before the year is out (Europe). Circasea Lutetiana : It is considered in Silesia, Hessen and Hunsbruck, to have great magical properties and is a safeguard against witchcraft. (Wuttke, p. go.) Circe : Gr. Myth. A famous enchantress who transformed Ulysses’ (q.v.) companions into pigs. Circle : A circle drawn round a person keeps ghosts and evil spirits away, hence it has always borne an important share in occult purposes, (cf. Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 154; Yol. II, p. 17; Goethe: Faust ; Dalyell, Dark. Sup., p. 120.) Cirein Croin : The sea-serpent of Celtic superstition was the largest animal in the world. (Campbell : Sup. of Scot. Highl., p. 220.) “ Seven herrings are a salmon’s fill. Seven salmons are a seal’s fill, Seven seals are a whale’s fill, Seven whales are the fill of a Cirein Crdin And seven Cirein Croin are the fill of the big devil himself.” — Caithness Rhyme. City of Giants : The Arabs call Jericho, in Palestine, by this name. (Jew. Enc., Vol. V, p. 659.) Claire, St. : She cures bad eyes. Claw : Tigers’ claws are worn by the Chinese to ensure good fortune or to ward off sickness, fire or fright. (Williams, Mid. King., Vol. II, p. 256.) Cleverness : Extremely clever children will be short-lived. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 35.) Vide Angel. Climbing : If you dream you are climbing and reach the top, you will have success in love. Clinking : The clinking of spoons on All Hallows’ Eve indicates that the spirits of dead relatives are hungry. (Tyrol. — Wuttke, p. 216.) - ' ; 6o A DICTIONARY OF Clock : Clocks stop the moment the owner dies. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 590.) Clio : Gr. Myth. The Muse of history. She is represented either as sitting down or as standing, and either with a roll of papers in her hand or with a case of books Reside her. . y Clootie : The Scotch name of the Devil. » Clootie’s Croft : In Scotland' a piece of village land, left untilled and uncropped by the inhabitants of most villages. It is traditional that such pieces were set apart as propitiatory gifts to the Devil. (Webster.) Clothes : To put on clothes -inside out by accident, is sure to bring goqd luck, if not changed (Great Britain , Chambers, Book of Days, Vol . II, p. 321 ; Macedonia, Abbott, p. 144) ; or it indicates that you will be lucky in love (Bohemia). To stitch clothes on your person means a foe for every stitch you make (Great Britain, U.S.A.— Knortz, p. 99), * or that you will die (Great Britain). Vide Coffin. Clotho : Gr. Myth. The goddess who spins the thread of life. Vide Fates. Cloud : If clouds assume the. form of droves of sheep or lambs at the time a baby is born, it prognosticates good luck for the newly-born. (Swabia.— W uttke, p. 30.) If you dream of clouds, and they are white, you will have joy and prosperity ; but if they are black, trouble. Cloven Hoof : In the superstitions of various nations, the cloven hoof is supposed to be a constant attribute of the devil and his followers. Clover : Vide Four-leaved Clover. Clover Mannikin : It was a Teutonic field-spirit who lived in the clover fields. Cluricaune : Irish Lore. A fairy being having the appearance of a tiny old man, supposed to have a knowledge of buried treasures, and to haunt wine-cellars (Croker.) Clymene : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Oceanus, mother of Atlas and Prometheus. Clytemnestra : Gr. Myth. Half-sister of Helen and wife of Agamemnon. Owing to her infidelity during Agamemnon’s absence she was slain by Orestes. Clytie : Class. Myth. An ocean nymph, who pined away for love of Apollo and was changed into a heliotrope. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 61 Coach : In Kilcurry, Ireland, a dead coach is a spectral coach drawn by four headless horses and driven by a headless driver. This coach goes about noiselessly, and gives warning of death, but not necessarily of the person seeing it. (Jones and Yeats, Folklore, X, pp. 199, 122 ; Crofton Croker, Fairy Legends, p. 250.) In Cornwall, the appearance of this coach foretells the death of the person seeing it. It is driven by two headless horses, and its rumbling noise may be heard at midnight. (Miss Courtney, Cornish Folklore, “ Folklore Journal,” Vol. V, p. 109.) Coal : A piece of coal kept in one’s pocket brings luck. (1 Great Britain.) It is unlucky to give a neighbour a live coal to kindle a fire with on Christmas morning. (Ragner.) If you dream of burning coal, you will have shame and reproach, but if of dead coal, expedition in business. Coblyn : A Welsh modification of Goblin ; it is used to denote spirits that are thought to haunt the mines. Cobra : According to the Hindus, the hood of a cobra bears the imprint of the foot of Krishna. Vide Kdliyd. Cobweb : If a girl finds a cobweb on the door, it is a sign that her beau calls elsewhere. {North Ohio. — Bergen, C.S., p. 62.) A cobweb in the kitchen is a sign that there is no courting there. {Boston. Ib.) Cock : A black cock brings luck {Silesia. — Wuttke, p. 176.) The crowing of a cock before midnight is a sign of death ; if heard however, on the way to business, it denotes good luck. {Great Britain.) The Persians are superstitious respecting the crowing of a cock (Monier, First Journey through Persia, 1810, p. 62). The favourable hours for the crowing of a cock are at nine, both in the morning and in the evening, at noon, and at midnight. If a cock crows in the afternoon, it is either a sign of great joy or of great sorrow (le Braz, Vol. I, p. 6) ; if it crows three times at night, it is a sign of death (Deeney, Peasant Lore from Gaelic Ireland, pp. 55, 60, 78 ; N.E. Scotland — Folklore Journal, Vol. VIII, p. 43 ; Wales — Owen, p. 297.). The crowing of a cock before midnight is held in Macedonia to be a sign of death (Abbott, p. 107 ; Thomas 62 A DICTIONARY OF Hardy, Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Ch. XXXIII) ; in Scotland, it is regarded as an indication of coming news. (Campbell, Sup. Scot. Highl., p. 257) ; amongst various African tribes such cocks are held as prognosticating some dire misfortune, and are accordingly killed. (Ellis, Ewe-speaking Peoples, p. 96 ; Tremearne, Hausa Super- stitions and Customs, p. 141.) Vide Alectryon, Basilisk, Bazalicek, Dragon, Lion, Fire. Cockatrice : Another name for a Basilisk (Shakespeare, Rape of Lucrece, 78.) Cockchafer : If the first cockchafer seen be stitched in a piece of cloth and worn as an amulet, it will be a safeguard against attacks of fever. ( Koten , Silesia. — W uttke, P- 95-) Coeyte : Gr. Myth. A river in Hades. Cceus : Gr. Myth. A Titan. Coffee : Coffee drunk cold promotes beauty. Coffin : To lie inside a coffin, though in fun, is to invite certain death. If the clothes of a living person be enclosed in a coffin, their rightful owner will die as the clothes gradually rot away. It is for this reason, that people are afraid of giving away discarded clothes to the poor. ( Holstein , Saxony, Silesia, Hessen, Mecklenburg. — W uttke, pp. 83, 211.) The noise of a coffin being deposited at the door is an omen of death. (Gregor, p. 203.) Coin : In Tyrol, coins found during a storm of rain are considered to have been dropped from heaven, and are used as amulets for luck. (Wuttke, p. 96.) To find a coin with a hole in it, is extremely lucky ; such coins should never be given away. [Great Britain. — Lean, Vol. II, p. 34 ; India.) Colic : St. Erasmus relieves colic. To cure colic stand on your head for a quarter of an hour (Hunt), or carry a hare’s foot on your person (Pepys’ Diary, 31, XII, 1664). Comb : If a comb which has been used for a dead person, be used again, the person who combs his hair with it will shortly die. ( East Prussia. — Wuttke, p. 214.) If you comb a child before it has teethed, its teeth will be separated from each other like those of the comb. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 44.) Constipation : This may be cured by means of stolen bacon (ffiv.) ,v V ... 63 SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Consumption : It may be cured by sleeping over a cow-house or by sucking the blood of a person in health (Lean, Vol. II, p. 489). Comet : The Samoan Islanders hold that the appearance of a comet always indicates the death of a chief. (Prichard, Phys. Hist, of Mankind, II, p. 154.) The appearance of a comet prognosticates war, pesti- lence, famine, destruction of the world or some other grievous calamity. (Wuttke, p. 30 ; Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 23 ; Lehmann, Aberglaube und Zauberei. — ■ Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Nether- lands, etc.) Conch-shell : The conch-shell is sacred to Vishnu. It is the bone of the demon Panchajana, who, according to the Vishnu Parana (v. 21), "lived in the form of a conch- shell under the: ocean. Krishna plunged into the water, killed him, took the shell which constituted his bones, and afterwards used it for a horn. When sounded, it fills the demon hosts with dismay, animates the gods, and annihilates unrighteousness.” Consus : Rom. Relig. An early Italian god of the earth and its harvests. Coral : Coral is a talisman against enchantments, witchcraft, thunder and other perils and all maladies ; hence the use of a coral necklace. It was consecrated to Jupiter and Phoebus. Red coral worn about a person is a certain cure for indigestion. A coral ring is used to keep off the influences of the sun. (Campbell, Notes on the Spirit Basis of Beliefs and Customs, Bomb., 1885, p. 69.) Com : To cure corns take a pearl button and steep it in the juice of a lemon in which it will become dissolved ; place a piece of lemon soaked in this on the com, and repeat it daily, or oftener if required, and it will extract the corn. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 491, quoting N. IV.) Cornelius, St. : Vide Epilepsy, Palsy. Com Spirit : Any of the various personifications, interpreted by folklorists, as representing the vegetative energy of growing grain, with which it flourishes and dies, also the type to which these personifications conform. Many harvest customs are traced to the ancient prevalence of this belief, while such deities as Ceres, Demeter and Persephone are believed to have been the result of this form of superstition. (Webster.)' 64 A DICTIONARY OF Cornucopia : The horn of plenty. It was a goat’s horn filled to overflowing with flowers, fruits and corn, etc., and was the symbol of plenty and peace. Corpse : If a corpse becomes stiff too quickly after death, call him thrice by his Christian name ; the corpse will become pliable again. (Silesia,. — W uttke, p. 210.) Do not look at a corpse after it has been thrown over- board ; if you do so, you will soon follow the same path. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 46.) Sailors do not like to have corpses on board the ship they are sailing in ( Great Britain). “ In a secret murther, if the dead carkasse be at any time thereafter handled by the murtherer, it will gush out of blood, as if the blood were crying to heaven for revenge of the murtherer.” (King James, Dcemonology, p. 136.) cf. Mummy ; Dead Body. Corpse Candles : A lambent flame seen in a churchyard or over a grave, and superstitiously believed to appear as an omen of death in Celtic countries, or to indicate the route of a coming funeral. (Rhys, C.F., p. 275 ; Hazlixt, p. 88.) “ These fiery apparitions (Corpse candles) which do, as it were, mark out the way for corpses to their KoifirjTTjpiov and sometimes before the parties them- selves fall sick.” — Aubrey: Miscellanies (1696). The ignis fatuus, called by the Welsh canwyll cyrph, prognosticates death. If small and of a pale blue colour, it denotes the death of an infant ; if large and yellow, the death of a grown-up person. In Wales the corpse candle appears to warn a family of an impending death. (Owen, pp. 298-301.) In Carmarthen scarcely any person dies but someone sees his light or candle. Captain Leather, Chief Magistrate of Belfast, in 1690, being shipwrecked off the Isle of Man, was told that thirteen of his crew were lost, for thirteen corpse candles had been seen moving towards the church- yard ; it is really a fact that thirteen of the men were drowned in this wreck, (cf. Bassett, p. 3x7.) Cosmos, St. : This saint cures blains. Cotton : A piece of cotton sticking on a dress, denotes a letter ; the initial of the name of the person from whom the letter is to come may be seen from the form of the cotton. Cough : In India children affected with a cough are fanned with a broom. -(Jackson, F.L.N., Yol. I, p. 149.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 65 Coupe enchantee : Vide Drinking Horn. Courage : A man who is of a. nervous temperament, can become courageous by carrying the tongue of a fox with him (. Bohemia — Grohmann, p. 54), or by eating a piece of a lion’s heart (Arabia — Frazer, G.B., Vol. IT, p. 355.) Vide Pillow. Cow : The cow is a sacred animal in India. “ Curst cows have curt horns.” (“ Curst ” means “ Angry, fierce.”) Vide Death Omens. Crab : In Siamese belief there are giant crabs and great scorpions in the sea who drag ships down. (Bassett, p. 218.) Cracking : Cracking of the finger joints when pulled, denotes that the owner is loved by someone. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 91.) Cradle : The child which sleeps in a cradle procured before its birth, will be short lived. ((Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 44)- To rock an empty cradle brings evil or calamity to the child which sleeps therein later on. (Great Britain.) “ Rock a cradle empty, Babies will be plenty.” Peabody, Mass. (Bergen, C.S., p. 24). To dream of a cradle Is a certain sign of marriage. Cramp : Tying the garter round the left leg below the knee cures cramp. Cramp may be avoided by using mole’s paws, or hare’s ankle-bone. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 492.) Vide Shibbeta, Eel, Slipper, Sheep. Cream : To dream of cream being spilt on you denotes the infusion of some grace from above. Cremation Grounds : In Hindu superstition these are said to be the favourite haunts of demons and witches. Tawney, Kdtha — sarit — sdgara, Vol. I, p. 159.) Creon : Gr. Myth. Brother-in-law of (Edipus, who espoused the cause of Etiocles against Polynices. He condemned Antigone to be buried alive for having performed funeral rites over Polynices. Cricket : Crickets in a house presage good fortune. (England, cf. Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 112), but if they suddenly forsake the house, it is a sign of an approaching death or disaster. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 19, quoting Sir W. Jardine). To kill a cricket is extremely unlucky. 66 ; A DICTIONARY OF Criminal : The spirits of executed criminals are said to become vampires, Brahmadaitvas and other kinds of malevolent ghosts. Crocodile : Crocodiles are said to be reincarnations of murdered Brahmans, and are therefore duly respected (cf. Ellis, Ewe-speaking Peoples , p. 71). Crocodiles are said to weep over a person's head after they have devoured the body, and then eat the head. They moan and sigh like a person in distress in order to allure passers-by, and then make them their prey. Humming birds and lapwings will fearlessly enter the crocodiles' mouth, and the creatures will never injure them, because they pick their teeth. Cronus : Gr. Myth. A Titan who dethroned his father and was in turn dethroned by his son Zeus. He was a god of harvest and was identified by the Romans with Saturn. Crop : Vide Moon , Spindle. Cross-eye : To meet a cross-eyed person of the opposite sex is lucky. Cross Roads : Cross roads are the favourite meeting places of witches from all parts of the world. In Cornwall cross roads are avoided after nightfall. (. Folklore Journal , v, 218.) If you go to a cross road between eleven and twelve o'clock on Christmas day and listen, you will hear what most concerns you for the coming year (Ragner). “ At cross roads, or in the neighbourhood of cemeteries, an animated corpse often lurks watching for some unwary traveller whom it may be able to slay and eat." (Ralston, Folk Tales of the Russians , p. 311.) Crow : Many crows in the early morning foretell a gale (Tibet. — -Waddell, p. 135), if they thereby gape at the sun, the weather will be hot and dry ; but if they stalk at nightfall into water, rain is at hand. When crows forsake a wood in a flock, it is a sign of a famine. A crow appearing to one on the left hand side is a good omen (Hazlitt, p. 51), or it indicates some impending evil to the person ; flying over a house and croaking thrice, it foretells evil at hand to someone of the inmates. If a crow flutters about the window and caws or sits down (Bohemia), it forebodes a death. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 67 The croaking of a crow indicates rain (Hazlitt, p. 51.). “ One crow— sorrow, Two crows — mirth, Three crows — wedding, Four crows — birth.” — Maryland (Knortz, p. 134). A crow cawing on the chimney gives warning of a death in the family. (Macedonia. — Abbott, p. 108.) Several crows fluttered about the head of Cicero on the day he was murdered by Popilius Laenas ; one of them even made its way into his chamber, and pulled away the bedclothes.— Macaulay : History of St. Hilda, p. 176. cf. Blackbird, Raven. Crucifix : Evil spirits are afraid of the crucifix ; it is there- fore a powerful charm against them. ( Christian Countries.) In Serbia if a pregnant woman kisses the crucifix her child will be epileptic. (Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. I, p. 6x7.) cf. Rosary, Beads, Qor'an, Prayer Book. Cruelty : The spirits of those who have been cruel during their lifetime, can find no peace in death, but must return to earth as ghosts Crumb : The crumbs saved up on three Christmas Eves are good to give as a physic to one who is disappointed (Ragner). Crust : The first crust from a loaf of bread must not be given away, but should be eaten at home ; if this is not done, you will be in need (Bohemia). Crying : If a sick person cries, it is a sign that he will recover from his illness. (Wuttke, p. 43 ; Wolf, Beitrdge, Yol. II, p. 368.) One must not cry before at least three hours have passed since the death of a person, otherwise the hell- hounds may be attracted by the noise and devour the soul before it has had time to reach the throne of God. (Lady Wilde, pp. 118, 214.) Crystal : Crystal induces visions, promotes sleep and ensures pleasant dreams. It is dedicated to the moon ; in metal- lurgy it stands for silver. Cuckold : Vide Mantle, Boar’s Head, Drinking Horn. Cuckoo : The same superstition as with the swallow (q.v.) is prevalent in Silesia, Bavaria, Mark and Swabia. If you hear the first cuckoo in spring, you will have luck all the year round ( Great Britain, Bohemia). 68 A DICTIONARY OF In Celtic superstition the cuckoo is said to have its winter dwelling underground. (Campbell, Sup. of Scot. Highl., p. 5.) Cuckoos lay their eggs in other birds’ nests. [Alsace. — Lambs, p. 31'.) If you hear a cuckoo in your dream, your sweetheart will prove to be a coquette. A cuckoo calling on the top of a house or on the chimney presages death. (Lady Wilde, p. 318 ; Campbell, op. cit., p. 35.) Cuichi supai : The Indians of Ecuador call the rainbow (q.v.) by this name. It is said to be a demon that makes women pregnant. (Karsten, Ind. Trib. Ecuad., p. 70.). cf. Incubus, Succubus, Jhoting, Tululu Supai. Cup : Vide Accidental upsetting of a cup. Cupid : Rom. Myth. The god of love. He is represented as a little naked boy with bow and arrows. He shoots people with his darts and they immediately fall love-sick. If you dream of Cupid breaking his dart, your love will change ; but if he breaks his bow, you will remain a spinster all your life. cf. Kama, Venus. Curetes : Gr. Myth. Earth-born demons, attendants upon Rhea, who, when she gave the infant Zeus into their charge, executed a wild dance and thus concealed the child’s presence from Cronus (q.v.). Curing diseases by transferring them to other things : See E. B. Tylor, Primitive Culture, Vol. II, pp. 136 etc. ; Dalyell, Dark. Sup., pp. 105-m ; Frazer, G.B., Vol. Ill, pp. 13 sqq., 26 sqq. ; Black, Folk Medicine, pp. 34-48- Curse : The curse of a dying man, of a Brahmin {Hindus), or that of a beggar {Jews of Byelostock and Kiev) is effective. Cuttlefish : Cuttlefish with their many legs, swimming on the top of the water and striving to be above the waves presage a storm. (Brand, Observations, Vol. Ill, p. 291.) Cwn y Wybr : The Welsh name for “ dogs that haunt the air.” Cybele : The great nature goddess of the ancient people of Anatolia. She was the deification of the earth as sustaining and reproducing the wild life of nature. She was thought to haunt mountains and forest fastnesses, accompanied by trains of wild attendants bearing torches and dancing to music. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 69 Cyclops : Class. Myth. One of a race of giants having but one eye in the middle of the forehead, fabled to inhabit Sicily, and in later traditions supposed to assist in the workshops of Hephaestus (Vulcan) under Mt. Etna. According to Homer, they were shepherds. Cycnus : Gr. Myth. Son of Stenelus, king of Liguria, and friend of Phaeton. He was changed into a swan and placed among the stars. Cyhiraeth : In Wales it is a kind of dreadful and doleful moan in the night proceeding from an invisible source. It is a “ spectral female used to be oftener heard than seen ; but her blood-freezing shriek was as a rule to be heard when she came to a cross road or to water, in which she splashed with her hands. . . . These cries meant the approaching death of the hearer’s husband, wife, or child as the case might be ; but if the scream was inarticulate it was reckoned probable that the hearer himself was the person foremourned.” (Rhys, C.F., p. 453 ; Bassett, p. 317.) cf. Death Warnings, Death Omens. D Daedalus : Class. Myth. An Athenian architect, who built the Labyrinth of Crete. He was cast into the Labyrinth, but escaped with his son Icarus, by flying through the air with artificial wings, of which he was the inventor. Daedalus reached Sicily in safety, but his son Icarus flew too near the sun ; the wax on the wings melted, he fell and was drowned in the sea. Dagan : Bahyl. Myth. God of the earth. He was identified with Bel (q.v.) and was worshipped as early as the ninth century b.c. Dagda : Celtic Myth. A Gaelic god, perhaps of earth, famous as a warrior, harpist and eater of porridge. He was king of the Tuatha de Danann (q.v.) after their defeat by the Milesians. Dagger : To dream of daggers denotes hot contest with others. Daikoku : Jap. Myth. A god of luck (q.v.), who stands on a bale of rice and is accompanied by a rat. Daini : In Bengal this word signifies a witch. The line of demarcation between a Daini and a Dakini is extremely fine (see Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 95). A DICTIONARY OF 70 Daitya : Hindu Myth. Titans, descendants of Diti by Kasyapa. A race of demons and giants who warred against the gods and interfered with sacrifices. They were in turn victorious and vanquished. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 76.) In later Indian mythology, they were evil beings and deadly foes of the gods. Dakini : In Indian superstition it is a female spirit of a malicious nature. Dakinis are of two kinds : human and ghostly. Girls born on the second, seventh and twelfth day of a month are human dakinis. They cause the death of their husbands, and their evil eye injures all things and individuals that come under its Influence. Women who die in childbirth become dakinis. A ghostly dakini dresses in fine clothes, and decks her person with ornaments ; but she does not cover her back, which is horrible. It is so frightful that anyone happening to see it dies of horror. They trouble only women. They are said to live with men who gradually become emaciated, and ultimately die within about six months. They cause cattle to yield blood instead of milk. They live upon the flesh of corpses, can assume any form, or swell or shrink their body at will ; their feet are reversed. They haunt trees, cemeteries, deserted tanks, cross roads, mines and other desolate places. (Jackson, F.L.N., VoL I, p. 152 ] Ethnologie du Bengale , p. 95). Damkina : Assyro-Babyl. Myth. Consort of Ea. Danae ; Gr. Myth. Daughter of Acrisius, king of Argos, and mother of Perseus by Zeus. Danaides : Gr. Myth. They were the fifty daughters of Danaiis. All of them except one killed their husbands on the night of their marriage. As a punishment they were condemned to fill a barrel without bottom with water. Danaiis : Gr. Myth. A mythological personage, king of Egypt and later, of Argos ; father of the Danaides. Danava : Indian Myth. An ancient name for demons. Dancing : Witches are very fond of this sport ; they try to find many other votaries. Goblins and Elves are also addicted to it. (Strackerjan, VoL I, pp. 312, 316, 398.) To dream of dancing denotes poverty, grief and despair after great enjoyment. Dando : In Cornwall it is a ghost who rides about accompanied by his hounds. (Hunt, Pop. Rom p. 223.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 7 1 Dano : A kind of Indian demon who is nowadays hardly to be distinguished from the Bir. (Crooice, PJ?./., Vol. I, P- 254-) Danu : Celt. Myth. The Gaelic mother of the gods, cognate with the Cymric goddess Don. She is represented as the ancestress of the forces of knowledge and light, the Tnatha De Danann, who overcame the powers of darkness, the Fomors. Darbas : “ Tearers ” ; Rakshasas and other destructive demons. Darkness : Spirits can only appear in the dark. If you dream of losing your way in the dark, you will be blinded by some passion and have much trouble. Dasim : Muham. Myth. A son of Iblis, a jinn, who causes hatred between husband and wife. (Jew. Enc Vol. IV, ?. 521.) Davy Jones : In sailors’ superstition, it is a malignant spirit having power over the sea ; hence the sea itself is called Davy Jones’s Locker. Dead Body : It is unlucky to pass a dead body lying on the ground, [Tibet. — Waddell, p. 135.) Vide Corpse. Death : Death is caused by the soul leaving the material body which served as a resting place for the soul ; it is merely a transitory stage from one form to another. Immediately after the death of someone in the house, all those who are sleeping must be awakened, otherwise it would be their sleep of death. (East Prussia, Silesia.— WuTTKE, p. 209.) To dream of death denotes happiness and long life. Vide Pigeon, Tide, Lock. Death Omens : Death is foretold by the ringing of a bell that cannot otherwise be accounted for. (Southern Ohio.) A cow lowing after midnight foretells a death. _ If a doctor is called on a Friday, the patient will surely die. (Cambridge, Mass.) If you meet a funeral train, it is a sign of death. (Prince Edward Islands.) Lie down on the table and you will die within a year. (Mattawamkeag, Me.) Ringing in the ears is a sign of death. (U.S.A.) Three chairs placed accidentally in a row means death. (Ohio.) If sparks are accidentally kept overnight, it is a sign of death. (Cumberland, Me.) 72 A DICTIONARY OF To hold a lamp over a sleeping person causes death (. Massachusetts .) To knock on the door and receive no answer is a sign of death. ( Virginia and Englewood, IU.) A film of tallow shot from the top of a lighted candle gives warning to the house of an approaching death. {Great Britain .) To imagine that you hear someone calling you by your name soon after dusk, is an omen of death. [India.) The dismal moaning of a dog prognosticates a death in the near future. Dogs give warning of death by scratching on the floor of the house. {Great Britain .) Pictures falling off the wall without anyone touching them is a sign of death {Great Britain.) (For other forms of Death Omens see Lean’s Collectanea , Vol. II, pp. 548-580 ; Bergen, Current Superstitions , pp. 125-130.) Vide Coffin , Cock, Change of Address , Hoop , Salt , Comet, Bittern , Broom , Dog , Picture, Rat , Raven , Pleiades , Fir tree, Lamb , Cinder, Candle, Cricket, Lo%tse, Star, Winding Sheet , Yellow Light, Bedclothes, Clothes, Bat, Bay tree, Bedstead, Bee, Building, Crow, Eye, Egg, God- mother, Hand , Knock, Match, Mayflower, Meteor, Mirror, Mouse, Nail, Needle, Owl, Pigeon , Salt, Shoe, Smell , Smile, Sweeping, Will, Turpentine , Umbrella, Wedding ring, Whistle, Worm, Menstruation, Portrait, Panel , Bird, Cuckoo, Goose, Breeze, Knocking, Water, Blood, Reed, Butterfly. Death Warnings : In Great Britain : Vide Banshee, Corpse- Candles, Bodachun Dun, Edgewell Oak, Aderyn y Corph, Doubles, Gwrachy Rhibyn , St. John's Eve, W ag-at~the-W a , Cyhiraeth. In France : Vide Melusine , ■ In Germany : Several princes of Germany have their special warning-givers of death. In some it is the roaring of a lion, in others it is the howling of a dog ; in some it is the tolling of a bell, or the striking of a clock at an unusual time, in others it is a bustling noise about the castle. Vide White Lady, Habergeis , Ahnfrau . Among the Wends : Vide Bozaloshtsh. In Austria : Vide Habsburg. In Bohemia : Vide Smrtnice . SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 73 “ Spectrum foemineum vestitu lugubri apparere solet in arce quandam illustris families, antequam una ex conjugibus dominorum illorum e vita decedat.” — Delrio : Disquisitiones Magicce , p. 592 In Beyrout : Vide Weeping Chamber. (Other forms of death warnings are given under separate headings.) Death Rattle : A particular kind of noise made in respiring by a person in the extremity of sickness ; it is considered an omen of death. (Hazlitt, p. 171.) Death-watch : The tapping made by a small beetle, called a death-watch, is said to be a warning of death to someone in the house. (Owen, p. 325 ; Brand, Observations , Vol. Ill, p. 225.) December : “ December’s frost and January’s flood Never boded the husbandman’s good.” (Lean, Vol. I, p. 367, quoting Times , Jan. 1, 1884.) Vide Turquoise , Ruby . Decuma : Rom. Myth. One of the three goddesses of Fate ; she is identical with Lachesis. Deer : Cherokee hunters ask pardon of the deer they kill. If they failed to do so, the chief of the deer tribe would track the hunter and put the spirit of rheumatism into him. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. II, p. 406.) Defilement : St. Susan preserves from defilement. Deformity : In Japan the birth of a deformed child is attri- buted to some great sin of the parents (Griffis, M.E., p. 472) ; or in India to the non-fulfilment of the mothers’ wishes (Jolly, Medicin , Grundr . d. Indo-Arisch. Phil., p. 52, quoted in Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 81, n. 1 ; cf. Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 3). Deianira : Gr. Myth. Wife of Hercules, whose death she unwittingly caused. Vide Nessus. Deino ; Gr, Myth. One of the Greece. Delhan : Muham, Myth. A demoniacal being of Arab super- stition, who inhabits the islands of the seas ; it has the form of a man and rides an ostrich. It eats the flesh of men, whom the sea casts on the shore from wrecks. (Lane, AS.MJL, p. 44.) Delphian Oracle : Gr. Relig. The most famous oracle in the world. The oracles were given forth by a priestess, the Pythia, who seated herself upon a golden tripod above a chasm, whence issued mephitic vapours. A DICTIONARY OF 74 Demeter : Gr. Myth. She is identified with Ceres of the Romans. Demi-Gods : The heroes of ancient mythology, sons of mortals and gods or goddesses, who raised themselves to the standard of gods by their acts of bravery, are usually designated by this name ; thus Hercules, Achilles, Castor and Pollux, etc.., are all considered as demi-gods. Demon : In ancient Greek mythology Safyiwv or demon was a supernatural being of a nature intermediate between that of gods and men. In popular superstition it means a malignant spirit of a superhuman nature. “The three special characteristics of medieval demons were horns, hoofs . . . and tails.’’ — -Weight, Hist. Caricat. (1865). Deo : Hindu Folklore. Originally this term was applied to the thirty-three great divinities. “Now the term represents a vague class of the demon-ogre family. The Deo is a cannibal, and were he not exceedingly stupid could do much harm.” (Crooke, P.R.I., Yol. I, p. 253.) Tempests are often caused by him ( Ethnologie du Bengale, p. xoi.) Deodand : “ Given to God.” In Old English law not only every animal which killed a man, but every instrument or tree or cart-wheel, etc. which caused the death of a man was deodand. (cf. R. Douglas, China, 4th ed., p. 83). “ Omnia que movent ad mortem sunt Deodanda.” — Bracton. -Desert: All deserts are a resort of Bhfit. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 278, quoting Henderson, Folklore of Northern Countries, p. 278 etc. ) Desert Goats : Amongst the Malays of the Lower Siamese States it is believed that if a desert goat fall over a cliff, it immediately licks itself whole. Accordingly, the tongue of a desert goat is carried as an amulet against falling, and is a sure cure for wounds caused by falling. Despoina : Gr. Myth. Persephone was often called by this name. Deucalion : Gr. Myth. A king of Pythia in Thessaly, son of Prometheus and Pyrrha. He is the Noah of Greek myth- ology. During the inundation, Deucalion and Pyrrha took refuge in a barge which stopped on Mt. Parnasse. They alone were the sole survivors of the flood. They repopulated the world by throwing stones behind them ; each stone thrown by Deucalion became a man and each thrown by Pyrrha a woman. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 75 Deva : (Nom. Devas — Deus, from the root Div, to shine.) Hindu Myth. God. The gods are spoken of as thirty- three in number ; eleven for each of the three worlds. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 84 ; Macdonnel, Vedic Mythology.) Devala : Hindu Myth. Music personified as a female. Devas : Zoroastrianism. The spirits of evil. Devata : Hindu Myth. A divine being or god. The name “ Devata ” includes the gods in general or, as most frequently used, the whole body of inferior gods. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 85.) Devi : Hindu Relig. The consort of Siva and daughter of Himavat (Himalaya Mountains).. She is the Sakti or female energy of Siva, and is considered either as a bene- ficent or as a malignant deity. In the former she is called Devi “goddess,” Gauri “ the yellow or brilliant,” Uma “ light,” Parvati “ the mountaineer,” etc., in the latter, Durga, Kali, Chandi. Devil : In Jewish and Christian theology it is the popular appellation of the supreme spirit of evil, the tempter and spiritual enemy of mankind, the foe of God and holiness. To dream of the devil denotes trouble ; if he appears in fire, some immediate misfortune will befall you, if he vanishes in smoke, expect returning calm. Dhatri : Hindu Myth. “ Maker, Creator.” A deity of no very defined powers and functions ; he is described as operating in the production of life and preservation of health. He promotes generation, brings about matrimony, presides over domestic life, cures diseases and heals broken bones. He is said to have “ formed the sun, moon, sky, earth, air and heaven.” (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 90.) Diamond ; The diamond is an emblem of innocence. It is dedicated to April and the sun. In the Zodiac it stands for Virgo ; in Christian art, for invulnerable faith. . Diamond produces somnambulism and promotes spiritual ecstasy. Diana : Rom. Myth. An ancient Italian goddess whose wor- ship was early widespread throughout the Peninsula. She is represented, like Artemis, as a huntress. Diancecht : Celt. Myth. A Gaelic god of medicine. Diarmaid : Celt. Myth. He was noted for his beauty spot which was always kept covered up with his cap, for if any woman chanced to see it, she would instantly fall in love with him. 76 A DICTIONARY OF Diarmait O’Duibhne : According to a Gaelic legend he is said to have eloped with Finn’s betrothed. Dickepoten : In the provinces of Mark and Lower Saxony the Jack-o’-Lantem (q.v.) is designated by this name. Dictyna : The Cretan goddess Britomartia, probably a local counterpart of Artemis. Digestion : Topaz promotes digestion. Dimple : Dimples are the impressions of God’s fingers, hence a dimple on the chin is considered lucky ( Great Britain). " Dimple in chin Devil within.” — Chestertown, Md. (Bergen, C.S., p. 32). Dindymene : Gr. Myth. The Great Mother (q.v.) was so called from Mt. Dindimus. Vide Agdistis. Dionea : Class. Myth. A nymph, daughter of Uranus and the Earth, or of Oceanus and Tethys. She was loved by Zeus, and became the mother of Venus. Dionysos ; Gr. Myth. The god of wine and riotous merriment. The Romans identified him with Bacchus. Dioscuri : Class. Myth. The twins Castor and Pollux. They were typically represented as horsemen and were patrons of games and equestrian exercise. Castor alone was mortal. Vide Asvins, Leda , Pollux. Dirce : Gr. Myth. The second wife of Lycus. Antiope’s sons tied her to a wild bull which dragged her about until she died. After her death she was changed into a fountain by Bacchus, cf. Pirene. Dirge : A music or song of a mournful character to accompany funeral or memorial rites. Dis : Rom. Myth. Pluto was so called by the Romans. Disappointment : Vide Feast , Foot, Pig , Scissors , Sneeze , Song. Disease ; Diseases are superstitiously believed to be caused by various demons. (For authorities see under separate headings.) cf. Jew . Enc., Vol. IV, p. 517 ; Roth, Super- stition, Magic and Religion in North Queensland ; Ethnolog . Bulletin , No. 5, Brisbane, 1903, §116; Taplin, The Nar- rinyeri , pp. 62 seq. ; Howitt, Native Tribes , pp. 356, 358 ; Ellis, Yoruba-speaking Peoples , pp. 113 seq.) The Dyaks of Borneo are firm believers in diseases being caused by spirits. (St. John, Far East , Vol. I, p. 217 ; Tylor, P.C., Vol. II, p. 134.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 77 Bread consecrated on St. Blaise’s day (3rd February) cures all cattle’s diseases. St. Rooke cures diseases, because he had a sore ; St. Sebastian, because he was martyred with arrows and St. Blaise cures all children’s diseases. Vide Bear, Blood, Brushwood, Claw. Distaff : In Hungaria if a young married woman takes her distaff and her needle case with her to her husband’s home, she will give birth to baby girls only. (Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. I, p. 551, quoting V. Czaplovics Gemalde von Un-gam.) Diti : Hindu Myth. A goddess, daughter of Daksha, wife of Kasyapa and mother of the Daityas. (Dowson, H.C.D., P- 93-) Div : Turkish Folklore. A giant, a demon, a fiend, of a gigantic size, and ugly. (Redhouse, Turkish-English Lexicon , p. 940 ; Kunos, TILT.) Dive zeny : “ Wild women ” ; female forest-spirits of Bohemian folklore. Divining Petrel : A kind of sea-bird, considered by sailors as extremely unlucky to kill. cf. Albatross, Petrel , Mother Carey's Chickens . Divining Rod : A forked hazel rod suspended between the balls of the thumb was, at one time, supposed to indicate the presence of water springs and precious metals by inclining towards the earth., beneath which these are to be found. Dobhar-Chu ; (pronounced dooar, dour). The Celtic name for a Water Dog (q.v.). Dobrochot : A Russian pet-name for a demon, especially the domestic spirit. Doctor : If you call a doctor on a Friday, the patient will die ( Cambridge , Mass.) Dog : Dogs are supposed to see spirits, when human beings cannot ; thus in Old Scandinavia, the dogs could see Hela, the death goddess, moving about. (Grimm, DM., p. 632.) The Esquimaux lay a dog's head in a child's grave, in order that the dog may guide the infant to the land of souls. (Cranz : Groniand .) When dogs wallow in the dust expect foul weather. (Brand, Observations , Vol. Ill, p. 189.) The howling of a dog at night near a house forebodes the death of an inmate. (Owen, p. 304 ; Lawson, p. 328 ; 78 A DICTIONARY OF le Braz, VoL I, p. 7 ; Cambry, Voyage dans le Finisiere , VoL I, p. 71 ; Dalyell, p. 503 ; Hazlitt, p. 184 ; F.L.J. , 1883, PP* 217> 355). or the presence of spirits in the air (St. John, Leg. Chr . East, p. 193.) Dogs give warning of death by scratching on the floor of the house. (Great Britain, India,) If a black and white spotted dog crosses your path when you are on your way to some business, you are sure to have success (Great Britain), or you will have a disap- pointment (India). A dog running between two friends indicates the end of the friendship (Alsace, Lambs, p. 29). A dog coming and staying in your house, is an omen of wealth (China — Doolittle, Yol. II, p, 328). Sailors on the sea do not mention dogs by their name. (Bassett, pp. 125, 279.) If a dog howls the night before Christmas, it will go mad within the year. (Ragner.) Among the Zulus it is a very bad omen for a dog to climb on the roof of a hut. (Haggard, Nada the Lily, pp. 36, 38) ; among the Oraons, see Sarat Chandra Roy, The Oraons of Chota Nagpur, p. 273 ; Frazer, Folklore in the Old Testament, Vol. Ill, p. 264, quoted in Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 125. “ Cane proviso funere disce mori.” R. Keuchen, Crepundia, 115. Capitolinus tells us that the death of Maximinus was presaged by the howling of dogs. Pausanias says, the dogs broke into a fierce howl just before the overthrow of the Messenians. Virgil says the same thing occurred just before the battle of Pharsalia. Vide Rat, Owl, Fire, Ulcer, Madness , Fisherman, Dog’s Blood : The Chinese say that the blood of a dog will reveal a person who has rendered himself invisible (!) Dolphin : Dolphins pursuing one another in fair and calm weather, foreshow wind ; but if they thus play when the seas are rough and troubled, it is a sign of fair and calm weather to ensue, (Brand, Observations , Vol. Ill, p. 241 ; Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 114.) Dolya : Slav. Myth. A personification of the good or the evil fortune of an individual ; the Dolya accompanies the person throughout his life. (Die. Rel. Eth., Vol. IV, p. 625.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 79 Domovoy : In Slavic folklore it is a domestic spirit. Every house has its domovoy , who lives with his wife and family* Generally speaking, he is of a merry disposition, cf. Brownie , Nisse, Gardsvor . Don: Celt. Myth. A Cymric goddess, ancestress of gods. Donaufiirst : An Austrian water-spirit who asks all who come to the river what they wish most, and then ducks them in the river where is all and everything. (Simrock, DM,, p. 150 ; Bassett, p. 161.) Door : Maras (q.v.) and other evil spirits never come in through doors. If doors open themselves without any apparent cause, it is a sign that a ghost has just entered. (Silesia, Lower Saxony.— W uttke, p. 223 ; Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 91.) In Scotland, doors and windows are opened at the moment anyone is dying in the house. (Gregor, p. 206 ; Frazer, “ Death and Burial Customs, Scotland/5" Folklore Journal , Vol. III, p. 282.) Vide Slamming , Window. Dotterels : “ When dotterels do first appear, It shows that frost is very near ; But when that dotterels do go. Then you may look out for heavy snow/' — Salisbury Sayings . Double Fruits : If fruits which are growing double, be divided and eaten by two persons, they are sure to have a fulfil- ment of their desires. (Great Britain , India.) ' If a pregnant woman partake of such fruit, she will give birth to twins. (Mecklenburg. — Wuttke, p. 193 ; India ; Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 40 ; cf. Karsten, Indian Tribes of Equador, p. 74 ; Ethnologic du Bengale , p. 81, n. 2.) Doubles : The apparition of a living person visible either to himself or to some other person and superstitiously believed to foretell a great calamity or death. The appearance of a double or * fetch 5 has ever been held ... to signify approaching death/' — Proctor, Light Sc. f ■ ;//■ y:; Doubt : If one is in doubt he should count the number of buttons on his coat; if they are of an even number, he is right ; if of an odd number, wrong. (Jews of Bohemia.) St. Catherine resolves doubts. 80 A DICTIONARY OF Dove : In Popavan doves are immune from attacks or slaughter, as they are supposed to be inspired by departed souls (Tylor, P.C. , Vol. II, p. 6) ; sometimes they are said to be animated by the souls of lovers [India), Witches cannot assume the form of doves, (cf. St. Mark , i, 10 ; St. John , i, 32, 33 ; St. Matthew , iii, 16). According to a legend, doves were the messengers of Venus. In sailors' superstition, doves are birds of good omen. (Bassett, p. 276.) cf. Swallow , Lamb. Dragon : A mythical monster, represented as a large and terrible reptile with strong claws like a beast or bird of prey and a scaly skin. It is generally represented with wings and sometimes as breathing out fire. The dragon was consecrated to Minerva, goddess of sagacity and wisdom, in order to symbolise that wisdom is ever-awake. In Corea it “ is the embodiment of all forces of motion, change and power for offence and defence in animal life, fin, wing, tusk, horn, claws, with the mysterious attributes of the serpent." (Griffis, Corea , p. 301.) It can trans- form itself and fly away. In China the dragon is not a myth, but a real mysterious animal with all the qualities attributed to it by the imagination of the Coreans. (De Groot, Rel. Sys. Chin.) In modern superstition there are four dragon kings, each bearing rule over one of the four seas, which form the border of the habitable earth. A peculiar description of pearl, possessing magic virtues, is said to be carried by the dragon upon its forehead. (Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 153.) Dragons must be killed by one blow only. (Kunos, T.F.T., pp. 139, 276, 304, etc.) A black cock when it is seven years old, lays an egg, from which a dragon comes out. " It has the body of a snake, has four feet and devours human beings. (Alpen- burg, Mythen , p. 376; Wuttke, p. 235.) In Teutonic literature the favourite food of the dragon is said to have been a virgin. Dragon is another name of the Devil, and in Christian legends it is the personification of the spirit of evil. Vide Sturgeon , Treasure. Dream : According to some people, e.g., the Indians of North America, dreams are caused by the soul leaving the body during sleep and wandering over strange lands. The Karens say that dreams are what the Id (soul) has seen on its journey. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 81 Generally speaking, dreams are interpreted by con- traries in Japan (Griffis, M.E., p. 472, and in India) ; thus, it is iucky to dream of being murdered and unlucky to dream of finding money. If you dream the same dream three times in succession, it is sure to be fulfilled. (U.S.A. — Knortz, p. 43.) It is lucky to forget your dreams of the previous night. ( Great Britain, India.) If one has a bad dream which it is desired to forget on waking in the morning, the advice is given to spit three times in order that the desired effect may be produced. (Mittheilungen der Gesellschaft fur Jiidische Volkskunde, X, 114 ; jew. Enc., Vol. XI, p. 599.) St. Christopher protects from bad dreams. Historic Dreams : Jacob had an historic dream on his way to Haran (Gen. xxviii. 12-15). Joseph, son of Jacob, had an historic dream revealing to him his future greatness {Gen. xxxvii. 5-10). Daniel had an historic dream about four beasts which indicated four kingdoms {Dan. vii.). Pharaoh’s butler and baker had warning dreams, one being prevised thereby of his restoration to favour, and the other wrarned of his execution [Gen. xl. 5-23). Nebuchadnezzar had an historic dream which Daniel explained {Dan. ii. 1, 31, 45). Abimelech, King of Gerar, was warned by a dream that Sarah was Abra- ham’s wife and not his sister {Gen. xx. 3-16.) Joseph, husband of Mary, was warned by a dream to flee from Judea ; and when Herod was dead, he was warned again by a dream to “ turn aside into the parts of Galilee ” {Matt. ii. 13, 19, 22). In the Old Testament Pharaoh had a warning dream of a famine which he was able to provide against {Gen. xli. 15-36). For the interpretation of dreams see under different headings. Drebkuls : The Lettish equivalent of Poseidon, the Earth- Shaker. Dress : If a girl breaks the needle (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 34) or pricks her finger while making a new dress, it is an omen that she will be kissed wearing that particular dress. If you dream of being dressed in gay dresses, you will be blessed with good health. It is considered lucky to put on any article of dress, especially stockings, inside out ; but this should not be done on purpose, neither should it be changed (Chambers, Book of Days, Vol. II, p. 321 ; Abbott, p. 144.) A DICTIONARY OF 82 Drink : Drinks should not be stirred with a knife, as this will cause stomach-aches. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 49.) If you dream you are drinking something cold, it is a good omen ; but if something hot, you will have a severe illness. Vide Amethyst. Drinking Horn : King Arthur had a horn, from which no one could drink who was either unchaste or unfaithful. The Cuckold’s Horn, as this was called, was brought to King Arthur’s court by a mysterious boy -who also brought the Mantle (q.v.) ; it gave warning of infidelity inasmuch as no one unfaithful in love or “ unleal ” to his liege lord could drink therefrom without spilling the liquor. The Coupe enchantee of the French possessed a similar property, cf. Brawn’s Head , Mantle. Drowning : It is caused by water-nixies who keep the souls of the drowned inside pots. These souls must become water-nixies themselves, unless the pots are turned over by some human being. (Wolf, Beitrage, Vol. II, pp. 293, 297.) The body of a drowned sailor is preserved as long as he would have lived had he not been drowned. (M elusine , Vol II, Col. 253.) The body of a drowned person may be located by floating some straw, which will come to rest above the spot where the body lies (Haddon, in Folklore , IV, p. 360) ; or by floating a loaf of bread at the spot where the person fell into the water ; the bread will come to rest and begin to turn round where the body lies submerged (Gregor, p. 208.). Sometimes a luminous light is perceived at the exact spot where the body of a drowned person lies (Frazer, in Folklore Journal , III, p. 281 ; Bassett, p. 3110- Idiots cannot be drowned because it is the weight of the brain that drags a person down to the bottom of the water ; it is the same with persons who have a mole mark above their mouth (Goodrich-FreeR in Folklore, XIII, p. 61). When people drown at sea, a water-sprite appears in the shape of a headless old man. (Grimm, Teut. Myth., Vol. I, p. 491.) \\ here a person has been drowned, a button from his waistcoat, mounted on a piece of wood, will indicate the spot where the body lies, by ceasing to float on its arrival thither. (Hazlitt, p. 193.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 83 Drujnasu: “Corpse-fiend”; in the A vesta it is the veritable incarnation of pollution and contagion arising from decomposition of a dead body. Drunkard : Vide Song, Splashing. Dryad : Certain kinds of nymphs. In Classical Mythology, she was a wood-nymph, or more correctly, a nymph whose life was bound up with that of a tree. Dullahan : Irish lore : A malicious sullen spirit or goblin. Dumb : Children if, while eating, you strike anything with vour chopsticks, you will be dumb ! {Japan. — Griffis, "M.E., p. 470.) Vide Wolf. Dumu-zi : “ Child of life.” A Babylonian god of the solar type. Dumu-zi-zuab ■ Babyl. Myth. A deity of a local character. Nebo (q.v.) appears under this form, which describes him as a son of the “ deep.” Dung : Dung is considered offensive to ghosts. In India, cow-dung is a panacea for all evils ; it cures various diseases, purifies everything and serves many other purposes. (Day, Folktales of Bengal ; Ethnologie dii Bengali, p. 133 ; Larousse, Grande Die. du XlXe Siecle, Vol. XIV, p. 1255b.) Horse-dung placed before, a house, or inside the door brings good luck. ( Great Britain.) Dun-shagga : Babyl. Myth. A deity of a local character. Durga : Hindu Myth. Devi (q.v.) in her malignant form is known as Durga “ the inaccessible.” She is represented as a yellow woman riding a tiger. Dusou : The Dusou or Giavanel of the Swiss peasants is a big supernatural bird of the owl family which speaks to belated travellers and says : Doumlou (donne-le-moi — give it to me). Woe betide the man who answers in the affirmative. (Jalla, Leg. Vand., p. 28.) Dutchman, Flying : Vide Flying Dutchman. Dvorvoy : A Russian household spirit who lives in the yard. Dwarf : Tent. Folklore. Diminutive old men with large heads and long, white beards. They shunned the light of day, for the sun’s rays would transform them into stones. They became invisible at will and their principal occupa- tion was smith’s work. For a man to meet a female dwarf (a person of a short stature) and for a woman to meet a male one, is con- sidered lucky. [Great Britain, India, Canada.) A DICTIONARY OF 84 Dyaks : Vide Head-hunting. Dyaus : In Vedic mythology : (i) heaven ; (ii) the father of the gods ; hence also called Dyaus-pitri. Dying : St. Barbara relieves the dying. Dylan : Celtic Myth. A Cymric sea-god, son of Arianrod. E Ea : Assyro-Babl. Myth. A deity belonging to the supreme triad. He was god of the watery element, giver of arts and sciences, healer of the sick, and according to one version, creator of mankind. His consort was Damkina. Vide Bel. Eabani : Babl. Myth. A wild man created by the goddess Aruru to withstand Gilgamesh, but is lured into the service of the latter by Ukhat. Eacus : Gr. Myth. Son of Zeus. He was celebrated for his justice, and, after his death, was made one of the three judges of the infernal regions ; the other two being Minos and Rhadamantos (q.v.). Eagle : The eagle is an emblem of royalty. Tarquinus Priscus was assured that he would be king of Rome by an eagle which swooped down upon him, took off his cap, rose in the air and let the cap fall again upon his head, : : Aristander assured Alexander of his victory over Darius in the battle of Arbela, by the flight of an eagle (Lloyd: Stratagems of Jerusalem, 290). Vide Mountain Climbing. Eagle-Owl : The screeching of the eagle-owl is especially considered as a portent of disaster. ( Macedonia , Abbott, p. xo8). Eagle-Stone : “ The pebble commonly called the aetites, or eagle-stone was found in the eagle’s nest, and ... the eggs could not be hatched without its assistance.” (Pennant, Zoology, 1776, Vol. I., p. 167.) Ear : Small ears indicate that a person is mean ; large ones show that he is generous. If the left ear tingles, it indicates that someone is talking evil of you ; if the right ear, someone is praising you. (Abbott, p. hi). The evil foreboded bv the tingling of the left ear may be averted by biting the little finger of the left hand:AV/YT:.y SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 85 A burning sensation of the ear indicates that someone is speaking of you ; thus <rLeft your lover, Right your mother.” — Gt. Britain. A burning sensation in the ear denotes that you will receive some news (Campbell, Sup . Scot . High., p. 258). cf. Bells in the ear , Death Omens . Earth Mother : Vide Great Mother . Earthquake : Among the North American Indians earth- quake is supposed to be caused by the movement of the earth-bearing tortoise; in Celebes, by the world-support- ing Hog rubbing himself against a tree ; ^ among the Caribs, because Mother Earth is dancing. The Elephant of the Hindus, the Bull of the Moslems, the Frog of the Mongol Lamas are creatures who carry the earth on their backs or heads and shake it when they stretch or shift. According to the Japanese, earthquakes are caused by huge whales creeping under the earth. In European mythology earthquakes owe their origin to the struggles of Loki (q.v.), Atlas (q.v.), Prometheus (q.v.), Drebkuls (q.v.), etc. Cattle give warning of an earthquake by their un- easiness. St. Christopher protects from the dangers of earth- quakes. " These are things An earthquake brings : At nine of the bell They sickness foretell ; At five and seven they betoken rain ; At four the sky is cleared thereby At six and eight comes wind again.” * — Lean, Vol. II. p. 325. If you dream of an earthquake, it warns you to be cautious. Easter : “ He who is bom on Easter mom Shall never know want, or care, or harm.” — Bergen : Cur . Sup. p. 21. Eating : In Congo if a king be looked at while eating, he will shortly die. (Elworthy, E: E., p. 426). It is a bad omen to dream of others eating* 86 A DICTIONARY OF In eating, if you miss your mouth and the victuals fall, it is very unlucky, and denotes approaching sickness. (Hazlitt, p/205). In Bengal strangers, especially women, are not allowed when a child is eating, for fear of the evil eye (cf. Ethnologie An Bengale, p. 85 and n. 2). Ebisu : Jap. Myth. A god of luck who is represented as carrying a fish. Eblis : English spelling for Iblis. Echidna : Gr. Myth. A monster, half maid and half serpent. She gave birth to other monsters, such as Cerberus, the Hydra, the Chimera, the Sphinx, the Dragons, the Gorgons, etc. Echinus : An echinus fastening itself on a ship’s keel, will arrest its motion like an anchor. (Bassett, p. 258). cf. Remora. Echo : Class. Myth. A nymph who, having displeased Juno, was changed into a rock and condemned to repeat the last words of anyone speaking to her. The Anglo Saxons thought that the echo was a spirit. (A. S. : wudu-mcere— echo; from wudu— wood, mcere—eli, spirit ; hence, wood-spirit.) Among the primitive races, the echo is believed to be an evil spirit. In Bengal the echo is a wood-spirit mocking people speaking to it, or in its presence. Eclipse : The eclipse of the sun and the moon is supposed by many people to be caused by a demon swallowing them {Ethnologie du Bengale, pp. 101, 102). The Irish and the Welsh run about beating kettles and pans during eclipses. (Hazlitt, p. 341). In Sumatra it is the sun devouring the moon, or vice versa. (Marsden, p. 194). Among the Caribs, it is caused by Maboya, a demon and a hater of all light, attempting to devour the sun or the moon. Among the Hindus, it is caused by the demons Rahu or Ketu devouring the sun or the moon. During an eclipse of the sun, poison falls from heaven ; therefore cattle must be herded, wells kept covered, and other precautions taken. ( Hessen , Westphalia.— Wuttkk, p. 145. cf. the Jewish and Indian superstitions. Ckooke, P.R.I., Vol, I. p, 21). Vide Rahu, Ketu, Maboya , Aracho. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 87 Edgewell Oak : This oak indicated the coming death of an inmate of Castle Dalhousie by the fall of one of its branches, cf. Death Warnings. (Dalyell, Dark. Sup., p. 504 ; Hazlitt, p. 205). Eel ; In Scottish superstition eels grow from horse hairs. (Campbell, Sup. Scot. High. p. 221). An eel skin tied round the leg is a cure for cramp. {India, Crooke, P.R.I. , Vol. II, p. 258 ; Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 115.) Eel fat is used as a magic ointment, and gives the power of seeing the fairies. (Hartland, Sc. F.T., p. 65.) The eel is a totem of the Munda Kols of Bengal, and of the Oraons, neither of whom will eat it. Egeria ; Class. Myth. A nymph endowed with prophetic powers. According to a Roman legend, Numa is said to have asked her advice in the forests of Aricia. Egg : If you eat a raw egg, fasting, on Christmas morning, you can carry heavy weights (Ragner). The tenth egg is always the largest. (Gt. Britain). If you steal an egg, you will have seven years of poverty. {Jews of Pinsk , Byelostok , Jew. Enc. Vol IX., p. 600). To find an extremely small hen's egg in the house, is an omen of an impending death. (Strackerjan, Vol. I., p- 25). Dragons come out of the egg of a black cock. (Alpen- burg, Mythen, p. 376 ; Wuttke, p. 235). It is unlucky to dream of eggs ( U.S.A . Knortz, p. 43). It will addle eggs if you bring them over running water. (IV. Lincoln, Lean, Vol. II., p. 149). Bringing eggs into a house after sunset brings ill luck m Eggshell : After you have eaten eggs, you should crush the shells ; you will never suffer from epilepsy if you take this precaution. (Gt. Britain ; Alsace, Lambs, p. 39). Ladies, take care ! If you step over an egg-shell, you will go mad. (Japan. Griffis, M.E., p. 469). It is lucky to find egg-shells ( Silesia , Wuttke, p. 96 ; Gt. Britain) . Ehlose : The guardian spirit of the Zulus, which may take many forms, and warn a person of an approaching danger. (Haggard, Nada the Lily, pp. ii, 22, 94, 99). Eirek : Scand. Myth. Eirek, journeying toward Paradise, came to a stone bridge guarded by a dragon ; he entered its maw, and found that he had arrived in a world of bliss. 88 A DICTIONARY OF Ekimmu : In Babylonian superstition it was the ghost of a man ; it represented a class of demons that infest the graves, cf. Ghoul. Elathan : Celt. Myth. A king of the Fomors, father of Bress. Elbow : Itching of the elbow denotes “ a strange bed” (Gt. Britain), or that you will sleep with a stranger. ( Boston , Mass.) If you accidentally knock your elbow, look out for a disappointment ; the evil, however, may be averted by knocking the other one. (Gt. Britain, India.) ' If someone is speaking deprecatingly of you in your absence, and you have the natural desire of punishing him by getting him drenched, just bite your elbow ! Easier said than done ! (Strackerjan, Vol. I., p. 31). Elder : If you burn elder on Christmas Eve, you will have revealed to you all the witches and sorcerers of the neigh- bourhood (Ragner). Elderberry Tree : The Danish women will never break off a branch of an elderberry tree without first apologizing to the spirit of the tree. Electra : Gr. Myth. A daughter of Agamemnon. Her role is to urge Orestes, her brother, to vengeance ; and, in Euripides’ version, actively to assist him. Vide Aegisthus. Elemental : They are nature spirits, such as those of land, water, fire, etc., and are personifications of natural phe- nomena, or are associated with particular departments of nature. Vjy-yyd''',:. “To rise to intercourse with these elemental spirits of nature was the highest aim of the philosopher.” — Lecky : Ration. (1865). Elephant : The Hindus believe that earthquakes are caused by the earth-bearing elephant shaking himself. In popular superstition elephants are supposed to celebrate religious rites. Elephants have no knees. (Hazlitt, p. 207). The flesh of an elephant is thought by the Ewe-speaking peoples of West Africa to make the eater strong. (Ellis, Ewe-speaking People, p. 99). Eleusinian Mysteries : The most famous religious mysteries of the world. riMp-ritP CVC Eleutheria : Gr. Myth. The goddess of liberty was called by this name. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 89 Elf ; The name of a class of supernatural beings supposed in early Teutonic belief to possess magical powers. They were of a dwarfish form, produced diseases of various kinds, stole children, caused nightmares, acted as succubi (q.v.) and incubi (q.v.), etc. Elian, St. : Leads to the discovery of lost goods. Elixir : In Alchemy, a preparation by the use of which it was sought to change metals into gold. It was a supposed drug or essence with the property of indefinitely pro- longing life. (Elixir Vitae). “ I know too where the Genii hid The jeweird cup of their King Jamshid With life's Elixir sparkling high." — Moore, Lalla Rookh. (1815). Ellefolk : The Elves of Danish superstition. Elle Woman: In Danish superstition it is the spirit of the elder tree. Elmo’s, St., Light : In Brittany it is called a wandering candle, and is a menace. It is sometimes a lost soul for whom prayers are asked. In Greece this light is a bad omen ; it is a demon which breaks masts, destroys ships and crew, and can be expelled only by the diabolical cries of a pig. According to the German sailors, it is a good omen when it mounts up, and the contrary is shown by its descent. It is the spirit of a defunct comrade. — (Bassett, p. 314). Elyll : In Welsh superstition it is a hairy, clumsy creature, and is the same as a brownie. Emerald ; Emerald promotes friendship and constancy of mind. If a serpent fixes its eye on an emerald, it goes blind. The emerald is an emblem of success in love. In the Zodiac it signifies Cancer ; it is dedicated to Mars and May ; in Metallurgy it means iron, and in Christian art it is given to St. John. Empusa : ^ Gr. Myth. A demoniac apparition that appeared sometimes at midday, sometimes at night. She had the power of continually changing her shape, but could be detected by the donkey's leg which was her constant attribute. Emu : Some Victorian tribes regard the fat of the emu as sacred. Anyone who threw away the fat or flesh was held accursed. (Frazer, G. B VoL III., p. 203). A DICTIONARY OF Enceladus : Gr. Myth. One of the most celebrated of the Titans who revolted against Zeus. He fled to Sicily, but was captured on the way and imprisoned in Mt. Etna! His vain efforts to free himself and his breath of fire made Etna a fire-emitting volcano. Enchantment : Alectoria (q.v.) is an antidote for enchant- ment. Endor, Witches of : Name of the three supernatural beings who appeared to Macbeth. (Shakespeare : Macbeth.) Enemy of God and Man : An epithet of the Devil. En-lil : Babyl. Myth. In the oldest inscriptions Bel is styled by this name, thus designating him as the chief god (or demon) Nipur. The name merely describes him as a powerful demon, but he manifested himself in storms and other violent disturbances of nature. Entrance : As a rule, ghosts and spirits must leave a place the same way as they entered it. (cf. Thorpe, Northern Myth.; Grimm, Dent. Myth. ; Wuttke, Volksaberelaube. etc.) Vide Exit. Enyo : Gr. Myth. One of the Graea;. En-zu:_ Babyl. Myth. The moon-god Sin is ordinarily designated ideographically En-zu which describes him as a *' lord of wisdom.” Eolus : Class. Myth. Son of Zeus and the nymph Menalippa, a god of the winds ; it was he who let loose the winds. Eos : Gr. Myth. The goddess of dawn corresponding to the Roman Aurora. Ephesus : _ In Arabia a talisman consisting of a piece of paper containing the names of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus is. still used to ward off ghosts and demons. Vide Grotto of Ephesus, Seven Sleepers of Ephesus. Ephialtes : In Greece the name given by the ignorant to account for the nightmare which results from indigestion. Epiales : In Greece it is a cold shivering fit which precedes* an attack of fever. Epidemic : During epidemics open the door only when the ^rm0rrT0lltSrf 6 ha7/ k"ocked thTree times. ( Jews of Galicia Vid l p£oirqUd ’ 202 ; JeW' Enc - VoL XL P- 6o°)- Epigones : Gf. Myth. One of the sons of the seven heroes who ivere beaten before Thebes. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 91 Epilepsy : Three drops of a sow’s milk cure epilepsy (Irish). The skull of a dead person used to make broth in, cures of epilepsy (Lean, Vol. II., p. 493). Epilepsy can be cured by wearing a heavy silver ring (East Friesland , Wuttke, p. 163) ; or by drinking the blood of a she-ass (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 84), or of the executed (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 83), or the hot blood of a weasel (Tyrol, Alpenburg, Mythen, p. 390) ; or let the patient carry a golden peacock’s feather under his shirt (Schiffer, Urquell , v. 290) ; or let him drink the blood of a black cat ; or let his shirt be buried at the junction of two roads, after it has been pulled over his head and carried out through the chimney. (Minsk. — Jezv. Enc.y Vol. V, p. 426). If all the above remedies fail, the patient will have nothing left but to invoke either St. Cornelius or St. Valentine. Vide Ben nefilim, Eggshell , Ass, Crucifix. Epimethus : Gr. Myth. Brother of Prometheus. In spite of his brother’s advice not to receive any present from Zeus, he accepted Pandora as his wife, and thus brought sorrow to the human race. Epitaph : If you would preserve your memory, be warned against reading epitaphs. (U.S. A.) Erasmus, St. : Cures colic and gripes. Erato : Gr. Myth. One of the Muses ; she presides over elegiac poetry and is represented with a lyre. Erebus : Class. Myth. Father of Charon. Erinys : Gn Relig. (pi. Erinyes). One of the avenging spirits who bring retribution upon those who have violated the laws of natural piety, hospitality, etc. Originally, they were the revengeful ghosts of the slain ; later, they were conceived as snaky-haired women pursuing the offender, and inflicting madness. They were three in number : Alecto/ Megsera and Tisiphone. Eriphyle : Gr. Myth. Wife of Amphiraiis, who foretold to her husband the disastrous end of the expedition against Thebes. She was slain by her son Alcmaeon. Erl King : In Teutonic and Scandinavian folk-lore, a personifi- cation of a spirit or natural power, supposed to work mischief, especially to children. “Dem Vater grauset’s, er reitet geschwind, Er halt in den Armen das achzende Kind, Erreicht den Hof mit Miih’ und Not; In seinen Armen das Kind war tot.” — Goethe : Erlkonig. A DICTIONARY OF 92 Eros : Gr. Myth. The god of love, corresponding to Cupid of the Romans. Erymanthean : Gr. Myth . A devastating boar which wandered about in Arcadia. Its capture was one of the labours imposed upon Hercules. Erysipelas : The tongue of a fox, worn near the heart, is a preventive against this disease. (Strackerjan, Vol. 1, 85). Vide Anthony, St. Eshshata : Jewish Folk-lore. The name of a spirit of fever. {Jew. Enc., Vol. IV. p. 517). Esprit Follet : The French equivalent of a Puck, Poltergeist, etc. Eteocles : Gr. Myth. A king of Thebes, son of (Edipus and Jocasta. His refusal to give up his throne to Polynices led to the expedition of the Seven against Thebes, in which the brothers killed each other. Eternal Jew : In popular superstition it is the Jew who hurried on Jesus Christ, when He was led to crucifixion. As a punishment, he is compelled to wander about the wTorld, homeless and restless, till the Day of Judgment. (S. Baring Gould, Myths of the Middle Ages ; Eugene Sue, Le Juif errant, Hazlitt, p. 618). Also known as the “ Wandering Jew.” Ethelbert, St. : Leads to the recovery of lost goods. Ethra : Class. Myth. Mother of Theseus. Etzel : In the Nibelungenlied, the second husband of Kriemhild, king of the Huns. Vide Gunther, Siegfried, Hagen, Kriemhild. Eucharis : A nymph belonging to the goddess Calypso ; heroine of an episode of Telemachus. Eumeus : Gr. Myth. A faithful servant and guardian of the troops belonging to Ulysses. Euminides : Gr. Myth. A name by which the Erinyes or the Furies are often designated. Eumolpus : Gr. Myth. A son of Neptune and founder of the famous Eleusian mysteries. Euphrosyne : Gr. Myth. One of the three Graces. Euronomus : A grizzly Greek demon who ate the flesh of corpses. He was blue-black in colour, like a carrion fly, his teeth were bared, and he is represented as sitting on the skin of a vulture. (Painted by Polygnotus). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 93 Europa : Gr. Myth. A daughter of Agenor, king of Phoenicia. She was carried away to Crete by Zeus disguised as a bull and became the mother of Minos. European : The finger-nails of Europeans are in popular belief a deadly poison. ( India — Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 279). Eurus : Gr. Myth. God of the east wind. Euryale : Gr. Myth. One of the Gorgons. Euryclea : Gr. Myth. The old nurse of Odysseus, who, on his return in disguise, recognized him by his scar. Eurydice : Gr. Myth. A nymph beloved of Orpheus. After her death by snake-bite, Orpheus descended to the nether regions, obtained Pluto’s permission to bring her back to earth, but on his way back he turned round, which he was forbidden to do, and she had to return to Hades. Eurynome : Gr. Myth. A sea-goddess, daughter of Oceanus. Eurystheus : Gr. Myth. A Mycenaean king to whose service Hercules was bound. Euterpe : Gr. Myth. The muse of lyric poetry ; she is repre- sented with a flute. Even : Vide Odds and Evens. Evil Eye : A supposed power of bewitching by spiteful looks, attributed to certain persons as a natural endowment. The belief is widespread both among savage and civilized people. (Lehmann, Aberglaube und Zauberei, p. 32 ; Budge, Egyptian Magic, p. 97, etc. ; Lane, Customs and Usages of the Egyptians of To-day ; Elworthy, The Evil Eye; Kohut, Judische Angelologie u.s.w., p. 58 ; Dal yell, Dark. Sup., p. 3 et seq ; Hazlitt, p. 2x6, 379 ; Abbott, p. 139 ; Ethnologie du Bengale, pp. 81, 84, 85, 131, 137). A woman who believes herself to be overlooked is to take the shift off over her head, turn it three times wither- shins (=against the course of the sun), then hold it open, and drop a burning coal through it three times ; then put it on again (Elworthy, E.E. p. 429). The evil eye, or in fact any evil, can be averted by the mother kissing the child thrice, and spitting after each kiss. (Jew. Enc., Vol. IX. p. 598). Vide Bread, Tulsi, Horseshoe, Palm, Ribbon, Thread, Stag, Horn. Evil One : An epithet of the Devil, Excalibur : King Arthur’s brand/ which, when flung back into the lake, was caught by an arm clothed in white samite, cf. Balmung, Tizona. . • , A DICTIONARY OF 94 Excrement, Human : This substance, thinned with water and given to animals, cures inflammations. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 84). Inflammations of human beings can also be cured by external use of the same, (ib.) The Bhuts of India feed on human excretion. Execution : The bones and the blood (Strack, p. 20) of the executed are a powerful talisman for procuring wealth. (Silesia, — Wuttke, p. 177. cf. Davis, Chronicles of New- gate.) Uncanny things go on at midnight in places where executions usually take place ; therefore, it is not safe for people to go there at this time. To dream of an execution, or places of execution, denotes that you will suddenly be sought after for relief. Vide Hand . Exeter : Derives its name, according to a belief, from the Romans exclaiming in delight : u Ecce terra ! ” when they came in sight of where this ancient city now stands. Exit : A mara or another evil spirit can make her exit only the way she made her entrance. Exorcism : The act of driving an evil spirit from the body of one possessed by adjuration, especially by the use of a holy name or by magic rites. Vide Beans , Peachwood. Eye : If the right eye itches, you will be pleased ; if the left, you will have sorrow. (Gt. Britain, India.) If the eye of a corpse remains open, or if he smiles, it is a sign that someone else from the same house will die soon. (Strackerjan, Vol. I. p. 30). St. Claire and St. Ottilie cure bad eyes. It is a very bad omen to dream of losing an eye ; your friends and relations will die, and you may even lose your liberty. “ Blue-eye beauty, do your mammy's duty, Black-eye, pick a pie, Run round and tell a lie ; Grey-eye, greedy-gut Eat all the world up." — V.SA. (Bergen, C.S . p. 33). Vide Smile , Evil Eye , Soreness , Gutta Percha , Kite , Rubbing . Eye of Balor : Vide Balor. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 95 Eyebrows : People with meeting eyebrows are superstitiously believed to be either vampires orwerewolves. (O’Donnell, Werewolves', Baring Gould, Book of Were Wolves ; Ranft, Traded von dem Kauen und Schmatzen der Todten in Grdbern.) Eyelid : For a man, the twitching of the right upper lid is considered lucky, and of the left unlucky ; for a woman, vice versa. ( Gt . Britain, India, Schiffer, Urquell, ii, 80-82 ; Abbott, p. 112). F Fafnir : In the Volsunga Saga, a giant who, in the form of a venom-breathing dragon, possesses and guards a great treasure. He was slain by Sigurd. Fair : To dream that you are going to a fair denotes that your pockets will be picked. Fairy : One of a class of supernatural beings of diminutive size ; in popular belief they are said to possess magical powers and to have great influence for good or evil over the affairs of men. " Heavens defend me from that Welsh fairy, lest he Transform me into a piece of cheese ! ” — Shakespeare: Merry Wives of Windsor, v., 5. Faithfulness : If your beloved is untrue to you, light three candles by the wrong ends and say the Paternoster three times ; then he is sure to come back to you. {Bohemia). False Report : If a man is falsely reported dead, he will live ten years longer. {Silesia, Hesse. — Wuttke, p. 39). Famine : When crows, robins or rooks forsake a wood in a flock, it forebodes a famine. Fangen : Forest spirits of German mythology. Fantine : Swiss Folk-lore. A class of well-disposed fairies. “On y voit encore la grotte ou vivaient les fantines ou masques, tout occupees a procurer le bien-etre des habitants du vallon. Elies faisaient prosperer 1’ agri- culture, procurant des saisons favorables, Dans leur retraite, elles fabriquaient des clochettes pour que le bdtail ne s Agar fit pas dans les hois, alors plus touffus qu'aujourd’hui." — Prof. Jean Jalla: Leg. vaud. p. 20. Farce : If you dream you see a farce, you will have good success in business. A DICTIONARY OF 96 Fascination : Human saliva is a charm against fascination. Fate : Class. Myth. The goddess, or one of the goddesses of fate and destiny. In Greek mythology they were three in number : Clotho, Lachesis , and Atropos . cf. Norn, Parca, Bidhatapurusha, Hathor, Sudicky. Father-in-law : It is an evil omen to dream of your father-in- law. Faun : Rom. Myth. An Italian deity of fields and woods, represented as having human form with pointed ears, small horns and sometimes a goat's tail, or as half goat and half man. Faunus : Rom. Relig. A rural deity, god of animal life and fruitfulness, patron of husbandry, hunting and herding and guardian of the secret lore of nature. Faust : Faust was a young German, student who, after studying magic, sold himself to the Devil. The legend has been immortalized by Goethe. “ Faust : O Faustus, Now thou hast but one bare hour to live, And then you must be damn'd perpetually." Marlow: Dr . Faustus (1589?).“ Fay : Vide Fairy , Elf, Feast : To dream that you are feasting without enjoying it is a forewarning of a great disappointment. Feather : The presence of game feathers in a feather bed will prolong the agonies of death ; it is impossible to die on a pillow stuffed with feathers of doves or pigeons. (Hazlitt, p. 232). Feng-hwang : Chin. Myth. A pheasant-like bird of rich plumage and graceful form and movement, fabled to appear in the land on the accession of a sage to the throne, or when right principles are about to prevail. (Mayer, Chin . Read. Man,, p. 43). cf. Phoenix . Feng-shui : A system of spirit influence for good and evil, believed by the Chinese to attend the natural features of landscape. Fenian : In Gaelic legend a band of heroes, forming a kind of free soldiery and chivalric order. Their leader was Finn. Fenodyres : The Manx name for a brownie. Fenrir : Norse Myth. A wolf, spawn of Loki, who fights with Tyr, and is afterwards cast into Niflheim by the iBsir. He killed Odin in a fight. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 97 Fergus : Gaelic Legend. Son of Finn. He was a bard and an important member of the Fenians. Feronia : An ancient Italian Goddess, a protectress of freed- men and markets. Fetch : A double (q.v.). “ In Ireland, ‘ a fetch ’ is the super- natural facsimile of some individual, which comes to ensure to its original a happy longevity, or immediate dissolution ; if seen in the morning, the one event is predicted; if in the evening, the other.”- — J. Banim: Tales of O’Hara Family , The Fetch. (1825). " The Earl of Cromwell met the fetch of his friend William Rufus.” — Tylor: Primitive Culture. Fetish : A material object supposed by the savage tribes to possess magical powers, capable of bringing to issue the de- signs of the owner, or to preserve him from injury. Origin- ally this name was applied to the rude wooden idols of the West Africans, but is now applied to similar objects all. the world over. (cf. R. Maran, Batouala , Lond., 1922, p 79). Feu Follet : The French name for a Jack-o’-Lantem. Fever : To cure fever, spill a can of water suddenly on the patient (Schiffer, Urquell, v. 223), or let him eat something he does not like. (Jew. Em., Vol. V., p. 223). In Burma fever is caused by a demon seizing people trespassing in his domain. He shakes them with ague till he is exorcised. Apoplectic fits are similarly caused by other demons. (Tylor, P.C. Vol. II, p. 124). Vide Epilepsy , Bacon, Cockchafer , Spider, Nail, Willow, Eshshata, Agate, Magpie. Fianna Eirinn : Irish for Fenian. Field : If a man dreams of green fields, he will marry a discreet, chaste and beautiful woman ; if a woman dreams the same, she will marry a loving and prudent husband, by whom she will have prudent and beautiful children. Field-mouse : In parts of England it is believed that a field- mouse creeping over the back of a sheep gives it paralysis, and that this can be cured by shutting up a mouse in the hollow of a trunk of the witch-hazel or witch-elm tree, and leaving it to die of starvation. (Brand, Observations, P- 7 39 J Frazer, Magic Art, vol. i, p. 83). Fiend : An infernal being, generally mixed up with the Devil. Fiery Apparitions : Apparitions in the form of fiery dogs and other animals are usually the spirits of those who have committed some heinous crime in their lifetime. (Alpen- BURG, p. 210, etc.). 9g A DICTIONARY OF Filth i Many spirits, generally of a malevolent nature, take up their abode in filth. . „. . Tf tv finger ioints crack when pulled, it is a sip. "that someonfloU you. (Strackekjak, Vol. I- 91)- MaS fishermen do not point at anythmg with a finger CRhys p. qq6). Vide Hcitc. Finn MacCoul : Gaelic Legend. Leader of the Fenians. tt . Irkh Mvth. The eldest of the four children of Ler, m who were changed into swans by their jealous stepmother and doomed to retain this form though without loss of human speech, for nine hundred years. _. a . tc trpp v,e touched, withered or burned with F’r (£5mng it 1 a warnig to the house that the master or mistress thereof trill shortly die. (Bkand, Observations, Vol. HI. P- 233). , . _. , « Tr^cfi T egend One of the tribes which settled in Ireland at a verv early date, and who were nearly destroyed by the Tuatha De Danann. They were identified with the dark population of short stature, believed to b Iberian affinities. Fir Darrig : Irish lore. A little merry red man, not unlike in his disposition and movements to Puck. Fire : If the fire springs out of the hearth you will receive a visit {Dutch — Thorpe, ACM., Vol. Ill, P- 328)- . The noise occasioned when the enclosed gas m a piece of burning coal catches fire is a sure indication of a quarrel between the inmates of the house {Gt. Britain). H cSldm, play with Sr* at night, they are sure to wet the bed in their sleep. _ (Strackeejan, Vol. I., 45). In Tapan the following things foretell a fire . a cock crowing loudly in the evening, a dog climbing on the roo SThouse oi building, a weasel crying out once^ and polling up a peculiar kmd of grass, called the *1 le (sunrise), which grows on many houses. (GRitris, M. ., P‘ St7IChristopher saves from fire, St. Agatha protects from it, but St. Florian should be invoked if a fire has alriTl:hebfir1?bunits brightly on Christmas rnmning^ it betokens prosperity during the year ; if it smoulde , & aKth the bars of the grate and the poker drives the devil out of the chimney and so enables the fire to burn. {Gt. Britain.- Elworthy, E. E., p. 43°)- SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 99 In Ireland a fire is believed to be a great protection against fairies and witches, (ib. p. 43^- cf- Ethnologic du Bengale, pp. 82, 92, 133 ; Kuhn und Schwartz, Nord- deuische Sagen, p. 92 ; Wolf, Beitrage, Vol. II, p. 303 ; Ploss, DasWeib, Vol. I, pp. 615 seq. ; Wuttke, p. 195 ; Lady Wilde, p. 118 ; Tylor, Primitive Culture, Vol. II, p. 178 ; Hylton-Cavallius, War end och Wirdarne, "Vol. I, p. 191 ; Atkinson, Glossary of Cleveland Dialect, p 5Q7 ; Hubert et Mauss, Essai sur le Sacrifice, Annee Social., Vol. II (1897-1898), p. 57, n. 7). Vide Beehive, Agatha St., Gipsy, Nail. Fire-Fly : Night blindness is cured by eating a fire-fly. {Bengal). Fireplace : If the fire in the fireplace bursts with an explosive sound, it is a sign of a quarrel. {Silesia, Hesse, Mark, Swabia), but if you spit on it, you will not be the sufferer. {Mark.-- Wuttke, p. 37). First : The first of April, August and December are unlucky days. (Wuttke, p. 22; StrackerJan, Vol. II. p. 52). First-born Children : They are believed to have the power of stopping rain ; according to the Muslims, they can do so bv stripping naked and standing on their heads. In Calcutta, they need only make a candle of cloth and burn it {Die, Ret. Eth. Vol. VIII, p. 291). It is believed in India that a first-born son leaning against anvthing will attract a thunderbolt to it. {Die. Rel. Eth. Vol. VIII, p. 290 ; N.I.N.Q., I. (1891) 378). First-buried : The spirit of the first-buried in a churchyard can never have rest, but must wander about eternally. {Hessen, Westphalia — Wuttke, p. 215). cf. Last Buried. Fish : If you count the number of fish you have caught, you will catch more that day. {Gt. Britain). If you meet a priest while on your way to fishing, you will have a good haul that day. {Gt. Britain ; Japan — Griffis, M.E., p. 470). Fish are sometimes transformed into birds (Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 301). It is unlucky to dream of a single fish, but lucky to dream of a shoal. Spirits and other malevolent demons are very fond of fish, especially fried (cf. Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 115 ; Skeat, Malay Magic, p. 326). Vide Net, Woman. Fisherman : Fishermen spit on their hansel for luck in fishing. 100 A DICTIONARY OF Fishermen everywhere avoid mentioning at sea the name of a pig, hare, salmon, trout, or dog, but go out of their way to find some other word when it is needful to indicate either of these. (Elworthy, E.E., p. 3x3. Bassett, p. 279). (For further superstitions, see Bassett, Legends ’and Superstitions of the Sea and Sailors, Lond., 1885). Fish, Great : The larger portion of the treasure of the North American Indians; the smaller portion being called Little Fish. (Rider Haggard, Montezuma’ s Daughter), Fits : To cure fits, go into a church at midnight, and walk three times round the communion table. (Lean, Vol. II., p. 996). Five : In Japan new clothes or sandals should not be put on after 5 p.m. (Griffis, M.E., p. 472). Flatfoot : It is a sign of low descent. Vide Instep. Flea : A flea-bite on the hand is a precursor of good news {Silesia, Hesse, Saxony. — Wuttke, p. 34), or it foretells that you will be kissed. ( Germany , Austria ). Fleas will never come in a bed if the beds be aired on the Thursday before Easter. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 1x1). Fleas and bugs never infest a dying person. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 579)- Flesh and Blood : Flesh and blood of the sacrificed were eaten and drunk by the Aztecs, because they thought that this would make them strong and powerful (Wuttke, Geschichte des Heidentums, Vol. I, p. 268, etc.) ; or produce inspiration. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 133). Flint : Ghosts cannot bear the sight of sparks from a flint. {Mark. — Wuttke, p. 224). Flood : St. Christopher protects from floods. Vide Frost. Flora : The goddess of flowers and gardens, the beloved of Zephyr, and mother of Spring. Florian : Vide Fire. Florimel’s Girdle : It would loosen itself or tear asunder if any woman unfaithful or unchaste attempted to put it on. cf. Bahman’s Knife, Canace’s Mirror, Sophia’s Picture, Mantle, Grotto of Ephesus, Water of Jealousy. Flounder : According to a Sutherland tradition, the wrv mouth of a flounder arose from making faces at the rock-cod. (Campbell, Sup. Scot. High., p. 223 ; cf. Bassett p. 257). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY xoi The white side of a flounder is caused by the Virgin Mary’s laying her hand on it. {Finland. — Notes and Queries, 15-11-1883). Flour : It is a sin for a Bulgarian not to fumigate the flour when it is brought from the mill, especially if the mill is kept by a Turk ; this is done to prevent the Devil from entering into it. (St. Clair and Brophy, Bulgaria, p. 46 ; Tylor, P.C., Vol. II, p. 146). To meet a person carrying flour is a bad omen. [India — Jackson, F.L.N., Vol. I, p. 127). Flower : If a flower be plucked from a grave and afterwards thrown away, the place where the flower falls will be haunted. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 154). Flowers or wreaths must not be laid on the bed of a sick person ; this is injurious to the invalid. (Stracker- jan,'Vol. I, p. 49). If you take a flower with you to dinner, wipe your lips with it after drinking some wine, and give it to your lover or sweetheart, he or she will fall madly in love with you. (Floss, Das Weib, Vol. I, 443). Ghosts sometimes take up their abodes in flowers. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 291). Fly : Vide Magpie, Vermin. Flying : The power of flying through the air may be acquired by eating the heart of an unborn babe. (Strack, p, 21). Witches are supposed to possess the power of flying through the air on brooms, goats, etc. (Lehmann, A.Z. ; Grimm, D.M.) If you dream you are flying, you are vainly ambitious and romantic. Flying Dutchman : A legendary Dutch mariner condemned to sail against the wind till the Day of Judgment. His spectral ship, also called by this name, the seeing of which is considered a very bad omen by sailors, is said to sail about in the neighbourhood of the Cape of Good Hope with full sails in bad weather. (Capt. Marryat, The Phantom Ship ; cf. Wolf, Niederlandische Sagen, No. 130 ; Thorpe, N.M., Vol. Ill, p. 295). Vide Ship Spectral. Foam : If the foam from a mule’s mouth, mixed with warm water, be drunk by an asthmatic patient, he will at once recover, but the mule will die. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. Ill, P- 23-) „ . ■ “ Fog on the mu _ = ' Brings water to the mill , Fog on the moor Brings the sun to cs_ p JJ2) Ikvang : Norse Myth. Frey’s hall in Asgard to which l“n half of the battle-fallen heroes. t r-iplir leaend they were giants or sea-demons, >mor : In Gaelic legena hr.iiPVed to have been overcome yowcrs of darkness and^etnh believed to ha^^ ^ it^dXU and some with animal aod1: Food buried with the dead 1 semis to have tad the object pT? 'lPady Wildh, p. 118 ; I* Bras, Vol. I, p. aby). Vide Pindi. ool’s Paradise : Vide Limbus Faiuorum. kfSgwS r'sif 5 srs to some unknown place. (Gt. Britain, ^dia Germany^ WuTXKit, p. 41 : among the Jews -Jew. Enc., Vol. IX., P' Bhdts enter a person’s body by means of the feet (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p- 241). cf. Hand. _ Footorint * The Devil is said to leave footprints pointing to- waris a backward direction. (See the story given by Tylor in his Primitive Culture, Vol. 1, p- 270;. Footwear * If thev are lying on a table, they must be put on the floor before donning them, otherwise they bring bad luck. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 4°)- Fork : A fork accidentally dropped signifies a visit from a woman. {Gt. Britain). Vide Knife. Forseti: Tent. Myth.: A deity oi ( Frisian origin whose chief seat was Heligoland. Norse Myth. : Son of Balder. Fortuna * Class. Relig. An allegoric divinity of the Greeks and 'Romans. She was the goddess of Fortune ; she. is re- presented with a bandage round her eyes, and is standing SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 103 Fountain : Dirce, wife of Lycus, was changed into a fountain by Bacchus, cf. Pirene. Four-leaved Clover : It is lucky to find a four-leaved clover (Great Britain ), especially if it be sewn inside the clothes. (Silesia. — W uttke, p. 96.) Fowl : “ To bewitch till he die, take a black hen and pluck from it every feather, and this done keep them all care- fully, so that not one be lost. With these you may do any harm to grown-up people or children.” (Leland, Etruscan Roman Remains , p. 354.) Fox : The fox and certain other animals are said to possess a power of bewitching human beings by assuming phantom forms. In japan (Griffis, Chamberlain, Aston, Brinkley) and China (de Groot, Giles, Mayer) for example, the animal is said to have innumerable powers ; and, in fox- possession, the spirit of the animal intrudes itself into the body of a man or woman and exercises a more or less absolute control over the person in whose body it resides. (Chin. V olksmarchen .) If the tongue of a fox be dried and worn near the heart, it will safeguard you against erysipelas in the face. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 85.) Vide Courage , Hare. Francus : Myth. Son of Hector. According to the poet Ronsard in his book Franciade , Francus is said to be the father of the French nation. Frau Holle : Ger. Myth. A variation of the Wild Hunt. Vide Holda . Freiherr von Guttingen : He collected the poor in a great barn and burnt them to death, mocking their cries of agony all the while. He, like Hatto, was invaded by mice and ran to his castle of Guttingen on Lake Constance, whither the vermin pursued him and ate him alive. The Swiss legend says that the castle sank in the lake and may still be seen. /' ■ y . Freiherr von Guttingen had three castles, one of which was Moosberg. cf. Hatto, Graaf , Widerolf , Adolf. Frey : Teut. Myth. A Vanir deity of fruitfulness, love, prosperity and peace. He was united with Gerth, a giantess. A DICTIONARY OF anrse Myth The goddess of love and beauty, who nrSidedyover the regions of the dead. She was one ,e Vanir and daughter of Njorth, and sister of Frey. famoSs poSessionwas the jewel or necklace Bnsmga- which was obtained from the dwarfs. Nails should he cut on a Friday ; it brings luck and s t0 keep toothache away {Germany), hair cut on this day grows well ( Silesia ) ; children born on this day lave ZS to suffer -Wuitke gM* " Never be bom on a Fnday, Sick persons should not be visited on a Friday. (Lady Wilde, p. 214). . Sailors will not sail on a Friday. Friday derives its name from Freya or Fngg, to whom it is dedicated. Vide Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Death Omens. rndship : Vide Needle, Knife, Dog, Garden, Pm. \ . Norse Myth. Wife of Odin and goddess of the sky.* She presides over marriage and. domestic hfe-She rules not only in heaven, but also m the dark nether world, the abode of the dead, ig ; When frogs croak more than usual, it is a sign of bad ^ Frogs, lizards, owls and bats are used for various magical purposes, and as love charms. (Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. 1, ^To^meet a frog is lucky (Lean, Vol. II, p- 51) > ^ indicates that the person is about to receive money. ^ Frogs or toads must not be lulled on AH Hallows Day, because “ poor souls reside in them.” (Zingerle, Sitten, P' Sordine to the Mongol Lamas, a frog supports the Friday SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 105 On Christmas Eve, South Slavonian and Bulgarian peasants swing an axe threateningly against a barren fruit tree. This is done thrice, and then another man intercedes. After that the frightened tree will certainly bear fruit next year. (Krauss, V.R.B.S., p. 34.) The Malays have a similar mode of horticulture. (Skeat, M.M., 198 seq.) of. Jal Pari , Tree, Stone . Fukurukuju : Jap. Myth. A god of luck ; he is represented as possessing an extraordinarily long head and accompanied by a crane, a deer, and a tortoise. Full Moon : Cabbages must not be planted at the time of the full moon ; if done, the seeds will come up on the top the next morning ; the moon draws them up ! (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 49.) Vide Moon . Furies : English name for the Erinyes. Fye-token ; It is the name given for a “ waff ” in Scotland. Fylfot : Same as Swastika. Fylgja : Norse Myth. Tutelary spirits which attended a person either as his soul or as guardian spirits. G Gee a ; Gr. Myth. The earth as a goddess, the eldest born of Chaos. Gal-alim : Babyl. Myth. A deity of a local character. Galatea : Sicilian Myth. A sea-nymph beloved by Polypheme, a Cyclops, She herself had a heartache for Acis. The jealous giant crushed his rival under a huge rock and Galatea, inconsolable at the loss of her lover, was changed into a fountain. The word Galatea ” is used poetically for any rustic maiden, (Dr. Brewer, R,H.f p. 401 ; Petit Larousse , p. 1335.) Gale : A gale is caused by the spirit of the winds rushing through the air. A gale is foretold by many crows getting together in the early morning. (Tibet.— Waddell, p. 136.) Gallu : In Babylonian superstition this was a demon ; the word signifies “ the great one.” Gammadion : Another name for the Swastika (q.v.). .v.'Gs: ■ a • ■ io6 A DICTIONARY OF Gandini : Hindu Myth. Daughter of Kasi Raja ; she had been twelve years in her mother’s womb, when her father desired her to come forth. The child advised her father to present to the Brahmans a cow every day for three years and at the end of that time she would be born. This was done and the child on being born, received the name of Gandini, “cow daily.” (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 106.) Gandreid : “ Spirit’s ride ” ; the Norse name for the “ Wild Hunt ” (q.v.). Ganesha : Hind. Myth. The god of wisdom and prudence ; the remover of obstacles. He is the son of Siva and Parvati ; he is represented as a short, fat, yellow man with a large belly and with the head of an elephant. Generally, he is sitting cross-legged. Ganymede : Gr. Myth. A beautiful shepherd boy of Phrygia, who was carried up to Olympus by Zeus, and made cup- bearer of the gods. Garden : If you dream of a garden, and the trees are bare, your friends will become poor, or you will lose their friendship ; but if the trees are in blossom, you will have prosperity. Gardsvor : “ House-guardian ” ; they are the household- spirits of the Scandinavians, cf. Brownie, Nisse, Domovoy. Garlic : In Serbia rubbing the breast with garlic is a protec- tion against a spirit that flies about at night. The presence of Mamdos and other evil spirits is easily detected by the smell of garlic. {India.) Danish mothers used garlic to keep evil away from children. (Brand, Observations, p. 335.) Garlic was an old English cure for a fiend-struck patient. (Chambers, Book of Days, vol. i, p. 720.) In India (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 35 ; Ethnologie du Bengale, pp. 118, 85 n. 3 ; cf. Jolly, Recht and Sitte, pp. 157 seq. ; Durkheim, La Prohibition de Vinceste, Annie Sociologique, Vol. I, 1896-1897, pp. 44 seq.), and in Macedonia (Abbott, p. 141), garlic is said to scare, away demons. Garm : Norse Myth. Hell’s watch-dog, a monster who at Ragnarok breaks loose from his chains, bays terribly and slays and is slain by Tyr. cf. Cerberus. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 107 Garnet : The garnet is an emblem of constancy and is, like the jacinth, dedicated to January. This was the carbuncle of the ancients, which, they said, gave out light. Garter : The exchange of a yellow garter means a proposal in six months. ( Washington , D.C. — Bergen, C.S., p. 65.) If a bride loses a garter, it is a sign that the marriage will be broken off. (Strackerjan, Yol. I, p. 35.) cf. Veil. Garuda : (pron. Garur) . The Garuda of Buddhist mythology is a mysterious being whose form is like that of a bird of prey, not unlike an eagle or vulture. Vide Tengu. Gates of Gundoforus : No one carrying poison could pass through these gates. They were made of the hom of the homed snake by the Apostle Thomas. He built a palace of sethym wood for the Indian prince Gundoforus, and set up these gates. Vide Horn, Nurjehan’s Bracelet, Unicorn, Peacock, Rhinoceros, Venetian Glass. Gauri : Hindu Myth. Devi (q.v.) considered as a beneficent deity. Gautami : Hind. Myth. An epithet of Durga. (ii) Name of a fierce Rakshasi or female demon. Gefjon : Norse Myth. A minor goddess resembling Freya. She shares Odin’s knowledge of world’s fates and. to her come those who die as maids. Geomancy : Divinations by means of points made in sand, or by means of pebbles or grains of sand placed on a piece of paper. Germane, St. : The patron saint for children. Vide Child. Gerstenalte : “ Barley-gaffer ” ; a Teutonic field-spirit of the human type. Gerth : Teut. Myth. A giantess, wife of Frey. Gertrude, St. : Vide Mouse, Rat, Vermin. Geryon : Gr. Myth. A giant with three heads, who was killed by Hercules. Getting out of Bed : You should not get out of bed with the left foot first ; if you do so, you will have ill luck the whole day. ( Silesia , Hesse, Saxony. — Wuttke, p. 131 ; Olden- burg.— Strackerjan, VoL I, p. 35 ; India, Great Britain, Bohemia, Persia, Turkey, etc.) A DICTIONARY OF 108 Ghaddar : (Ar.). An evil spirit of Arabic superstition ; it is said to be an offspring of Iblis and is described as found in the borders of El-Yemen. It entices men and either tortures them or merely terrifies and then leaves them. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 44.) Gharrar : Another spelling for Ghaddar. Ghost : The soul of a deceased person spoken of as appearing in a visible form or otherwise manifesting its presence to the living. “ Ghost : I am thy father’s spirit ; Doomed for a certain term to walk the night, And for the day confined to fast in fires, Till the foul crimes done in my days of nature Are burnt and purg’d away. ...” Shakespeare, Hamlet, i. v. 15. To dream of a ghost tells you that persons you fancy to be your enemies are perhaps your best friends. Ghoul : (Ar.). The Arabs regard it as a kind of Shaitan, that eat men and are capable of assuming various forms ; they haunt burial grounds and other sequestered spots and feed upon dead bodies. They are supposed to be the offsprings of Iblis. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 43.) In all Mohammedan countries they are supposed to rob graves and prey on human corpses ; they also kidnap children and devour them. (See the story given in Grande Dictionnaire de la latigue frangaise.) “ It sucks with the vampire, gorges with the ghoule.” — Lowell, Among my Books. Sergeant Bertrand who dug up dead bodies from the Cimeti&re du P&re Lachaise and other cemeteries in and around Paris, and whose case created a great sensation in 1848, has been considered by Mr. Elliot O’Donnell (Werewolves) to have been possessed by a ghoul ; in the opinion of Dr. R. von Krafft-Ebing ( Psyckopathia Sexualis. Eng. tr. p. 70), it was a clear case of sadism, cf. Tardieu, Attentats aux mcenrs, 1878, p. 114; Legrand, La folie devant les tribuns, p. 514 ; Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. II, p. 591.) Vide Ankle-bone, Iron, Tooth. Ghritachi : Hind. Myth. The name of an Apsaras or celestial nymph. Giant : Gr. Myth. The offspring of Uranus and Gaea (Heaven and Earth), who rebelled against the gods. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 109 A mythical manlike or monstrous being of a huge stature and of more than mortal but less than godlike power and strength. They appear very frequently in mediaeval romances and nursery tales, as also in traditions and romantic fiction. Giantess : The female counterpart of a giant. Giavanel : Another name for the Dusou (q.v.) Gift : Sharp instruments should not be given as gifts, they cut friendship ; neither pointed instruments. Vide Scissors, Shoes. Gigantomachy : “ The war of the giants.” Gigelorum : In Celtic superstition this is the smallest animal in the world. All that is known about it is, that it makes its nest in the mite’s ear. (Campbell, Sup. Scot. Highl., p. 220.) Gildas, St. : Guardian saint of idiots. Gilgamesh : Babyl. Myth. A legendary king, hero of an epic bearing his name. With Eabani, his comrade, who dies, he is afflicted with foul diseases. Ut-napishtim (q.v.) cures him and directs him to the plant of immortality. Nergal grants him an interview with the ghost of Eabani who describes the sad lot of the dead in the underworld. Gin-sai : A fabulous bird “ capable of diffusing so venomous an influence that even its shadow poisons food.” (Griffis, Corea, p. 306.) cf. Basilisk, Dragon, BazalUek. Gipsy : Gipsies can cure various diseases and tell fortunes. (Great Britain.) Gipsies can protect houses from burning. (Wolf, Beitrdge, Vol. II, p. 376; Schonewerth, Vol. II, p. 83; Wuttke, p. 140.) Girdle : If a girdle be accidentally loosed on a woman, it is construed into an omen of an easy delivery. (Macedonia. — Abbott, p. 99.) Vide Stocking. Girru : Babyl. Myth. A deity symbolizing the element of fire. Gjallhom : Norse Myth. The horn belonging to Heimdall, warder of Asgard. Gladsheim : Norse Myth. The abode of Odin in Asgard. Glaisein : The Glaisein of the Isle of Man was a kind of brownie and was “ very strong, he frequented farms, threshed corn and went to the sheep-folds.” (Campbell, West Highland Tales, Introd. liii.) Glaisrig : Manx Folklore. A female fairy or goblin, half- human, half-beast. no A DICTIONARY OF Glaistig : Manx Folklore. A kind of she-goblin which takes the form of a goat. The Glaistig of the Highlands of Scotland was “ a tutelary being in the shape of a thin grey little woman, with long yellow hair reaching to her heels, dressed in green, haunting certain sites and farms, and watching in some cases over the house, in others over the cattle.” (Campbell, Sup. Scot. Highl., p. I55-) Glashan : In West Highland superstition it was a hirsute spirit that rebelled against clothing, cf. Gruagach. Glass : You are sure to invite a quarrel if you look through a piece of broken glass. {Great Britain .) A glass full of water which must not be drunk, protects the house from robbery and theft. ( Bohemia , Parts of Germany.) Glaucus : Gr. Myth, (i) A Boetian fisherman who was later made a god' of the waters. (ii) Son of Sisyphus and father of Bellerophon. He was devoured (torn to pieces ?) by horses for having spoken derogatorilv of Venus. Gloso : “ Glow sow ” ; a field spirit of Swedish folklore. Glove : It is unlucky to lose a glove. [Bathurst, N.B.) Glutton : If you cannot make your thumb and finger meet round your wrist, you are a glutton. (. Prov . of Quebec.- — Bergen, C.S., p. 35.) Vide Mole. gNan : They are malignant Tibetan spirits who are believed to cause pestilential diseases ; they infest certain trees, rocks, and springs. Gnat : When gnats fly low, it indicates rain at hand. When they fly high and are at all abundant, fine weather may be expected. ( Great Britain.) Gnome : A species of supernatural deformed dwarfs who, according to the Jewish cabbalists, inhabit the centre of the earth. They are supposed to be guardians of hidden treasures. Goat : He-goats are the favourite mounts of witches. (Grimm, D.M., p. 1049 ; KtiHN und Schwarz, 18, 232, 470 ; Leubuscher, Die Wahmolfe ; Strackerjan, Vol. II, P. 87.) Witches and demons sometimes assume the form of he-goats. (Ennemoser, Hist. Mag., Vol. II, p. 148.) The Garos of Assam offer a black goat on the top of a mountain in times of drought. (Dalton, Descriptive Ethnology, p. 88). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY in Gobelinus : According to Ordericns Vitalis (12th century), it is the popular name of a spirit which haunted the neigh- bourhood of Evreaux. Goblin : A kind of mischievous spirit of a grotesque shape, “ Bhutas are evil spirits of the lowest order, corres- ponding to our ghosts and other goblins of the nursery/' Elphinstone, Hist, of India (1841). God : The Jews and the Mohammedans do not call God by name, lest they commit the crime of blasphemy. “ Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, thy God in vain/' The Ten Commandments ( Exodus xx, 7). cf. Qor’an , Skedim . God, Blind ; A common epithet of Cupid, god of love. God of Luck : Jap. Myth. There are in all seven gods of luck. They are : Fukurokuju, Daikoku, Hotei, Bishamon, Benten, Ebisu and Jurojin. (Chamberlain, p. 235 ; cf. Anderson's Catalogue of Japanese and Chinese Paintings in the British Museum , pp. 27-46.) God-father : A man must not be god-father to a baby girl, lest she die a spinster. (W etterau, Westphalia. — Wuttke, p. 199.) God-mother : Pregnant women must not become god-mothers to other children ; if they do so, either their own or the god-children will die. [Pomerania, Silesia . — Wuttke, P- I93-) God-parents : God-parents whose god-children have died must not be god-parents again, lest the others die too. (W etterau, Westphalia. — Wuttke, p. 199.) Gog : Gog and Magog were the popular names of two enormous wooden statues erected in 1708 in the Guildhall, London. Goitre : Vide Stones, Tattooing. Gold : To dream of gold denotes success and money. Golden Age : A fabled primeval period of perfect human happiness and innocence, in which the earth yielded her fruits without toil and all creatures lived in peace. Gold Fish : They were formerly supposed to live on gold. (Conway, Demonology, Vol. I, p. 228.) Golden Fleece : The fleece of gold taken from the ram on which Phryxus was carried through the air to Colchis, and in quest of which the Argonauts sailed under Jason. Golem : Everything that is in a state of incompletion, or everything not fully formed. Originally it meant “ embryo.” XI2 A DICTIONARY OF Goll : Gaelic legend. The leader of a band which Finn out- witted. Good Friday : Bathing on this day in the river is especially beneficent for the itch. (Panzer, Beitr. zur deut. Myth., I, 258.) One should not go into the garden on a Good Friday ; caterpillars will be numerous if this be done. (Wuttke, p. 18.) Goose : A goose is the silliest animal on earth, hence the expression “ a silly goose.” If the breast-bones of a roasted goose are white or bluish, it is a sign of a severe winter ; if brown, of a mild one. (StrackerJan, Vol. I, p. 25 ; Hazeitt, p. 284 ; Atkinson, Cleveland Glossary.) Geese give warning of death by flying round a house. (Owen, pp. 304, 205.) Vide Barnacle, Holly, St. Matthew’s Day. Gopis : Hind. Myth. The cowherd damsels and wives with whom Krishna (q.v.) sported in his youth. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. xi3.) Gorgon : Gr. Myth. They were monsters with snakes for hair; their look was so terrible that it turned anyone into stone. They were three in number and were called : Medusa, Euryale and Stheno ; of these Medusa alone was mortal. In modern Greek folklore a gorgon is represented as half woman, half fish. Their favourite resort, especially on Saturday nights, is reputed to be the Black Sea. (Lawson, p. 185.) Gorska makva : In Bulgarian superstition she is a hag who torments children by night. She is a frightful wood- spirit with the head like that of an ox, and is the exact counterpart of the Russian Kriksy. Gout : Walking in the fields on a Friday morning before sunrise cures gout. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 497.) St. Wolfgang relieves people suffering from this disease. Go-Vardhana ; Hind. Myth. A mountain in Vrindavana, which Krishna induced the cowherds and cowherdesses to worship instead of Indra. This enraged the god, who sent a deluge of rain to wash away the mountain and all the people of the country ; but Krishna held up the mountain with his little finger for seven days to shelter the people of Vrindavana. Indra retired baffled and afterwards did homage to Krishna. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 114.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 113 Graaf : A German count who, in order to enrich himself, bought up all the corn. One year a sad famine prevailed, and the count expected to reap a rich harvest by his speculation, but an army of rats pressed by hunger, invaded his barns, and swarming into his Rhine castle, fell on the old baron, worried him to death, and then devoured him. cf. Freiherr von Giittingen, Hatto, Widerolf, Adolf, Graces : Class. Myth. Graceful and beautiful maidens, sister goddesses, represented as intimate with the Muses. They were three in number: Aglaia (Brilliance), Euphrosyne (Joy) and Thalia (Bloom) ; they were regarded as inspirers of the qualities which give charm to nature — love, wisdom, etc. Grreae : Gr. Myth. Watchers for the Gorgons, daughters of a sea-deity. They were born with grey hair and had but one eye and one tooth between them. They were three in number and called ; Deino, Enyo and Pephredo. Graha : The power that seizes and obscures the sun and moon, causing eclipses. Vide Iiahti, Ketu, Maboya, Aracho. (ii) Evil spirits with which people, especially children, are possessed and which cause sickness and death. They are supposed to be amenable to medicine and exorcism. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 114.) Grama-devata : “ Gods of the village ” ; in North India they are generally non-human spirits. Grand Veneur : At certain times of the year, a spectral hunts- man, accompanied by his full ghostly pack of hounds, is said to hunt in the forest of Fontainebleu. He is the Wild Huntsman (q.v.) of France, cf. Herne the Hunter, Wodan. Grape : It is a good omen to dream of eating grapes ; you will have profits. Grass : If a dog eats grass, it is a sign of an approaching rain. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 24). Cats chewing grass prognosticate the same. On Christmas Eve, thrash the garden with a flail, with only your shirt on, and the grass will grow well next year (Ragner). Grass Demon : The name of a Teutonic field-spirit who lives in the meadows. Grave: To dream of an open grave denotes sickness and disappointment. II4 A DICTIONARY OF Great Bear : Callisto (q.v.) after her death, became the con- stellation Great Bear. Great Mother : The nature goddess of Anatolia whose chief name is Cybele. Green : This is an unlucky colour and should therefore be avoided as much as possible. (Great Britain .) “ Brides in green Keep sorrow unseen/' ( Great Britain.) Grey : This colour like black, is unlucky ; it denotes death and guilt. Grigri : Another name for Juju. Grim : Norwegian Superstition. A spirit of the waterfalls. In a story, a mysterious water-fairy, a musical genius, who plays to everyone and requires a white kid every Thursday. (Thorpe, N.M., Vol. II, p. 23.) Gripes : St. Erasmus cures gripes. Groats : In German folklore they are the hidden enchanted treasures of the dwarfs. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 79.) Grotto of Ephesus : Near Ephesus was a grotto containing a statue of Diana, attached to a reed, presented by Pan. If a young woman charged with dishonour, entered this grotto and the reeds gave forth musical sounds, she was declared to be a pure virgin ; if, on the other hand, it gave forth hideous noises, she was denounced and never seen more. (Lord Lytton : Tales of Miletus, III.) Vide FlorhmVs Girdle, Mantle, Candle Glowing, etc . Gruagach : A spirit of Skipness who, like Glashan, rebelled against clothes. ■ -■■■■ . eh'D/T/;/ Grumisel-rou : A kind of Swiss spirit, which appears in the form of a red ball of fire. (Jalla, Leg* Vaud., p. 27.) Guan Di : The Chinese god of war. His name is supposed to be a charm against a multitude of evils. Guan Yin ; Buddhist Folklore. A being who helps in time of need. She is the goddess of charity and pity ; she is represented as dressed in white and riding an” elephant. {Chin, Volksmdrchen , p. 202.) Vide Pa Hidn , Wen Ju . Gudrun : Volsunga Saga. A sister of Gunnar ; she wins Sigurd by the help of a magic draught and, after his death, marries Atli. Gula : BabyL Myth. The consort of Ninib. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 115 Gun : Guns should neither be carried nor placed on the head ; this prevents a child from growing taller. {Japan. — Griffis, M.E., p. 470.) Gundoforus : Vide Gates of Gundofonis. Gunnar : Volsunga Saga. Brother of Gudrun, husband of Brvnhild. Gunther : Nibelungenlied. King of Burgundy, whose sister Kriemhild (q.v.) is married to Siegfried. After the murder of Siegfried, Gunther and his knights are treacherously slaughtered at the instigation of his widow, Kriemhild. Gutrune : In the “ Ring of the Nibelungen ” she is Gunther's sister who became wife of Siegfried. Gutta Percha : If you wear gutta percha soles to your boots or shoes you will have diseases of the eye and impaired sight. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 165.) Gwrach y Rhibyn : Welsh Folklore. A spirit which gives warning of an approaching death. (Rhys, C.F., p. 953.) cf. Banshee , Smrtnice, Bozaloshtsh , Death Warnings. Gwydion : Celt. Myth. A Cymric deity, husband of Arianrod, famous as a magician. He is a friend of mankind, a giver of arts and civilization, and is against the underworld powers. Gwyn : Celt. Myth. A Cymric underworld deity, who conducts the souls of the dead to Annwn. In later Welsh legends, he is a king of the fairies. Gwragedd Annwn : These are Welsh fairies of lakes and streams, and are neither mermaids nor sea-maidens. They are said to be descendants of villagers condemned to sink below the waters for reviling St. Patrick on one of his visits (Sikes, Brit. Gob., p. 35). They may be brought up by mortals by dropping bread and cheese in the water, (ib., p, 41 ; Bassett, p. 151.) y : . Habergeis : In Tyrol it is a malicious bird which is one of the Devil's tools. Its cry denotes death, and anyone imitating it would at once be torn to pieces. (Alpenburg, Mythen, p. 385 ; Zingerle, Sitten, p. 42.) n6 A DICTIONARY OF Habsburg : The Habsburg family of Austria is said to have an ancestress who -gives warning of an approaching death or deaths. By some authors she has been confused with the White Lady of the Hohenzollems. cf. Melusine, White Lady. Hackelberg, Hackeiberend : The Wild Huntsman of Germany is usually known by this name. Hacketaler : This is the German equivalent of the Luck Penny. (On the method of obtaining one of these, see Wuttke, Der deutsche Volksaberglaube der Gegenwart, P- I77-) Haddock : The black spots on each side of a haddock near the gills, are the impression of St. Peter’s finger and thumb, when he took the tribute money from the fish’s mouth, or of Christ when he held the fish, at the time he fed the “multitude.” [Great Britain, cf. St. Matthew, xiv, 16-21). A haddock’s bones should not be burnt in Scotland. A haddock once said : “ Roast me and boil me, But dinnah burn my behns. Or then I’ll be a stranger Aboot yi’r hearth-stanes.” (Brand, Observations, Vol. Ill, p. 262 ; Bassett, p. 260.) Hades : Rom. Myth. The god of the lower worlds corresponding to Pluto of the Greeks. Haemorrhage : Topaz is favourable for haemorrhages . Hafaza : (Ar.) Moham. Myth. Certain angels who protect men from the jinni and the shaitans. They are four in number, two of whom are on duty at daytime, and two at night. The hafaza write down the actions of man and keep an account of his good as well as of his bad deeds. Haferbock : “ Oat-goat ” ; a field-spirit of German folklore. Hagen : Nibelungenlied. A fierce knight in the court of King_ Gunther, -who treacherously slays Siegfried (q.v.) and is himself slain by Kriemhild (q.v.), his widow. Haimavati : _ Hind. Myth. “ Daughter of the Himalaya Mountains ” ; one of the various epithets of Devi. Hair : If a dog bites you, any evil consequences may be averted by applying three of the dog’s hairs to the wound. (Great Britain.)' SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY i*7 Hair should under no circumstances be thrown away, as other people finding it may perform many magical operations harmful to the owner. [Great Britain , France , Germany , India , etc,) In India, however, women may throw their hair away, provided they tie it to something. (Day, Folktales of Bengal , p. 87.); or in Europe, spitting on cut hair before throwing it away will be sufficient to prevent it being used by witches. (Zingerle, Sitten , etc,. Nos. 176, 580 ; Melusine, 1878, c. 79 ; Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 204 ; Elworthy, E.E., p. 416.) Men's hair turns grey upon a sudden and violent fright. “ Thy father's beard is turned white with the news." —Shakespeare. Hair is considered to be the seat of strength. (Frazer, The Magic Art , Vol. I, pp. 102, 344 ; cf. the story of Samson.) The Muslim exorcists of India tie a knot in the hair to prevent certain devils from escaping. (Crooke, Islam in India , p. 237.) The women of Leon believe that selling hair is equivalent to selling their souls, (le Braz, Vol. I, p. 367.) In Wales hair, after it has been cut, is carefully collected and hidden away, for to bum it would be injurious to the health. (Rhys, C.F., p. 599.) “ A hairy man's a geary man, but a hairy wife's a witch." (Lean, Vol. II, p. 39.) If a Japanese should set his hair on fire, it is a sign that he will go mad. (Griffis, M.E. , p. 468.) A girl whose lover comes seldom to her, can remedy this by tearing out one of his hairs without his knowledge. Hair should not be combed with a comb which has been used for a dead person ; if this be done, the person using it will die a speedy death. (East Prussia . — Wuttke, P. 214.) If a child’s hair be cut before its seventh year, he will have no courage. (Wolf, Beitrdge, Vol. I, p. 209.) If you dream you are combing your hair, and it is long and fine, you will have many joys of short duration. “ Comb your hair after dark, Comb sorrow to your heart." — Great Britain, India, Vide Arm, Love, Pulling Hair, Nest, Age, Friday. Hair Cutting ; A boy's hair must not be cut till he is seven years old ; this would prevent him getting strong. (Wetterau, Westphalia . Wuttke, p. 202.) 1x8 A DICTIONARY OF If a child’s hair be cut, an elf lock will grow. (Jew. Enc., Vol. IV, p. 31 ; Vol. IX, p. 601.) Hairpin : Hairpins dropping out of the head indicate that someone is thinking of you ( Great Britain), or that you will lose a lover. [Germany.) cf. Shoelace. Hairy Body : If a person’s body is very hairy, it indicates that he will be lucky. [Jew. Enc., Vol. VI, p. 158.) If a man’s chest be devoid of hair, it is a sure sign that he is, or will be, a thief. [Bengal.) If a woman’s body be hairy, she will either be unfaith- ful to her husband or be a widow. [Northern India.) Haizum : Moham. Myth. The horse which Gabriel rode when he led a squadron of three thousand angels against the Koreishites in the famous battle of Bedr. Hakenmann : Tent. Folklore. “ Hook-man ” ; a male nix who was armed with a hook, so that he might drag his victims down into the water. Ham : Throwing ham, lard and other eatables in the fire is considered to be a protection against the house burning. (Wuttke, p. 87.) This is done probably, to appease the spirits of the fire. Hamadryad : Certain kinds of nymphs living in trees and mentioned in classical mythology. Hand : On the night of Hosha’na Rabbah, anyone who tries to read his future from his shadow and does not see the shadow of the right hand, will lose a son during the year ; if he fails to see the left hand, he will lose a daughter ; if a finger, he will lose a friend. [Jew. Enc., Vol. VI, p. 212, quoting Buxtorf.) If a person has cold hands during your marriage, it is a sign that you will die soon. [East Friesland — Wuttke, P- 4I-) Cold hands at the beginning of a journey is an indication that the person will never return. ( Thuringia . — -ib.) “ Cold hands and a warm heart.” ( Great Britain . cf. KaUe Hcinde , warmes Herz ). Shuts enter a person's body by means of the hands ; hence much is made of ablution, (India. Crooke, Vol. I, P-241*) 1 he dried up hand of an executed criminal is a power- ful charm. {India, Crooke, P,RJ.} Vol. II, p. 245.) The hand of a dead man is used to stir the milk when butter will not form, (Brand, Observations , p. 732 ; N.LN.Q., II, 2x5 ; Lady Wilde, Legends , 81 seq., 172.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 119 The Cornish miners sometimes see a dead hand holding a light. This is a sure indication of ill-luck, (le Braz, Vol. I, p. 35, quoting Revue des traditions populaires; Vol. II, p- 474-) On telling fortunes by the hand, see Mrs. John White : Shall I tell you your Fortune, my pretty Maid? Hand of Gadkhali : In popular Indian superstition this_ is the name by which a certain authentic(!) ghost of Gadkhali, a village in Bengal, which was devastated by a cholera epidemic, is designated. The existence of this particular ghost is unquestionably recognized by the Bengal peasantry. Han Siang Dsi : Chin. Myth. The seventh of the Immortals (q.v.). Hantu : Among the Malays the demons or evil spirits are called bv this name ; they are supposed to cause various diseases. (Skeat, Malay Magic ; Tylor, P.C., Vol. II, p. 115. cf . the Ruahs of Jewish superstition.) Thus : Hantu Kalumbahan : causes small-pox. Hantu Kamong : brings on inflammation of the hands and feet. Hantu Pari : sucks the blood of the wounded and thus causes blood to flow. Vide Vampire. (For other kinds of Hantus, See Skeat, Malay Magic.) Hanuman : “ Monkey God ” ; in N. India he is installed at the foundation of every settlement. In Hindu mythology he is the son of the wind and a monkey-nymph. He was the ally of Rama (q.vj in his war against Ravana, the demon king of Lanka [Ceylon). He is represented as huge in stature, golden in colour with a ruby face, and is the hero of numerous exploits. Hanging : The personal belongings or the dismembered parts of the body of a hanged person bring luck. (Wuttke, p. 104 ; cf. Griffith, Chronicles of Newgate ; Lean Vol. II, p. 483.) Vide Hand. Hapi : Egypt. Myth. The dog-headed genius of Amenti. He was associated with the South. Hara-kiri : “ Suicide by means of opening the belly ” of the Japanese is probably a remnant of the belief that a dead man requires attendants in the spirit world to administer to his needs. Vide Horse, Camel, Burial, Sati. 120 A DICTIONARY OF Hare ; In Great Britain, India, Germany (Wuttke, p. 32) and in the Slavic countries it is a bad omen if a hare runs across one’s path. (Elworthy, E.E., p. 31 ; Abbott, p. 106. cf. F.L.J., 1883, p. 355 ; Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 108.) Among the Kirghiz (Schuyler, Vol. II, p. 29), and in Alsace (Lambs, p. 30), if a hare runs across a man’s path while he is on a journey, it forbodes ill luck and he usually turns back. It was believed at one time that hares changed their sex every year. In Chinese superstition the hare conceives by gazing at the moon ; the female of the hare produces her young from the mouth. Like the fox, the hare attains the age of one thousand years, and becomes white when half that period is completed. (Mayer, Chin. Read . Man., p. 233.) Hare’s fat cures bad fingers. {Alsace. — Lambs, p. 30.) In Cornwall, when a girl has loved not wisely but too well, she haunts her deceiver in the shape of a white hare. (Hunt, Pop. Rom., p. 377.) Hare is considered unlucky by sailors. (Bassett, p. 279.) The Albanians refuse to touch hare when it is killed. (Abbott, p. 106.) The Roman augurs considered it an ill omen if a hare crossed their way ; they suspected they would be robbed or come to some mischance. Vide Red Hare, Fisherman. Harmonia : Greek Legend. Wife of Cadmus. She was the proud possessor of a garment and a necklace which had the property of stirring up strife and causing bloodshed, and bringing evil to every possessor. Harp : Vide Teirtus’s Harp. Harpocratos : Gr. Myth. A god of silence. Harpy : " Snatcher ” ; in Classical mythology they were fabulous monsters, rapacious and filthy, having the body and face of a woman and bird’s wings and claws ; they were supposed to act as ministers of divine vengeance. They were malignant creatures ; they snatched up and carried off the souls of the dead, and executed vengeance by seizing or defiling the food of their victims. They were three in number and were called : A ello, Ocypete and Celaeno or Podarge. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 121 Harut : In Mohammedan superstition it is an angel in Babel and is the Aramaic personification of mischief. (Die. Rel. Eth., Vol. VIII, p. 352.) Hat : If a lady dons a gentleman’s hat, it is a sign that she wants to be kissed. ( U.S.A . — Bergen, C.S., p. 63.) The Devil is said to wear a three-cornered hat. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 138.) If you dream you are wearing a torn and dirty hat, you will have damage and dishonour, but if you have one that pleases you, joy, profit, and success. Hatchet : A hatchet is a protection against the machinations of witches. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 354 ; Vol. II, p. 144.) This is probably because it is made of iron (q.v.) Hate : You will be in need if you dream you hate any one. Hathor : Egypt. Myth. : the goddess of mirth, love and social joy. The cow was sacred to her ; she is often represented with a cow’s head and ears. (ii) One of the seven genii or fairies who made their appearance at the birth of a child and foretold its fortune, cf. Bidhatapurusha, Fate, Barca, Norn, Sudicky. Hatif : (Ar.). In Arab superstition it is a spirit that is heard but not. seen. It is generally the communicator of some intelligence in the way of advice, or direction, or warning. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 46.) Hatto : Archbishop of Metz. He was devoured by mice in the mouse-tower situated in a little green island' in the midst of the Rhine, near the town of Bingen, cf Freiherr von Giittingen, Graaf, Widerolf, Adolf. Haunting : Vide Flower, Miser, Usurer. Havfrue : It is the Danish equivalent of a Nixie. Havmand : It is the Danish name for a water-spirit and is the male counterpart of a Havfrue. (Thiele, Danmarks Folkesagn.) Hay : It is lucky to see a load of hay coming towards you (Great Britain, Germany, France, Spain, Bohemia, India). Vide Knife. Head ; A great head is a sign of foolishness. (Hazlitt, p. 308.) The head is sacred among most peoples. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 362 seq.) Headache : The tooth of a corpse cures headaches. (Hannover. — VVUTTKE, p. 102.) A snake’s skin worn round the head cures headaches. (N. Lincolnshire.) . 122 A DICTIONARY OF Headaches may be cured by tying round the head a piece of cloth in which a corpse has been wrapped. (Lady Wilde, p. 82.) Vide Nest. Head-hunting : The Dyaks of Borneo thought that the spirit of the owner of every human head they could procure, would serve them in the next world. Headless Spectres : In the folklore of various people phantoms apparently of murdered people, are met with, whose heads are wanting ; or at times they carry their heads in their hands or under their arms. Ghosts of animals are occasion- ally without a head. These spectres are said to appear mostly in Tyrol. (See Alpenburg, Mythen and Sagen Tirols.) cf. Blemmyce, A-Siras, Acephali. Health : Health can be obtained by drinking the blood of a stork. It is unlucky to say you are very well. (Rhys, C.F., p. 346,) Vide Turquoise. Hearse : It is lucky to see an empty hearse coming towards you, but unlucky if you turn round to look at it. (Great Britain.) Heart : The heart of an unborn child, if carried on the person, is sure to bring about a complete success in the thieving profession. {Silesia.— Tettau und Temme, Volkssagen Ostf reasserts, p. 266.) If a person eats the heart of a bear, he will become a tyrant. (Jews of Minsk.) Hearth : Ghosts frequently come to the family hearth, hence need of cleanliness there. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 292.) Heaven : In popular belief it is a place where there is no sorrow, and everything is happy and peacefuk The good and the upright go to heaven. Hebe : Gr. Myth. The goddess of youth, daughter of Zeus and Hera ; she was cup-bearer of the gods before Gany- mede. She was believed to have the power of restoring youth and beauty. Hebigami : Jap. Myth. The serpent-god possession in Ino, Japan. 123 SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Hecate : Gr. Myth. Identified in later times with Persephone, the goddess of the infernal regions ; she was regarded as presiding over witchcraft and magical rites. She was a goddess combining the characters of moon-goddess, earth-goddess and underworld-goddess. f< Now witchcraft celebrates Pale Hecate's warnings." Shakespeare, Macbeth , ii, I. Hecuba : Greek Legend. She was metamorphosed into a dog, and wandered howling through the country, stoned by its inhabitants. Hedgehog : Hedgehogs foresee a coming storm. They fasten themselves on the dugs of cows and drain off the milk. {Great Britain, India.) In Madagascar hedge- hogs are not eaten for fear of becoming timid. (Frazer, Magic Art , vol. i, p. 117). Heimdal : Teut. Myth. The warder of Asgard, who dwells at the upper end of Bifrost. He can see a hundred leagues by day or by night, can hear the grass or the sheep's wool grow, and needs less sleep than a bird. He summons the gods by blowing on the Gjallarhorn. Heinzelmannchen : In German superstition they are elves who work for people at night. Heitlik : In Vancouver Island it is a snake-like scaly being who darts lightning with his red tongue. If seen, a bit of his tail should be cut off and preserved as an amulet. Hejkal : " Wild man " ; it is the Bohemian name for a Lyesovic. Hekkenfeldt ; In popular belief this, like Blocksberg, was the favourite meeting place of the Danish witches. (Lehmann, A.Z., p, 112.) cf. Brocken, Blakula , Blocks- berg. Hekla : Mt. Helda, in Iceland, was another favourite resort of the Danish witches. (Lehmann, A.Z., p. 112.) cf. Brocken, Blakula , Blocksberg . Hel, Hela : Norse Myth. Daughter of Loki, goddess of the dead and queen of the lower world. Pier dwelling was under one of the roots of the sacred ash-tree Yggdrasil (q.v.) (ii) The underworld itself was also called Hel, Niflhel. Helenus : Greek Legend. A son of Priam and Hecuba ; he was gifted with prophetic powers. Helicon : The fountain which Pegasus produced by striking with his hoofs, and whence poets were fabled to draw their inspirations. 124 A DICTIONARY of Helios : Gr. Myth. The sun-god, represented as driving a four-horse chariot through the heavens. Heliotrope : Clytie was changed into a heliotrope. Hell : In popular belief it is a place for the wicked. It is represented as a place of eternal torture. Satan is the king of hell. Hell-shoon : Vide Helskd. Helsko : Norse Myth. The shoes or sandals that were bound upon the dead man’s feet for his toilsome journey along Helvegr to the other world. Helvegr : Norse Folklore. “ Hell way.” The long, dark way along which a dead man had to go before he reached the other world. Hem : If the hem of a garment turns up at the back, the wearer is destined to get a new one soon. ( Memoirs of the American Folklore Society, IV, p. 142 ; Abbott, p. 100.) Hemann : It is a kind of mischievous forest-spirit of Teutonic and Slavic folklore. Hen : A crowing hen is unlucky. (N. Germany, Tyrol. — Wuttke, p. 33 ; China. — Doolittle, Vol. II, p". 328; Macedonia. — Abbott, p. 106 ; Bengal— Ethnologic du Bengale, p. no.) In Bodethal a black hen is thrown into the water as a peace-offering to the Nixies. (Wuttke, p. 88, quoting K.S., p. 426.) “ A whistling woman and a crowing hen Is neither good for God nor men.” Great Britain. If a woman dreams of a hen, she will be married to a widower with many children. Vide Fruit, Fowl. Hena : In Vancouver Island it is a class of supernatural beings who can fly very rapidly ; they make a loud whistling noise and are identified with quartz crystals. Henta ; It is a magical picture by a village artist ; it is drawn by order of the Nicobarese magician as a cure for diseases and, after recovery, as a potent charm against further attacks. (C. B. Kloss.) Hephaestus : Gr. Myth. A god of fire, especially of volcanic and natural fire, and of the arts, such as pottery-making and metal-working, dependent upon fire. He W'as iden- tified by the Romans with Vulcan. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 125 Hera : Gr. Myth. An Olympian goddess, queen of Heaven, sister and wife of Zeus, whose power she shared. She was the Juno of the Romans. Herb : Herbs plucked on Ascension Day are especially good for medicinal purposes. (Wuttke, p. 21.) Hercules : Class. Myth, A hero, son of Zeus and Alcmene ; he is celebrated for his strength. Juno infuriated against him at his birth, sent two huge serpents to devour him ; the baby who was already strong, squeezed the serpents to death. Hercules is noted for his twelve heroic deeds, viz., (i) he squeezed to death the lion of Nemea ; (ii) he des- troyed the Hydra of Lernae ; (iii) he captured alive the wild boar of Erymanthea ; (iv) he subjugated the deer with the metal feet ; (v) he shot with arrows the birds of Lake Stymphale ; (vi) he conquered the bull sent by Neptune against Minos of Crete ; (vii) he slew Diomede, king of Thracia, who fed his horses with human flesh ; (viii) he was victorious over the Amazons (q.v.) ; (ix) he cleansed the stables of Augeas by forcing the river Alphea to flow over them ; (x) he fought with and killed Geryon, whose troops he took ; (xi) he got the golden apples from the garden of the Hesperides and (xii) he delivered Theseus from the infernal regions. Besides these, he accomplished a host of other heroic deeds. For example, he pressed to death the giant Anteus, son of the Earth, under his arms ; killed the brigand Cacus, delivered Hesione from the monster which was going to devour her, separated the mountains Calpe and Abyla, freed Prometheus chained on Mt. Caucasus, and lastly killed the Centaur, Nessus, who was going to ravish his wife Deianera. This last victory indirectly caused * him to lose his life. Vide Nessus , Deianera , Cacusy Hesione . Hermes : Gr. Relig. An Olympian god, son of Zeus and Maia. His chief character was that of a herald and messenger of the gods. Further, he was a god of science and invention, of eloquence, cunning, trickery and theft, of treasure- trove and luck, of youth and gymnastic exercises and he was a conductor of the dead to Hades. Hermes Trismegistus : “ The thrice great.” This was the name given by the Greeks to the Egyptian god Thoth. (q.v ) Hermione : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Menelaus and Helen, She became the wife of Neoptolemus, and later of Orestes.. A DICTIONARY OF 126 Hermotimos : In a story by Pliny, the prophetic soul of Hermotimos went out from time to time to visit distant regions. During one of these absences, his wife thinking him to be dead, burnt his lifeless body on a funeral pyre. When the poor soul came back, there was no longer a dwelling for it to animate. Herne the Hunter : English Legend. An ancient keeper of Windsor Park, who is believed to walk in the forest at midnight around an old oak, which still bears his name. He is said to be a malevolent spirit. (Hazlitt, p. 314.) “ Herne the hunter, Sometime a keeper here in Windsor Forest, Doth all the winter-time, at still midnight, Walk round about an oak, with great ragg’d horns ; And makes milch kine yield blood, and shakes a chain In a most hideous and dreadful manner.” Shakespeare, Merry Wives of Windsor, iv. 4. cf. Wild Huntsman, Grand Veneur, Wodan, Frau Holle. Herregudsbuk : “ The Lord’s goat ” ; a Norwegian field-spirit. Hershef : Egypt. Relig. The tutelary deity of Heracleopolis ; a local form of Osiris. Hershef was known to the Greeks under the name of Arsaphes. Hesione : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Laomedon, king of Troy. She was offered to a sea-monster, but was rescued by Hercules. Hesperides : Gr. Myth. Daughters of Atlas. They were three in number and were the possessors of a garden, the trees of which bore golden apples. This garden was guarded by a dragon with a hundred heads. Hercules killed this dragon and thus accomplished the eleventh of his twelve famous deeds. Hestia : Gr. Myth. A divinity of the family hearth corres- ponding to the Roman Vesta. Hexe : The witches are so called in Germany. Hiccough : If one has the hiccough it is a sign that someone is thinking of him. (Great Britain, Bohemia, India.) Hiccough can be cured by a cross of paper, wetted and stuck on the forehead. Hiccough, or in Macedonia choking over food or drink (Abbott, p. in), is a sign that some backbiter is at work ; the method of curing it is to guess his name. (Greece. — • Lawson, p. 331.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 127 Hideous : Evil spirits usually take hideous human forms. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 35.) Himinbjorg : Norse Myth. Heimdal’s house in Asgard. Hinomisaki : A kind of possession, to be found in Bitchfl and Bingo, Japan. It is a form of Kitsune-tsuki. (q.v.) Hinzelmannchen : An occasional name of the Kobolds in Germany. Vide Heinzdmannchen. Hippocrene : “ Fountain of the horse.” A fountain which flowed by the sides of Helicon. It was consecrated to the Muses and derived its name from Pegasus having made the fountain flow by striking his hoofs on a rock. Hiranyaksha : Hind. Myth. “ Golden Eye ” ; a daitya who dragged the earth to the depths of the ocean ; he was killed by Vishnu in the form of a boar. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. X2I.) Hlidhskjalf : Norse Myth. The cloud-throne above Asgard, whence Odin views the deeds of men, elves and giants in the lower worlds. Ho : “ The Crane.” Next to the F&ig (q.v.), this bird is the most famous in Chinese legends. It reaches a fabulous age. When 600 years old, it drinks but no longer takes food. Human beings have repeatedly been changed into its shape, and it constantly manifests a peculiar interest in human affairs. (Mayer, Chin. Read. Man., p. 56.) Hoarseness : This can be cured by wrapping round the neck, before going to sleep, a discarded stocking belonging to the left foot. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 82.) Hobgoblin : Another name for Puck. Hoder : Norse Myth. Hoder killed Balder with a dart of mistletoe, given to him by Loki ; mistletoe was the only thing on earth which had not taken an oath to do Balder harm. Cf. Hotherus. Hog : In Celebes it is believed that earthquakes are caused by the world-supporting hog rubbing himself against a tree. Vide Pig. Hohenzollem : The Hohenzollern family is said to have the apparition of the White Lady ; she is the ancestress of this family. Hold : Folklore. The offspring of a witch by an evil spirit (cf. Incubi, Succubi, Cuichi Supai, TuUUu Supai), often supposed to be an elf causing disease. They assume all forms, sometimes butterflies, sometimes worms, etc. 128 A DICTIONARY OF Holda : Teut. Folklore. A female spirit or sprite who leads the Host of the Dead in the mountains and in the wild ride through the air. She is also connected with the fruitfulness of both earth and women, and is often called Frau Holle. She could ride on the sea and waves, and was feared by sailors. (Thorpe, N.M., Vol. I, p. 204.) Vide Wild Hunt. Holdiken : Same as Hold. Holger : In Danish legend, a king who sits at a table, through which his beard is growing, cf . Barbarossa ; Arthur, King ; Tell. Vide Charlemagne, Morgaine la Faye, Papillon. Holla’s Troop : The German equivalent of the Wild Hunt. Holle Frau : Vide Holda. Holle kreish : The naming ceremony of a baby girl among the Jews of Germany is designated by this name. (For the origin see Perxes in Gr'dtz Jubelschrift, 1887, p. 26.) Holly : When hollies have many berries on them, it foretells a severe winter. ( Great Britain.) Holly must not be kept in the house after New Year’s Day, it brings ill luck, cf Goose. Holzweiber : Same as Buschweiber. Honey : All kinds of precious stones cast into honey, become more brilliant thereby, each according to its colour. Hoof : The Devil is supposed to be able to assume a variety of forms, but he cannot rid himself of his horns and hoofs. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 249.) Vide Cloven Hoof, Horn. Hoop : If a hoop comes off a cask on Christmas Eve, someone in the house will die that year. (Ragner.) Hoopoe : The country people of Sweden consider the appear- ance of a hoopoe as a presage of war. (Brand, Observations, p. 701.) Horae : Gr. Myth. The three goddesses, daughters of Zeus and Themis, who followed the principal gods or some heroes, and were the guardians of the gates of Heaven. They were : Thalia , Carpo and Auxo . Horn ; It is unlucky to keep horns in a room. [Great Britain , India) The stag’s horn is believed to give warning of an evil eve, and to be a safeguard against its malignant influences (Spain) ; the wound from a stag’s horn never heals. (Great Britain) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 129 “ The fear of the evil eye of a woman is very prevalent in Spain ; but the panacea is to drink horn shavings/' (Murray's Handbook to Spain , by Richard Ford, 3rd Edition, 1855, p. 632.) The tip of an ox's horn is used extensively in Africa, in the Philippine Islands and in America in order to extract blood and the devil along with it. (Bastian, Der Mensch , Vol. II, p. 117.) The horn is a constant attribute of the Devil. “No man means evil but the devil, and we shall know him by his horns." Shakespeare, Merry Wives of Windsor , v, 2. cf. Hoof Horse : If a person suffering from whooping cough, asks advice of a man riding on a piebald horse, the disease may be cured by doing what the rider tells him to do. A piebald horse is a sign of luck. (Great Britain.) Horses have the power of seeing ghosts and foretelling deaths. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 83.) In the Harz district of Germany, a horse is often buried alive in the belief that this would prevent other horses from being lost from the stable. (Prohle in Zeitschrift fur deutsche Mythologie, I, 202.) It is lucky to dream of horses. ( Great Britain , India.) In Norway when a thunderstorm is brewing, the water-sprite comes in the shape of a horse. (Bassett, p. 154, quoting Faye, Norsk Sagen , 55.) In Bohemia it is considered lucky to see a white horse. A Pawnee warrior's horse is slain on the grave, to be ready for him to mount again in the spirit world, cf. Camel , Sati, Boat. Horseshoe : It is extremely lucky to find a horseshoe. (Great Britain. — Elworthy, E.E.f p. 216 et seq . ; France , Spain , Germany. — Wuttke, p. 36 ; Hazlitt, 330 ; See Law- rence, R. H., The Magic of the Horseshoe , Boston, 1898.) A horseshoe fastened inside a door will preserve from the influence of witches and the evil eye (Great Britain) and bring luck. (Swabia, Tyrol, East Prussia , etc. — Wuttke, p. 97 ; Elworthy, E.E., p. 216 et seq.) Horns : Egypt. Myth. The hawk-headed god of ancient Egypt. He is represented also as a hawk. Hosha'na Rabba : Among the Jews it is the popular name for the seventh day of the Feast of Booths. * . • * I30 A DICTIONARY OF Ho Sian Gu : Chin. Myth. The seventh and the last of the Immortals (q.v.). She is the only woman among these divine eight (Chin. Volksmarchen, p. 74.) She became immortal and disappeared from mortal view. She is sa-id to have been seen in a.d. 75® > floating- upon a, cloud, and again some years later in the city of Canton. (Mayers, Chin. Read. Man., p. 56.) Host • Various superstitions are attached to the host or the sacred wafer of the Mass, (cf . Jew. Enc., Vol. VI, p. 482.) Hotei : A Japanese god of luck, who is represented as having an enormous belly ; he carries a sack on his back and a fan in his hand. Hotherus : Legend. Son of a Swedish king ; he is said to have killed Balder with Miming’s sword, cf. Hoder. Houri : Moham. Myth. They are female beings who share, with other women, the society of the blessed. They are shining and pure and are, like all other inhabitants of Paradise, exempt from physical suffering. “ Femme du paradis de Mahomet.” Petit Larousse, p. 476. cf. Apsaras, Siren, Peri. House : Rats leave a house before a fall. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 24.) Vide Building. Howl : The howling of a dog denotes a speedy death in the house. (Wuttke, p. 10.) . The plaintive howling of a dog in the night portends a death in some family in the vicinity of the animal. (Great Britain, France, India, Japan. — Griffis, M.E., p. 468.) Hoymann : In Oberpfalz, Wodan (q.v.) appears as a frightful forest-spirit and is called either Hoymann or Wuzl. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, pp. 337- 342-) Hu : It is the Chinese name for a fox (q.v.), a beast whose nature is highly tinged with supernatural qualities. (Mayers, Chin. 'Read. Man., p. 61.) Hulderfolk : Same as Wild Hunt. Huldrick, St, ; He helps to destroy mice and other vermin. Humming Bird : They are said to pick crocodiles’ teeth. Hunchback : It is lucky to meet a hunchback (Great Britain, India). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 131 The camel got the “ hunch ” because he was never satisfied. If you laugh at a hunchback, you will get a hump yourself. [India, Persia .) Hunger : Vide Bread, Sack, Pin, Clanking . Hunmamit : Egypt. Myth. They are either birds or beings with birds' heads. Hurakan : In Central America he is the god of tempest, lightning and thunder. His name has been adopted into European languages as hurricane (Eng.), huracan (Sp.), ouragan (Fr.), Orkan (Ger.), orkan (Dan., Swed,), uvahan (Russ.), etc. Hurricane : Vide Storm. Hiitchen : A German household spirit. Hutzelmannchen : Same as Heinzelmannchen. Hwang Ch’uP'ing : Chin. Myth. One of the Sien or Immortals (q.v.). (Mayers, Chin. Read . Man., p. 74.) Hyades : A cluster of stars in the head of Taurus, supposed by ancients to bring rain when they rose with the sun. Hydra of Lerne : Greek Fable. A monstrous serpent with seven heads. As soon as one head was cut off, another grew in its place. To kill the monster it was necessary to cut off the seven heads in one blow. Hercules (q.v.) destroyed this monster and thus accomplished the second of his" twelve famous deeds, cf. Dragon . Hydrophobia : In Arabia it was believed that hydrophobia could be cured by drinking royal blood (Hastings, Die. Bib., Vol. IV, p. 603a); or, in England, by almost smothering the patient between two feather beds. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 502.) Hyldemoer : “ Mother elder ” ; in Danish superstition it is the spirit of the elder tree. Hymen : Gr. Myth. God of marriage, son of Apollo. Hyperion : Gr. Myth. A Titan, father of Helios the sun-god. In later mythology he is identified with Apollo, god of manly beauty. Hypermnestra : Gr. Myth. One of the Danaides (q.v.). She was the only one who spared her husband, Lynceus. Hypnos : Gr. Myth. A god of slumber; son of Erebus and Night. , i32 A DICTIONARY OF 1 lapetus : Class. Myth. A Titan, father of Prometheus, Atlas and Epimetheus ; hence he was regarded as the ancestor of mankind. larbas : Class. Myth. King of the Getules, son of Zeus. He wanted to marry Didon who, however, preferred death to union with him. Xblis : Moham. Myth. The wicked angel who, assisted by his son, tempts mortals. He was cursed for refusing to prostrate himself before Adam. He has command of the jinni (q.y.), who are his agents with men. In Arabic demonology he is the Devil incarnate and is the chief of the Shaitans. (Lane, ASM. A,, p, 30 ; Meakin, The Moors , p. 353.) Icarus : Gr. Myth. A son of Daedalus, who, on account of his wax wings melting, fell and was drowned in the sea. Ice : Witches make the water freeze. (Lehmann, A.Z., p. in.) To dream of ice denotes that your desired is faithful and free from choleric passions. Idaean Mother ; An epithet of the Great Mother. Idiocy : St. Gildas is the guardian angel of idiots. Vide Drowning. Idolatry : It is not restricted to savage tribes. Thus, though the ancient Vedic religion did not recognize it, the Brah- mans, recognized followers of the Vedic doctrines, are great idolaters. Even in modern Christianity it is largely practised. (See Tylor, Early History of Mankind Chap. VI ; Primitive Culture , pp. 153 etc.) Idomeneus ; Gr. Myth. King of Crete, grandson of Minos. He was one of the heroes of the Trojan war. Ifrifc : In Arabic demonology it is a powerful evil jinn. (Lane, ASM.A., p. 27.) Igarat bat Mahlat ; Jewish Folklore. A queen of the demons who rides in her chariot and has a train of eighteen myriads of demons. {Jew. Enc.t Vol. IV, p. 5x7.) Vide Lilith . igjgi : Babvl. Myth. A group of cruel heavenly spirits under the god Amu. In incantations they are associated with the Annunaki. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 133 Ignis Fatuus : A phosphorescent light seen hovering over marshy ground. When approached, the ignis fatuus appears to recede, and finally to vanish, which led to the belief that it was the work of a mischievous sprite, intentionally leading benighted travellers astray. Also called Jack-o’-Lantern, Will-o’-the-wisp. “ An ignis fatuus that bewitches And leads Men into Pools and Ditches.” Butler, Hudibras (1663). cf. Latawiec , Khu, Irrlicht, Feu Follet. Igumgehele : “Glutton” ; this was the name of a Zulu club. Ihanaga-hime: Jap. Myth. “ The rock-long lady.” Daughter of a mountain-god, sister of Konohana Sakuya-hime who married Ninigi (q.v.) Iha-touchi-biko : Jap. Myth. “ Rock-castle-prince.” A god who was procreated by the gods Izanagi and Izanami (q.v.) Ildico : A Teutonic princess by whose hand Attila was rumoured to have been slain on the night of their marriage. Iliad : If the fourth book of Iliad be laid under the pillow of a patient suffering from ague, it will cure him at once. Illness : All illnesses are caused by witches and other evil spirits. Vide Baytree , Burial , Grave , Sickness. Irnbubuzi ; “ Groan-maker ” ; this was the name either of a Zulu assegai (Tylor, P.C., p. 275), or of an axe that brought victory to the owner (Haggard, Nada the Lily, p. 114.) Imilozi : “ Whistlers.” The ancestral manes (q.v.) of the Zulus, who talk in a low whistling tone. Immortals : These are the eight divine beings of Chinese superstition. Vide Sien, Ying , Chow , Peach . Imp : Folklore. A kind of malignant spirit closely allied to the goblins, elves, poltergeister, brownies and fairies. Inada-hime: Jap. Myth. “Rice-land-lady.” A goddess, probably the wife of a Rain-storm god. Inari: Jap. Myth. A male Grain-deity. He is a comprehensive answerer of prayer for a good harvest and for the restora- tion of stolen property (Aston, Shinto, p. 17.) Shrines of Inari are to be seen in every village, and even in many houses, and may be recognised by two figures of forces which stand before them. Inca : American-Indian Myth. The sun-god of the Peruvians. IH A DICTIONARY OF Incas, Gold of the : Vide Treasure Lost. Incest : The offspring of an incestuous union is a monster (See Ethnologie du Bengale, , p. 75 , cf. Durkheim, la Prohibition de Vinceste, Annee social., Vol. 1 ; Griffis, Mikado’s Empire, p. 472; Frazer, Psyche’s Task*, p. 51; A. W. Niewenhuis, Quer durch Borneo, Vol. 11, p. 99.) Incubus : It was supposed to have been an evil spirit who descended upon persons in their sleep with the purpose of having carnal intercourse with women and producing supernatural births. In the Middle Ages their existence wag recognized by the Ecclesiastical and Civil Law. (Dalyell, Dark. Sup., p. 599-) “ That fende that goth a nyght, Wymmen full oft to gyle, Incubus is named by right : And gvleth men other while, Succubus is that wyght.” (Caxton’s Chronicle, Description of Walys) . “ The evil demons who trouble people in their sleep, the Incubi and the Succubi.” Tylor, Early History of Mankind, I, 7. . • • „ t T7 ... cf. Succubus, Cuichi Supai, Tululu Supai, Khu, J noting, Latawiec. Indigestion : This can be cured by wearing red coral. Indra : Hind. Myth. The Heaven-God, who, according to a Buddhist version, pursues Rahu with his thunderbolt and rips open his belly so that, although he can swallow the heavenly bodies, he lets them slip again. (Bastian, Ostlich. Asien, etc., quoted in Ethnologie du Bengale, pp. 101 seq.) In-d : “ Fish-man.” In Corea, a sort of siren that is supposed to inhabit the Sea of Japan. It is six or seven feet long SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY Ino : Gr. Myth. A daughter of Cadmus, who, after her mad paramour Athamas had slain one of her two sons, threw herself and the other son Melicertes into the sea. was changed into the sea-goddess Leucothea. She Insanity : Vide Madness. Instep : If your instep is high enough to allow water to flow under it, you are of good descent. ( Brookline , Mass. — Bergen, C.S., p. 34.) Trmgami : It is the name of the dog-god possession, said to be found in Bitchu, Awa, Tosa and parts of Kyushu in Japan. Invisibility : To become invisible go to the churchyard at a quarter of an hour before midnight, dig out a dead body, take the shirt off the corpse and put your own on "it and dress yourself in that of the corpse ; but all this must be completed before it strikes midnight. (Tyrol. — Zin- gerle, Sitten, p. 38. See Jew. Enc., Vol. XI, p. 600.) A stone called Alectoria (q.v.) renders the wearer invisible; so does Agate. The right eye of a bat carried in the waistcoat pocket, makes a man invisible. (Bohemia. — Grohmann, p. 58.) The blood from the genitals of an innocent boy makes a thief invisible. (Strack, p. 22.) Vide Dog's Blood. Io : Gr. Myth. The daughter of the river-god Inachus. She was changed into a heifer by Hera who also set a hundred- eyed Argus to watch over her. Irial : In Blanche Bay it is a spirit and not a ghost. Iris : Class. Myth. A messenger of the gods who was changed into a rainbow by Juno. Iron : The Oriental jinni dread iron so much that even its very name is a charm against them ; in European folk- lore iron drives away fairies and elves and destroys their power ; similarly, witches are kept at bay by iron instru- ments. (Lane, Vol. I, p. 30; Grimm, D.ML/pp. 435, 465, 1056 ; Bastian, Mensch, Vol. II, pp. 265, 287 ; Vol. Ill, p. 204; Tylor, P.C., Vol. I, p. 127 ; Wuttke, pp. 15, 20, 122, 220 ; Jewish — Blau, p. 159 ; India, Ethnologic du Bengale, pp. 92, 133 ; Celtic. — Rhys, Vol. I, p. 325 ; Elworthy, E.E., p. 221 ; Bassett, p. 19.) Irrlicht : The German name for a Will-o’-the-wisp or an Ignis fatuus (q.v.). Yy. A DICTIONARY OF 136 Ishtar : Assvro-Babyl. Myth. The chief goddess of the pantheon, the Earth-Mother, goddess of the reproductive forces of nature ; with the Assyrians, goddess of war, pictured with bow and arrow and sometimes clothed in flame. She is probably the same as the other goddess worshipped under various names throughout Eastern Asia. (See Sir J. G. Frazer, Adonis, Attis and Osiris3.) cf. Astarte, Great Mother. Ishum : Babyl. Myth. A deity of a local character. Isis: Egypt. Myth. Wife and sister of Osiris (q.v.), and mother of Horus. She was a goddess of medicine, marriage and agriculture, and the personification of the first Egyptian civilization. .She and her husband were the chief deities of the Egyptian pantheon. Ismene : Gr. Myth. Daughter of (Edipus and Jocosta, sister of Antigone. Israfil : Moham. Myth. The angel who brings the orders of Allah to their proper destination and who puts the souls into the bodies. Itch : The itch can be cured by bathing in the river on a Good Friday. (Panzer, Beitmge znr deut. Myth., Vol. I, p. 258). Ithunn : Norse Myth. She was the wife of Bragi and had the golden apples of youth in her keeping. Itongo : The Itongo of the Zulus is the shade of an ancestor which comes to him to warn him of some approaching danger. (?) (Haggard, Nada the Lily, pp. 28, 61, etc.) Ixion : Gr. Myth. A king of the Lapithes, who was taken into Heaven by Zeus. He was deficient in respect to Juno and as a punishment, was thrown by Zeus into the infernal regions, where he was condemned to be bound to a flaming wheel and turned round and round eternally. He became the ancestor of the Centaurs. Izanagi and Izanami : They were two deities of the Shinto religion, “ symbols of Divine Will and Wisdom, or the Monad of Life and the Monad of Form, or Spirit and Matter.” (Gaskell, D.S.L.S.M., p. 403.) With these two deities Japanese myth begins (Aston, Shinto, pp. 21 seq.) From Izanami's vomit, faeces and urine were bom deities who personify the elements of metal, water and clay. Izuna : The human-fox possession of Shinamo, in Japan, is called by this name. Vide Ninko. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 137 J Jacinth : This stone is dedicated to January. Jack-o’-Lantern : Another name for the Will-o’-the-wisp or the Ignis Fatuus (q.v.). Vide Knife, Swearing. Jackal : The jackal is the lion’s provider ; it hunts with, and provides the lion with food by starting prey in the same manner as the dogs start the game. In India a jackal is endowed with all the attributes of the fox of European folklore. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, P- 243-) Jack Frost : Frost personified. Jagannath, Car of : The Hindus believe that if they are run over and crushed by the wheels of this car they will go to heaven. ( Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 87). Jahi : “ Harlot.” In the Avesta, she is a fiend of a particularly malicious type. She embodies the spirit of whoredom destructive to mankind. jalpari : In the Panjab it is the name of a water-fairy, which can be conciliated by offering a lamb and flowers on the banks of the watercourse. ( Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 99.) Vide Fruit. Jalyogini : In the Panjab it is a spirit which occupies wells and streams, and casts spells on women and children, causing sickness and even death. (Rose.) Jang Go : Chin. Myth. The second of the eight Immortals who was originally a white mouse. {Chin. V olksmdrchen, p. 290.) January : Vide Amethyst, Garnet, Jacinth, Frost. Jason : Gr. Myth. Vide Golden Fleece. Jaundice : Jaundice can be cured by drinking water in which something yellow has been cooked. (Schiffer, Ur quell, Vol. V, p. 290 ; Jew. Enc., Vol. V., p. 426.) A Bohemian remedy for jaundice is as follows : Take a living tench, tie it to your bare back and carry it about with you for a whole day. The tench will turn yellow and die. Then throw it into'running water, and your jaundice will depart with it. (Grohmann, p. 230 ; Frazer, G.B a., Vol. Ill, p. 23.) Jealousy : If your knee itches, you are jealous. {Boston, Mass.) Vide Waters of Jealousy, Knee. A DICTIONARY OF 138 Jehan-mima : A mirror belonging to Jamshid, in which the whole world was reflected. (Beck, Key to Neupersische Konversations — Grammatik, p. 13.) Jhoting : In the Deccan it is the spirit of a youth dying unmarried and leaving no relatives. It lives in trees, ruins or burial grounds ; it personifies absent husbands, and leads wayfarers into pools and drowns them. cf. Incubus, Cuichi Supai, Tultilu Supai, Ignis Fatuus, Khu, Latawiec. Jiliiyct : In Bihar, it is a night-fiend which takes the shape of a night-bird, and is able to suck the blood of any person whose name it hears. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 264.) jinn : (PI. jinni) Muham. Myth. An order of spirits lower than angels, said to have the power of appearing in human and animal forms and to exercise supernatural influence over men. They are mostly servants of Iblis. In eating they use the left hand. In whatever form they may appear, they will always have some animal characteristic, such as a paw in place of a hand. (Jew. Enc., Vol. IV, p. 520.) Vide Ankle-bone, Iron, Stumbling, Tooth. Jnun : The Moors call the Jinni by this name. The Jnfxn are usually supposed to assume the form of all animals — mostly however, frogs or toads. “ Hence it is believed that anybody who kills or hurts one of these creatures will have fever or die in consequence ; and if a frog is found in a house or tent, it is politely asked to go away or is gently removed with a shoe.” (Westermarck, The Belief in Spirits in Morocco, p. 13.) Jocasta : Gr. Myth. Mother and wife of QEdipus (q.v.). She, on learning that she was her husband’s mother, com- mitted suicide by hanging herself. John Dory : Many superstitions are connected with this little fish. It is called Peter’s fish from the legend that in its mouth was found the penny with which the temple tax was paid, and that the spots on either side of its mouth were caused by the apostle’s thumb. (Bassett, pp. 259 et seq.) Jonah and the Whale : Jonah, a Hebrew prophet, was cast overboard during a storm. He was swallowed by a whale, and remained in its belly for three days and three nights before he was cast out. (St. Matth. xii. 40 ; cf . Bassett, pp. 237-239.) Jorth : Norse Myth. The earth as a goddess or giantess. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 139 Juju : The native West African name for a fetish ; also called Grigri. June : Vide Agate . Jung Li Kuan : Chin. Myth. The first of the eight Immortals. He has the power, beside others, of flying through the air. {Chin. Volksmarchen, p. 69.) Juno : Class. Myth. Wife of Zeus, daughter of Saturn, and the goddess of marriage. The Greeks called her Hera. Poets consider her to have been a haughty, jealous and vin- dictive woman. Jupiter : Rom. Myth. An ancient god of the Heavens, corres- ponding to the Greek Zeus (q.v.). Jurojin : Jap. Myth. A god of luck, a variation of Fukurokuju. Juventas : Class. Myth. A nymph who was turned into a fountain by Zeus. This fountain is said to have the property of rejuvenating anyone bathing in it. K Ka-di : Babyl. Myth. A patron deity of Dur-ilu, a town situated near the Elamitic frontier. Kagu-tsuchi: Jap. Myth. A god of fire. In giving birth to him Izanami was burnt so that she sickened, and lay down and died. Izanagi, in his grief and rage, slew him, thereby generating a number of other deities, two of whom Take-mika-tsuchi and Futsumushi were favourite objects of worship in later times. (Aston, Shinto, p. 23). Kali ; Hind. Myth. Devi in her malignant form is usually designated by the name of Kali, “the black”; she is portrayed as dripping with blood, encircled with snakes and adorned with skulls. (For a description, see Ethnologie du Bengale , p. 57, quoting S. C. Bose, The Hindus as they are , p. 137.) Kaliya : Hind. Myth. A king of the serpents who was sub- jugated by Krishna (q.v.j. Kama: Hind. Myth. A god of love corresponding to our Cupid. He is represented as a beautiful youth riding a parrot and attended by nymphs. He carries a bow of sugar-cane with a bowstring of bees, and each arrow is tipped with a flower, cf. Cupid, Eros. K&ma-dhenu : Hind. Myth. The cow which grants all desires. (Dowson, H.C.D. , p. 147.) A DICTIONARY OF 140 Kami: The ordinary Japanese word for god. It is applied to many other things besides deities, such as nobles, the authorities, etc. The Kami “ are high, swift, good, rich, living, but not infinite, omnipotent and omniscient. . . Not only human beings, but birds, beasts, plants, trees, seas and mountains and all other things whatsoever which deserve to be dreaded and revered for the extraordinary and pre-eminent powers which they possess, are called Kami.” (Aston, Shinto, pp. 5 seq.) The Kamis possess two essential qualities without which it would be impossible to recognise them as deities, viz., sentiency and super-human power. They are of two classes : Nature-gods and Man-gods ; the first as a result of personification, the second of deification. Almost any Kami may send rain, bestow prosperity in trade, avert or cure sickness, or cure sterility, and so on. Kamu-musubi: Jap. Myth. “Divine growth.” A god of Growth. Kappa : A Japanese water-demon who swallows boys who go down to swim without leave. (Conway, Demonology, Vol. I, p. 1x2.) Karlagatch : A little bird whose tail is always twitching. If you keep this tail about you, it will ward off ill luck. ( Turkestan . — Schuyler, Vol. II, p. 30.) Kasyapa : A Vedic sage to whom some hymns are attributed. All authorities agree in assigning to him a large part in the work of creation. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 153.) As this word means “ tortoise,” all creatures are said to be descendants of K&syapa. Katie King : One of the best known examples of the modern materialization theory. With Florence Cook of Hackney as medium, Cook materialized (?) the spirit of Katie King, so that she appeared in human form. For a full description of this interesting experiment, vide Material- ization of Katie King; Podmore, Modem Spiritualism, Vol. II, p. 154, etc. ; and for an explanation, Lehmann, Aberglaube und Zauberei, p. 327, etc. Kaya-nu-hime: “ Reed-lady.” A Japanese goddess. Kebhsnauf : Vide Qebhsnauf. Kephu : It is the Karen wizard’s stomach going forth in the shape of a head and entrails to devour the souls of men, so that they die. It corresponds to our own vampire (q.v.), (Cross, Karens, p. 312.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 141 Ker : Gr. Myth. A ghost or disembodied soul, often repre- sented as a winged mannikin. Frequently he was an avenging spirit, a spreader of disease and pollution. (PI. Keres.) Keraunia : “thunder-bitten”; an epithet of Semele. Ketu : Hind. Myth. A monster who causes an eclipse by devouring the moon ; he is represented as being red in colour (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 19; Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 102). cf. Rdhu, Maboya, Aracho. Key : The iron keys of a synagogue placed under the pillow of a dying child release him from death’s grasp. {Jew. line., Vol. IV, p. 486.) A key kept under the pillow of a sleeping child protects him from the machinations of evil spirits and witches. {India.) Vide Knife, Iron, Scissors. Keyhole : This is one of the favourite entrances of a mara. (Simrock, Mythologie, p. 545 ; Wuttke, p, 161.) cf. Knothole. Kha : The Arabic letter Ivha, representing khair “ good,” is considered lucky by the Mohammedans. (Me akin, The Moors, p. 356.) cf. Shin. Khabish : An Indian demon who resembles the Masan (q.v.) in his malignant nature and his fondness for burial grounds. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. I, p. 260.) Khonpa: Siamese : “ Men of the Wood ’’—apes. cf. Monkey, Banmdnush. Khu ; (PL Khuu). Egypt. Myth. The demons. A khu is generally a wretched, wandering, unhappy, hungry being, a sort of outcast from the great crowd of the dead and other spirits. The Khuu of women dying in childbirth aim especially at causing infants to die. The Khuu of suicides, executed criminals and shipwrecked sailors are partly tormented and miserable. They appear suddenly to terrify the living, preferably in the neighbourhood of cemeteries, cause innumerable ills, violate women in lonely places, cause animals to die, in order to satisfy their craving for flesh. “ A Khu is a shining translucent part of the spiritual economy of a man which dwelt with his soul in the SS.hu or spiritual body.” — Budge, Book of the Dead, Vol. I, p. lxii. cf. Incubus, Succubus, Jhoting, Cuichi Supai, Tidulu Supai, Ignis Fatuus. A DICTIONARY OF 142 Khwan : Chin. Myth. A fish of enormous length and breadth dwelling in that dark and vast ocean in the North, called the Pool of Heaven. The fish sometimes changes itself into a bird called Phang. ( Writings of Kwang-tze, Bk. I, Pt. I, 3-) Kincardines : This family has the apparition of the Bloody Hand. King : To dream of a King denotes gain, honour, and joy. (For other superstitions, see Elworthy, E.E., p. 426, seq. ; Sir J. G. Frazer, The Magic Art1). Kingfisher : A kingfisher hanged by the bill shows what quarter the wind is by converting the breast to that point of the horizon whence the wind blows. (Brand, Obser- vations, Vol. Ill, p. 240.) The cry of a kingfisher, heard on the right, indicates success in business ; if on the left, it is an evil omen {Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 113 ; cf. Ellis, Ewe-speaking Peoples, p. 96.) Kirin : Corean Folklore. It has the body of a deer and the tail of an ox. On its forehead is a single soft horn. It is said never to tread on or injure any living being ; it is the emblem of perfect rectitude. It is considered as the noblest form of animal creation, and its appearance on earth is regarded as a happy omen. (Griffis, Corea, P- 303-) Kirkegrim : In Danish superstition it is a Nisse attached to a church. Kiss : If a lady dons a gentleman’s hat, it is a sign that she wants to be kissed. (Bergen, C.S., p. 63.) If you dream you are kissing a pretty maid, it shows you have some evil design. Vide Dress, Lip, Prick. Kite : To cure rheumatic pains kill a kite on a Tuesday, cut up the bones and tie them to the affected part ; this brings about an immediate cure. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 250 ; Punjab Notes and Queries, III, 81.) The flesh of a kite gives keen eyesight. Kite’s foot is worn in South Africa to give swiftness to the feet. (Tylor.) Kitsune-tsuki : The fox-possession of Japan. Kitten : To dream of kittens denotes the birth of children. Kla : The vital soul among the Gold Coast negroes is called by this name. Vide Sisa. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY m Klabautermann : In German folklore this is the name of the guardian spirit of the ship. He dwells in the mast and warns the sailors of any imminent danger by certain noises. (Bassett, p. 152 et seq.) Klausenberg : A min of a castle in Germany, said to be haunted by a female spirit of a malicious type. Klekanicek : In Bohemia this is a kind of spirit which gets hold of children remaining out of doors after the Ave Maria has been rung. (Grohmann, p. 15.) Klekanitsa : Moravian Folklore. A spirit who stalks around after the evening chimes and entraps children she still finds out of doors, cf. Klekanicek, Btib&k , Bogey . Klytemnestra : Gr. Myth. Wife of Agamemnon, symbolic of seductive sensation nature allied to the desire mind. (Gaskell, D.S.L.S.M., p. 435.) Knee : If your knee itches, you are jealous. ( Boston , Mass.) Elephants have no knees. Knife : Crossed knives denote a quarrel. (Great Britain } India.) If you let a knife accidentally drop on the floor, it is a sign that you will receive a visit from a gentleman. (Great Britain.) In Transylvania they will carefully see that no knife is left lying with the sharp edge upwards so long as a corpse remains in the house, or else the soul will be forced to ride on the blade. (Elworthy, E.E., p. 223.) Jack-o’-Lanterns may be driven away by throwing a knife or a key at them. (Silesia, Mecklenburg . — Wuttke, p. 220 ; Thorpe, Northern Mythology.) When a gust of wind lifts the hay in the meadow, the Breton peasant throws a knife or a fork at it to prevent the devil from carrying off the hay. (S£billot, Coutumes populaires de la Haute- Bretagne, pp. 302 seq.) Vide Razor , Sharpening, Drink. Knock : Three loud and distinct knocks at the bed's head of a sick person, or at the bed's head or door of any of his relations, is an omen of his death. (Tylor, P.C. , VoL I, P* L32.) If on three successive nights a knocking be heard at midnight at the door of a house, it is a sure sign of death; (Deaney, Peasant Lore from Gaelic Ireland , pp. 55-60) ; or, in Scotland, three knocks at regular intervals of one or two minutes foretell the same (Gregor, p, 203.). 144 A DICTIONARY OF To knock on the door and receive no answer is a sign of death. ( Virginia , Englewood. — Bergen, C.S., p. 126.) To hear a knock at the door and not to find the person knocking is an indication that the Devil has just entered. (Great Britain.) Knocker : A spirit or goblin imagined to dwell in mines and to indicate the presence of ore by knocking. (Hunt, Pop. Rom.) “ In the Cardigan mines, the knockers are still heard, indicating where a rich load may be expected." — Chambers’ Journal, II, 371-2 (1885.) Knot : If two persons break a piece of cotton with a knot in it, it denotes the fulfilment of a wish for the person who gets the piece with the knot. ( Great Britain.) Witches were said to have had the power of making a marriage childless by tying a knot in a piece of string. (Lehmann, A. Z., p. 111 ,r Frazer, G.R2.,Vol. I, p. 392 seq.). If you are making a shroud, avoid knots. (Wuttke, p. 210 ; Jew. Eric., Vol. XI, p. 601.) Vide Wart. Knothole : Knotholes in a piece of wood used for doors, etc., are the favourite entrances of fairies, maras and other nocturnal spirits. (cf. Simrock, Mythologie, p. 545 ; Grimm, D.M. ; Thorpe, Northern Mythology ; Hartland, Science oj Fairy Tales ; Wuttke, p. 161.) Kobold : German Folklore. A familiar spirit haunting houses and rendering services to the inmates, but often of a tricky disposition. Sometimes they are also underground spirits haunting mines and caves. Kobud : The Wend name for a goblin. Kokunochi: “ Trees-father.” A Japanese god of the tree. Koma : It is the “ shade ” of the Wanika of East Africa, which cannot exist without food or drink. (Kraff, p. 150 ; Tylor, P.C., vol. i (?) p. 27.) Konshana-Sakuya-hime : “The lady who blossoms like the flowers of the trees.” Daughter of a Japanese Mountain- god, wife of Ninigi. Kornmutter : “ Corn-mother ” ; it is a Teutonic field-spirit in human form. Komwolf : "Corn-wolf " ; the name of a German field-spirit. Kotavi, Kotari, Kottavi : Hind. Myth. A naked woman ; a mystical goddess ; the tutelary deity of the daityas, mother of Barn the demon. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 159.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 145 Kra : The vital soul among the Gold Coast negroes. Another spelling for Kla. KravyM : Hind. Myth. “ A flesh-eater.” A Rakshasa or any carnivorous animal. In the Vedas, Agni is in one place called a Kravyad of terrible power. Fire is also a Kravyad in consuming bodies on the funeral pyre. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 160.) Kriemhild : Niebenlungenlied. The beautiful sister of Gunther, King of Burgundy, who becomes the wife of Siegfried. After Siegfried’s death she marries Etzel, King of the Huns. Later, she brings about the slaughter of her kins- men, the Burgundians, as a revenge for Hagen's murder of Siegfried. Kriksy : Russian Folklore. A hag who torments children by night. Krishna : Hind. Myth. The eighth Avatar of Vishnu, and one of the most widely worshipped deities of the Hindus. He is said to have been brought up by the cowherds as one of them. He is reputed to have dictated the Bhagvat Gita, while Arjuna wrote it down ; he is the hero of innumerable exploits. His body is supposed to have been turned blue from the poison of Kaliy&, king of the serpents, whom he subjugated by standing on his head. Kuda : The demon of disease of Jewish superstition, which attacks women in childbirth. {Jew. Enc., Vol. IV, p. 5x7.) Kukuchi: A Japanese god of trees, who represents a class (Aston, Shinto, p. 11.) Kuni no mihashiren: Jap. Myth. “ August pillar of earth.” A wind-god who is prayed to for good harvest. Kuvera : Hind. Myth. God of wealth. Kyffhauser : German Legend. Barbarossa is said to sit at a marble table in Kyffhauser. Kyklopes : The correct spelling for Cyclops. L Labartu : In ancient Babylonian superstition this was the name given to a class of demons who were believed to be especially dangerous to children and their mothers. Labasu : “ One who throws down ” ; in Babylonian super- stition this was a demon who had the same powers as the Akhkhazu. A DICTIONARY OF 146 Lachesis : Gr. Myth. The goddess who determines the length of the Thread of Life. Ladder : To walk under a ladder is not unlucky provided you cross your first two fingers. ( Great Britain.) Sailors say that you will be hanged if you pass under a ladder. (Bassett, p. 433.) To dream of going up a ladder denotes^ honour, but it is an evil omen to dream of going down it. Ladybird : It is unlucky to kill ladybirds {Great Britain ), because spirits of unfortunate beings animate them. {India), Laertes ; Class. Myth. A king of Ithaca, father of Ulysses, Laius : Gr. Myth. King of Thebes, father of OEdipus by whom he was slain in an altercation. Lakshman : Hind. Myth. Brother of Rama, with whom he went into exile when Rama was banished from the land. Lakshmi : Hind. Myth. Goddess of fortune, wife of Vishnu. She is considered the type of Indian beauty and is represented sometimes with four arms, but oftener with two. Lamb : If a sheep give birth to three black lambs, there will be a death in the family. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 24.) . Witches cannot assume the form of lambs. At Kilkenny, Ireland, it is believed that if the first lamb seen in the season be black, the person who sees it will die within the year. (Lady Wilde, p. 180 ; Folk- lore, X, p. 121.) cf. Dove, Swallow , Lamia : Gr. Myth. She was a lascivious evil spirit in the form of a serpent with a woman's head and had the power of taking out her eyes. She was a kidnapper and murderess of children. In modern Greek folklore the lamise are hideous monsters, shaped as gigantic and coarsedooking women for the most part, but with strange deformities of the lower limbs. They may have even more than two feet ; often one of them is of bronze, while others resemble those of animals. Their special characteristics, apart from their thirst for blood, are their uncleanliness, their gluttony and their stupidity. (Lawson, p. 174.) Lamp : To hold a lamp over a sleeping person causes death. {Massachusetts.) AC- SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 147 A lamp should be kept burning night and day in a room where a baby is born till the mother is well again ; this is to keep the evil spirits away. [Great Britain , India , Germany. — Kuhn und Schwarz, p. 92 ; Wolf, Beitrdge , Vol. II, p. 303, etc. ; Wuttke, p. 195.) The spluttering of a lamp foretells misfortune. [Greece — Lawson, p. 328.) Langsuir : The Malays believe that a woman dying in child- birth becomes a langsuir and sucks the blood of the children. [Enc. Brit., Vol. VIII, p. 6.) cf, Choorail. Lan Tsai Ho : Chin. Myth. The fifth of the eight Immortals. [Chin. V olksmdrchen , p. 71.) Laocoon : Gr. Myth. A priest of Apollo at Troy, who incurred the wrath of Athena by throwing a spear "at her wooden horse. As he was offering a sacrifice to Poseidon, he was destroyed with his two sons, by two huge serpents which the goddess had caused to come out of the sea. Laodamia : Greek Legend. Wife of Protesilaus (q.v.), who, after the death of her husband, had him restored to life for three hours ; when it was time for him to return to the underworld, she accompanied him. Lapithes : A mythical race inhabiting Thessaly. They were celebrated for their power of subjugating horses, and especially for their war against the Centaurs. Lapwing : A handmaid of the Virgin Mary having purloined one of her mistress's dresses, was changed into a lapwing and condemned for ever to cry : Tyvit ! Tyvit ! (i.e., I stole it ! I stole it !) Lapwings pick crocodiles' teeth, therefore they never harm them. Lar : (PI. Lares). A tutelary Roman divinity, usually a deified ancestor or hero. Lard : Vide Ham. Lark : If you drink three lark's eggs on a Sunday before the church bells ring, you will have a sweet voice. Larva : (PL Larvae). A disembodied spirit of the Romans and a malevolent one. Last Buried : The person buried last in a churchyard does not have any repose, but must guard the others. (H addon, “ A Batch of Irish Folklore," in Folklore , Vol. IV, p. 363 ; Lady Wilde, pp. 82, 93, 213.) An analogous belief is current in Brittany, (le Braz, Vol. I, p, 303.) 148 A DICTIONARY OF At Kilmurrv the last buried has to carry water to moisten the lips of the souls in purgatory. (K. L. Payne, “ A Burial Superstition in Countv Cork,” in Folklore , Vol. VIII, p. 180.) Last Piece : Do not take the last of anything remaining on a plate, you will be an old maid if you do so. (Great Britain , Germany , Bohemia.) Whoever gets the last piece of cake from the plate at tea-time, will be the first to marry. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 326.) Lat : Hind. Myth. An ancient Hindu deity. (Duncan Forbes.) Latawiec : Polish Folklore. A spirit which sometimes assumes the form of a man, sometimes of a fascinating maiden. He likes to beguile belated travellers from their right way. When he wishes to gratify his lust, he visits witches in the form of a flying fiery serpent, cf. Ignis Fatuus , Incubus , Succubus, Jhoting, Cuichi Supai, Tululu Supai, Khu . Latona : The Romans called Leto by this name. Lazarus, St. : He protects people from leprosy. Leander : A Grecian youth, lover of Hero, priestess of Venus. He drowned himself in the Hellespont. Leap Year : In Hesse and in Westphalia it is believed that the leap year is particularly suited for important under- takings. (Wuttke, p. 24.) Vide Twenty-ninth of February. Leather : Leather is said to scare demons away. (Crooke, P.R-L, Vol. II, p. 33.) .Leda : Gr. Myth. Wife of the Spartan king Tyndareus. According to the usual accounts, the father of Helen and Pollux was Zeus who took the form of a swan and had intercourse with Leda. Other accounts make both Pollux and Castor either sons of Zeus or of Tyndareus her hus- band. Her children were Castor and Pollux, Clytemnestra and Helen of Troy. Left : Left to right is a good direction. ( Greece . — Lawson, p. 312.) Leg : To see a man with a wooden leg coming towards you is an omen of good luck ; to see his back or to turn round to look at him portends ill luck. {Great Britain.) Lemures : In Roman mythology they are the same as the Larvae with whom the living find it hard to maintain a permanent peace. They were the malevolent spirits of the departed. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 149 “ Lest he behold one of these grim lemures.” — Lytton, Last Days of Pompeii. Leprosy : St. Lazarus the beggar protects from leprosy. Bathing in human blood, especially the blood of a maiden, cures leprosy. (Strack, Der Blutaberglaube, p. 12 seq.y quoting Pliny, Nat. Hist., XXVI, 1, 5,) Richard, King of England, who was suffering from leprosy, took counsel of a Jewish physician after all other means had failed him. This Jew advised the King to bathe in the blood of a new-born babe, and to eat its warm heart raw as an infallible cure for this disease, (Simrock, Volksbiicher , XII, pp. 31, et seq. ; Strack, op. cit., p. 14.) Ler : Celt. Myth. A Gaelic god of the sea. Lethe : Class. Myth. The river of Hades, whose water, when drunk, caused forgetfulness of the past. Leto : Gr. Myth. The mother of Apollo and Artemis by Zeus to whom she was married before he married Hera (Hesiod). In a later story, she was only a mistress of Zeus and was persecuted by Hera until her children were born at Delos. She is called Latona by the Romans. Letter : A moth flying towards a person, denotes a letter. A bright spark from the burning wick of a candle promises a letter. If you dream of posting an unsealed letter to your sweetheart, it means that your secrets will be exposed. Vide Cotton , Saliva. Leucothea : Gr. Myth. A goddess of the sea. Vide Ino . Lichas : Gr. Myth. A servant of Hercules, who brought him the poisoned shirt of Nessus. He was thrown from a high mountain, and falling into the sea became a rock which still bears his name and retains the human form. Lichen : According to a legend this dry plant was not always so ; it became dry as the result of the curse of a woman. (Jalla, Leg. Vaud , p. 11.) In the Hebrides fishermen refuse to wear clothes dyed with the lichen found on the rocks, although it is used in other cases. They say that it comes from the rocks, and will go back there. (Goodrich-Freer, Outer Isles , 1902, p. 203 ; Hazlitt, p. 575.) Lichoradka : Slavic Folklore. Demons of fever. T.ia • ViHa Tnwpue. PimLle. S'beak. A DICTIONARY OF 150 Light : In the superstition of nearly every nation, savage or civilized, it is generally admitted that light scares spirits away ; hence spirits appear only when it is either dark or in” a state of semi-darkness, (cf. Ethnologic dn Bengale, p. 95 ; Skeat, Malay Magic, p. 15.) Three lights burning in a room, is a sign of death. (Abbott, p. 99.) If there are three lights in a straight line in front of an unmarried girl, she will soon be a bride. (Strackerjan, Yol. I, p. 23.) Women, who can blow into flame the still glowing wick of a lamp or a candle, are virgins. (S. Germany, Silesia, Tyrol. — Wuttke, p. 42.) A light is seen on the grave of a very pious man. (Ph. Redmond, “ Some Wexford Folklore,” Folklore, X. 362.) Before the death of a near relative, lights are seen moving before a person. No matter how hard the person tries to approach them, these lights always keep the same distance. {Brittany. — LE Braz, Vol. I, p. 260.) A light going out of its own accord is an omen of death. (Wuttke, p. 38.) If the light is let go out on Christmas Eve, some one in the house will die. (Ragner.) Lightning : Witches generally cause lightning. (Lehmann, A.Z., p. hi.) He who carries about him a piece of wood chipped off by lightning, will be extremely strong. ( Bohemia . — Grohmann, p. 40.) To insure your house against lightning, burn the Yule Log on Christmas Eve. (Ragner.) If a person struck by lightning be immediately removed forty paces from the spot where the accident befell him, he will recover. {Macedonia.— Abbott, p. 229.) Wreaths of red and white flowers hung up on Ascension Day over stable doors, safeguard the stables against lightning. {Swabia. — Wuttke, p. 21.) Vide Heitlik, Beetle. Lilis : Adam’s wife before Eve was created. Lilis refused to submit to Adam, and was turned out of paradise ; she still haunts the air and is 'especially hostile to children and new-born babes. She is usually known as Lilith. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY IS* Lilith : Jewish Folklore. A female demon, worshipped by the Jews during the Babylonian captivity. She was the first wife of Adam who was compelled to repudiate her. Eve being created for him. In modern superstition she is the queen of demons, pictured with wings and long flowing hair. {Jew. Enc ., Vol. IV, p. 517.) (ii) In the Middle Ages Lilith was a famous witch, (cf. Goethe : Faust) cf. Igarat bat Mahlat. Lilitu ; A female form of Lilu. Lilu : u Night.” In Babylonian superstition it was a kind of evil spirit who plied his trade at night under cover of darkness, cf. Ardat lili. Limbo : (Lat. Limbus “ an edge ”). A sort of neutral land on the confines of paradise for those who are not good enough for heaven and not bad enough for hell, or rather, for those who cannot (according to the church system) be admitted into paradise, either because they have never heard the Gospel or have never been baptized. (Dr. Brewer, « R.H., p. 614.) Limbo of the Moon : In the moon are treasured up the time misspent in play, all vain efforts, all vows broken, all counsel thrown away, all desires that lead to nothing, the vanity of titles, flattery, great men's promises, court services and death-bed alms. (Dr. Brewer, R.H., quoting Orlando Furioso, XXXIV, 70.) Limbus Fatuoram : Or the. Fool's Paradise for idiots, madmen and others who are not responsible for their sins, but yet have done nothing worthy of salvation. (Dr. Brewer, R.H., p. 614.) Limping : To limp with the left foot denotes good fortune ; with the right, the opposite. [Bohemia) Lin : Chin. Folklore. A supernatural creature with the body of a deer, the tail of an ox, and a single horn. It is said to attain the age of one thousand years and to be the noblest form of animal creation, the emblem of perfect good. (Mayers, Chin. Read. Man., p. 136.) Lindwurm : “ Dragon ” ; in Tyrol it is believed that the Lindwurm watches treasures. (Alpenburg, Mythen, p. 377 ; cf . KAnos, Turkish Fairy Tales , p. 135 ; Lawson, p. 281.) Lion : The lion will not injure a royal prince. The ancient naturalists entertained the idea that the fiercest lion trembled at the crowing of a cock. 152 A DICTIONARY OF The lion hates the game-cock and is jealous of it ; some say because the cock wears a crown (its crest) ; others, because it comes into the royal presence “ booted and spurred.” According to a legend the lion’s whelp is born dead and remains so '’for three days, when the father breathes on it and it receives life. Arab women in North Africa give their male children a piece of a lion’s heart to eat to make them fearless (Frazer, G.B2., Vol. II, p. 355.) Vide Bear, Jackal. Lion-God, Double : Egypt. Myth. They were two lions seated back to back, supporting the horizon with the sun’s disc, over which stands the sky ; the lion on the right is called Sef “yesterday,” and that on the left Tuau “ to- day.” (Budge, Book of the Dead, p. 90.) Lip : Itching of the lips is a sign that someone will kiss you. [Great Britain, Boston. — Bergen, C.S., p. 63.) A mole on the lip is a sign either of gluttony or of sensuousness. Lir Majoran : In New Guinea, he is the god of husbandry, to whom first fruits are offered when the harvest is ripe. (Frazer, G.B2., Vol. II, p. 463.) Lisa’s Ring : A ring which by its lustre told Lisa whether her lover was ill or dying. (St. John, Leg. Chr. East, p. 163.) cf. Bahman’s Knife, etc. Li Tia Guai : Chin. Myth. The sixth of the eight Immortals. [Chin. Volksmdrchen, p. 71.) Live Coal : It is a Scandinavian custom to cast live coals after the mother as she goes to be churched, in order to prevent the trolls from carrying her off bodily. (Tylor, P.C., Vol. II, p. 178, quoting Hylten-Cav allies, W dr end och Wirdarne, Vol. I, p. 191, and Atkinson, Glossary of Cleveland Dial., p. 597.) Lizard : The cut-off tail of a lizard lives some time after it has been separated from the body, and if by chance it touches the body it immediately joins itself to it and lives and grows along with it. ( Great Britain, India, Germany. — Strackerjan. Vol. II, p. no. cf. F.L. T„ 1883, p. 356.) . Ihe lizard is man’s special enemy, but warns him of the approach of a serpent. Food touched by a lizard becomes poisonous. ( Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 116.) Biscobra is the name of a kind of huge lizard. According to popular belief, its bite is fatal. (Yule & Burnell, Hobson Jobson 2, pp. 95, 367; ibid.1, p. 765.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY lS3 When Queen Elizabeth sent a sculptured lizard to the wife of the Prince of Orange, the princess wrote back : “ It is the fabled virtue of the lizard to awaken % sleepers when a serpent is creeping up to them. Your Majesty is the lizard and the Netherlands the serpent. Pray God they may escape the serpent's tooth." The Mohammedans say that the lizard is a treacherous reptile. It was a lizard which pointed out Mohammed to his pursuers while he was hiding in a cave. If you let a lizard run over your hand, you will be a good needle-woman. (Alsace.— Lambs, p~ 30.) Vide Spider . Lien : Celt. Myth. A Cymric sun-god, son of Gwydion and Arianrod. Llud : Celt. Myth. A Cymric god of the sky. Llyr : Celt. Myth. A Cymric god of the sea. Loadstone : Loadstone produces somnambulism. It is dedi- cated to Mercury, and in metallurgy means quicksilver. Lock : In Cornwall death is believed to be retarded, and the dying person kept in a state of suffering by having any lock closed or any bolt shut in the dwelling. (Hunt, Pop. Rom., p. 379 ; Gregor, F.L.N.E.S., p. 206 ; Con- temporary Review , XL VIII, 108.) The Arabs spit on a lock which cannot easily be opened. (Doughty, Arab Des., Vol. I, p. 227.) Locust : In South Mirzapur, when locusts threaten to eat up the fruits of the earth, the people catch one, decorate its head with a spot of red lead, salaam to him, and let him go. After these civilities the locust immediately departs along with its fellows. (Crooke, Pop. Rel. Folkl. North India , p. 380 ; Frazer, G.B2., Vol. II, p. 424.) Log : If logs crackle in the hearth, you will either have good news, or friends will arrive. (Greece. — Lawson, p. 328.). Loki : Norse Myth. A god, contriver of discord and mischief. He is adroit and cunning and is able to transform himself into innumerable shapes. He contrives the death of Balder, and is overcome by Thor. Skathi fastens a venom-dripping snake over him. Longevity : Plenty of soup eaten slowly produces longevity. The Chinese worship the peepul-tree for long life. (Williams, Mid . King., Vol. II, p. 259.) 154 A DICTIONARY OF Looking round : It is unlucky to look round at night, (Strack- erjan, Vol. II, p. 20.) Never look round when a ghost speaks to you ; if you do so, the ghost will immediately break your neck, [Bengal) Vide Beehive , Loom : If silver has been stolen from the house, the loom will be heard working in the dead of the night. (Jutland). (For other superstitions connected with the loom, vide Wikman, Die Magie des Webens.) Lorelei : In the Rhine district of Germany there is a belief that this is a Nixie or water-spirit, who entices mariners to destruction. She is represented as sitting on the Lorelei rocks, singing enchantinglv and combing her hair with a golden comb. “ Ich glaube die Wellen verschlingen, Am Ende Schiffer und Kahn ; Und das hat mit ihrem Singen Die Lorelei gethan.” — Heine, Lorelei. cf. Siren , Nixie , Alrinach , Jal Pari , Bugarik. Lost Goods : The saints Elain and Ethelbert lead to the recovery of lost goods. Lot’s Wife : She is said to have been turned into a pillar of salt. Vide Wahela . Loup-garou : In France the werewolves (q.v.) are called by this name. “ Le peuple des campagnes appelait loup-garou ou lycanthrope un sorcier qui, travesti en loup, courait les champs pendant la nuit. Sa peau etait a Fepreuve de la balle, a moins que celle-ci n'elit ete benite dans la chapelle de Saint-Hubert, patron des chasseurs, qui le tireur ne port&t sur lui du trefie a quatre feuilles, etc, Cette croyance ridicule disparait aujourd'hui de plus en plus.” — Petit Larousse illustre, p. 569. Lourdes : The water from the spring at Lourdes cures all diseases, (Roman Catholic) Louse : Lice on the bodies of children signify good luck. (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. in.) A louse taken from the body of a beggar and put into the hollow of an aching tooth instantly cures the pain. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 85.) In Lauenburg, a cross made of thorns is tied round a dog's neck to protect him from lice. (Bastian, Der Mensch, Vol. II, p. 116 note.) Living lice on a corpse indicate the death of another member of the family. (Alsace. — Lambs, p. 33.) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY ISS Love : According to the Greeks a cestus worn by women inspired love ; hence Aphrodite was irresistible on account of her cestus. It is a West Highland superstition that a beauty spot cannot be resisted ; hence Diarmaid inspired masterless love by his beauty spot. An Irish superstition is that, if a lover will run a hair of the object beloved through the fleshy part of a dead man's leg, the person from whom the hair was taken will go mad with love. It is a Basque superstition that yellow hair in a man is irresistible with women ; hence every woman who set eyes on Ezkabi Fidel, the golden haired, fell in love with him. (For various love potions see Ethnologie du Bengale , p. 144 ; Hovorka & Kronfeld, Vergleichende Volks - medizin , Vol. II, p. 179.) Vide Salt, Cracking , Shoe , Urine , Perspiration , Menstruation , Blood , Flower , Frog , Chemise . Lucifer : The angel who rebelled against God ; the Devil. “ Know then that after Lucifer from heaven . . . fell with his flaming legions through the deep Into his place ..." Milton, Paradise Lost , Bk. VII, 131. Luck Penny : Such a coin kept on the person brings good luck. It can be obtained from the Devil himself. (On the method of obtaining one, vide Wuttke, p. 177.) Lucina : . Gr. Myth. The goddess who presided over child- birth, said by some to be the daughter of Jupiter and Juno ; by others, Juno herself. Lucky Finds : It is extremely lucky to find the following things : horseshoes, bones, teeth, egg-shells and four- leaved clovers ; this last should be sewn inside the lining of one's clothes. {Silesia. — Wuttke, p. 96.) Lii Dung Bin : Chin. Myth. The third of the eight Immortals. {Chin. Volksmdrchen , p. 69.) Lug, Lugh : Celt. Myth, The Gaelic sun-god who aided the Tuatha De Danann to overthrow the Fomors. He was the son of Diancecht and Balor. Lugal-banda : BabyL Myth. An ancient sun-god of the violent type. The word signifies “ mighty king." He and his consort Nin-Sun were worshipped in Ereeh. Lumbago : To cure lumbago tie a skein of silk round the loins next the skin. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 505) ; or a violin string round your waist. A DICTIONARY OF 15*5 Lusignan : An ancient illustrious feudal family whose ances- tress, according to a legend, was the fairy Melusine. (Hartland, Sc. of Fairy Tales ; Petit Larousse, p. 1436.) Lutin : The Kobolds (q.v.) of French superstition. Lycaon : Gr. Myth. An Arcadian king who, when Zeus came in disguise "to him, set before the god a dish of human flesh in order to test his divinity. Zeus turned him into a wolf ; or in other versions, struck him dead by lightning. Lycanthropy : (Gr. lukos “ wolf ” anthropos “ man ”). In ancient and mediaeval times wizards were supposed to have the power of changing themselves at will into wolves, hears, tigers and the like. This metamorphosis could also be brought about by means of donning certain belts, or by rubbing the body with certain ointments, or merely by incantations. (Cf. O’Donnell, Werewolves ; S. Baring Gould, Book of Werewolves ; Grimm, Deutsche Mythologie ; Leubuscher, Wdkmdlfe, Die. Rel. Ethics, s.v. “Lycan- thropy.”) The werewolf not only existed in the imagination of our forefathers, but is firmly believed in in many countries to the present day. The Bereserker of the Scandinavians, the Loup-garous of the French, the Fox of the Chinese and the Japanese, the Wahrwolfe of the Teutonic races, the Were-Tigers of the Indians and the Malays are all variations of our own werewolves. In reality it is a kind of insanity in which the patient imagines himself to be a wolf or some other wild animal. Vide Werewolves, Loup-garou. “ Persons accused of the crime of Lycanthropy.”— Scott, Demonology (1830). Lycus : Gr. Myth. A king of Thebes, husband of Dirce, who rescued Antiope from Epopeus. Lyderhorn : A mountain near Bergen (Norway) ; this was supposed to have been a popular resort of the Norwegian witches. (Lehmann, A.Z., p. 112.) cf. Blocksberg, Hecla, Brocken, etc. Lyesovic : " Wood king.” In Russian folklore this is a forest- spirit. He looks very much like a man, but his hairy body betrays him. He has long hair and a green beard ; he has only one eye and lacks eyebrows ; he can change his size at will and often transforms himself into animals. Lyesyj : Same as Lyesovic. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 157 Lynceus : Gr. Myth. Husband of Hypermnestra, one of the Argonauts. He had such wonderfully sharp eyes, that he could see through a millstone, or look right down into the depth of the earth, and discover the treasures that were there. M Mabisalira : Among the Nyanjas of Nyassaland in Africa this is a professional witch-finder, generally a woman. Maboya : Among the Caribs it is a demon, hater of all light, who seeks to devour the sun and the moon. cf. Rdhu , Metu, Aracho. Macbeth : Macbeth could not be killed by anyone who was born of a woman. (Shakespeare, Macbeth , viii.) Machus : Gr. Myth. A god of the rivers, father of Io. Madness : It is lucky to live in the same house with a madman. (Gt. Britain , India , Germany , Greece : Lawson, p. 397). Among the Zulus madmen are supposed to be entered into by some departed spirit. (Callaway, Rel. of the Amazulu , p. 147 ; Tylor, P.C. Vol. II, p. 118 : Rider Haggard, Nada the Lily , p. 58) ; the same belief is prevalent in Polynesia (Ellis, Polynesian Researches , Vol. I, pp. 363, 395 ; Vol. II, pp. 193, 274 ; Tylor, P.C. Vol. II, p. 117), in East Africa and among the Barongosetc. (Casalis, Basutos , p. 247 ; Burton, Cent. Africa , Vol. II, pp. 320, 354). If you are bitten by a mad dog, take the dog's liver, burn it to charcoal, powder it and eat it with bread and butter. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 81). If women step on egg-shells, they will go mad. ( Japan , Griffis, M.E. p. 469). Dogs will go mad if they eat of the afterbirth of mares. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 49). If hair be set on fire, you will go mad. (Japan, Griffis, M.E. p. 468). : ‘ The saints Dymphna and Lillian cure madness. Maenad : Class. Relig. A nymph attendant upon Dionysus. Maelstrom : A whirlpool off the west coast of Norway. It was formerly believed that a spirit dwelt in it and sucked in all vessels which ventured near his dwelling. A DICTIONARY OF 158 Magnetic Islands ; In several books there is mention of a magnetic island in some unknown sea where ships are wrecked, (cf. Lane, Thousand and one Nights , Vol. I, pp. 161, 217, Vol. Ill, p. 78; Heinrich von Waldeck, Herzog Ernst’s von Bayern Erhdhung etc., p. 65 ; Ludlow, Popular Epics of Middle Ages , p. 221 ; Sir John Maundeville, Voiage and Travaile) Magog : Vide Gog. Magpie ; In Lancashire it is an omen of ill luck to see two magpies flying together. When magpies chatter, it denotes that you will see strangers. To see one magpie is unlucky, to see two denotes merri- ment, or a marriage, to see three, a successful journey, four, good news, five, company. It is unlucky to see magpies (Bassett, p. 275). Magpies chattering on the house-top predict the coming of a friend and relatives from abroad (. Macedonia , Abbott, p. no). Magpies shot during the Twelve Nights and burnt to powder, prevent fever. (Kuhn und Schwartz, p. 412). If a magpie be shot in March and nailed on inside the cow-shed, it will stop the flies coming in. (Strackerjan, ' Vol. I, p. 67). Among the Kirghiz, if a magpie be seen on the west it means a journey ; if on the east, guests ; if on the north, bad luck; if on the south, some remarkable event. (Schuyler, Vol, II, p. 30). Among the Chinese, a magpie is a bird of good omen. (Doolittle, Vol. II, p. 327). It is unlucky to kill a magpie ( Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 1x2 ; Abbott, p. 110.) “ One for sorrow, two for mirth, Three for a wedding, four for a birth.” Lincolnshire Proverb To have a magpie perch on your house shows stability of the house. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 16 ; F.L.R., I, 8). Alexander Ross tells us the battle between the Italians and the French, in which the former were overthrown, in the reign of Charles VIII, was foretold by a skirmish between magpies and jackdaws. Arcana Microcosmi (Appendix, 219). Vide Pierides. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 159 Mahomet's Coffin : This is said to be suspended in mid-air between heaven and earth. Mahu : The fiend prince that urges to theft. Maia : Gr. Myth. Daughter of Atlas, mother of Mercury. The eldest and most beautiful of the Pleiades, Rom. Relig. An ancient goddess, consort of Vulcan. Maid : To dream of obtaining a maid denotes joy, but weeping and sorrow if you dream you are taking her away by force. Maize : Plant maize when your stomach is full, and see to it that your dibble is thick ; this will swell the ear of the maize. (Skeat, MM., p. 217 ; Frazer, G.B 2., Vol. I, p. 35). Mala’ikat ar-rahma : Muham. Myth. The Angels of com- passion. Vide Azrdil. Mala’ikat al-adhab : Muham. Myth. The angels of punish- ments. Malat : An ancient Hindu deity. (Duncan Forbes). Malik : Muham. Myth. A terrible angel who guards over hell. He is assisted by Sbires (q.v.), of whom there are eighteen. Mailt y nos : Welsh Folk-lore, A particular kind of night- fiend. Mamdo : In India it is the ghost of a Mohammedan ; it is of an extremely malevolent type. (Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 100.) " Mamony : “Wild women.” The Dive zeny (q.v.) are called by this name in Poland. Man : A person weighs more fasting than after a meal. The Jews maintained that man has three natures : body, soul and spirit. Diogenes Laertes calls the three natures : body, phren and thumos ; and the Romans called them : manes, anima and umbra. (Dr. Brewer, R.H.) Mandrake : A kind of plant. It was believed to cry and groan like a child when pulled out by the roots. The fruit, when eaten by women, was supposed to promote conception. It is still the subject of many superstitions. In Persia it is said to cure barrenness. (Ploss, Das Weil, Vol. I, p. 535) “I, last night, lay all alone On the ground to hear the mandrake groan/" Ben Jonson, Masque of Queens. . Whoever hears the mandrake cry must die* (Hazlitt; Pi 385)- i6o A DICTIONARY OF Manes : Rom. Myth. The deified souls of the departed ancestors as beneficent spirits; opposed to Larvae and Lemures. They were gods of the lower world. “ Let eternal fame Attend thy manes and preserve thy name.” Pope, Thebais (1703). Mania : St. Vitus cures dancing mania. Manito, Manitu : Among the Algonquin Indians it is one of the powers or spirits which dominate the forces of nature Mantalini : A charlatan who professed to restore the dead to life. Mantle ; A boy brought to King Arthur's court a mantle which no one could wear who was unfaithful in love, false in domestic life, or treacherous to the king. If any such attempted to put it on, it puckered up, or hung slouchingly, or tumbled to pieces. (Percy: Reliques). The same boy brought the Brawn's Head. cf. FlorimeVs Girdle, Water of Jealousy , Canaces Mirror , Grotto of Efhesus. Manucodiata : A bird resembling the swallow found in the Molucca Islands. It has no feet, and though its body is no bigger than that of a swallow, the span of its wings is equal to that of an eagle. These birds never approach the earth, but the female lays her eggs on the back of the male, and hatches them in her own breast. They live on the dew of heaven, and eat neither animal nor vegetable food. “ In these Hands (Moluccas) onlie is found the bird, which the Portingales call Passaros de Sol, that is Foule of the Sunne, the Italians call it Mann codiatas, and the Latinists Paradiseas, by us called Paradice birdes, for ye beauty of their feathers which passe al other birds : these birds are never seene alive, but being dead they are found vpon the Hand; they flie, as it is said, alwaies into the Sunne, and keepe themselves continually in the ayre ... for they have neither feet nor wings, but onely head and bodie, and the most part tayle" — (Lxnschoten, Biscours of Voyages into ye Easte and Weste Indies , 35 ; Yule & Burnell, Glossary 1 ( Hobson Jobson 1), p 72.) “ Olha ca pelos mares do Oriente As infinitas ilhas espalhadas Aqui as aureas aves, que nao decern . Nunca a terra, e so mortas aparecem.” Camoes, Os Lusiadas , x,. 132 SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 161 Englished by Burton : “ Here see o’er oriental seas bespread Infinite island-groups and alwhere strewed ® o . * » o © Here dwell the golden fowls, whose home is air, And never earthward save in death may fare.” cf. Chakora , Mara : The nightmare-ghosts of Slavic and Teutonic mythology. They are the souls of living beings, mostly women, which leave their bodies by night, and visit sleepers for the pur- pose of tormenting them by sitting astride their chests. They usually make entrance either through a key-hole or through a knot-hole. The soles of their feet are flat and their eyebrows meet. They torment not only human beings, but also domestic animals, draining them of milk and sucking their blood. “ The incubus which we call the mare.” Bacon, Sylva (1626) * “ The ten chief Sins came, Maras, mighty ones, Angels of evil.” E. Arnold, Light of Asia, VI, xix* Mardanu-’l-ghaib : Same as Rij alu-l-ghaib? Marduk : Babyl. Myth. Originally the god of the city of Babylon, but later he became the official head of the pantheon. He is distinctly a solar god.* His consort was Sarpanitum. Margyr ; ‘ ' Sea-monster * * ; the name of a water-spirit in Iceland. Marichi Deva : Buddhist Myth. “ The personification of light, offspring of Brahma.” (ElTEL, Handbook of Chinese Buddhism ). Marid : They are the most powerful demons of Arabic demonology. (Lane, ASM, A., p. 27). Marriage : The English superstition is : “ Change your name and not the letter ; You change for worse and not for better.” “ Marry in Lent, Live to repent.” New York. A marriage is foretold by the blossoming of an apple tree in autumn. (Lower Saxony , Wuttke, p. 35). Vide Bed , Bridal clothes , Chemise , Cradle , Magpie , Field , True , Wreath, Garter , Last piece, Myrtle , Needle, Pear tree, Plough , Purple, Wedding , Stones sepulchral. 1 62 A DICTIONARY OF Mars : Gr. Myth. The god of War, in which character he is also regarded as a protector of the fields against hostile aliens, and as a leader of military colonists. The Romans considered him to be the father of Romulus. Marsyas : Gr. Myth. A young Phrygian flute-player who defied Apollo in this art. The Muses declared the god to be the victor, and, as a punishment, Marsyas was tied to a tree and was flayed alive. Martin : It is unlucky to kill a martin (Gt. Britain ). Martins forewarn miseries and unnatural wars by fighting against one another. (Alexander Ross, Arcana Microcosmi , p. 219.) Martin, St. : Vide Small-pox , Sudden Death . Martu : Babyl. Myth, Another name for Adad. Marut : They were the storm winds of Vedic mythology, who tear asunder the forest kings, and make the rocks asunder, and assume the form of new-born babes. Marut : Like Harut, it was the Armaic personification of rebellion. Masan : In the Himalayas this term is used to designate cemetery spectres. It is the ghost of a child, or a low-caste man, probably an oilman. (Crooke, P.i?., Vol. I, p. 261 ; Ethnologic du Bengale , p. 100). Masubi : Shinto Relig. The god of growth. (W. G. Aston, Shinto , p. 172). Match : To light three cigarettes (or in fact, three of any- thing) from the same match is considered unlucky ; one of the persons will die a sudden death. ( Gt . Britain). Materialization : In modern spiritualism it means the act of taking or assuming a material form. Matmate : In the East Indies these are the spirits of ancestors, which are worshipped as guardian spirits or household gods. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. II, p. 463). Mathew, Father : He was well-known as the Apostle of Tem- perance. Maug Moulach : The house of Tulloch Gorins in Scotland used to be haunted by Maug Moulach, or ‘ ‘ the girl with the hairy hand/' (Stewart, p. 144; Dal yell. Dark Sup.f p. 124). May : Vide Emerald. Mayflower : Mayflowers must not be brought inside a house, lest there be a death in the family, [Gt. Britain) SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 163 Maypole : Imparts fertilizing influence over both women and cattle as well as vegetation. (Elworthy, E.E., p. 62 ; Ethnologic du Bengale, p. 84. See Sir J. G. Frazer, Golden Bough, Vol. II, pp. 449-456). May Queen : It is superstitiously believed that the girl chosen to be the May Queen will not live another year. ( Gt . Britain). “ If you are waking call me early, call me early mother dear, For I would see the sun rise upon the glad New Year, It is the last New Year that I shall ever see, Then you may lay me low i’ the mould and think no more of me.” Tennyson, May Queen Maziqim : It is the Jewish equivalent of a domovoy or a brownie. Meal : In some parts of Austria and Germany, when a storm is raging the people open a window and throw out a hand- ful of meal, saying to the wind, ** There, that’s for you, stop ! ” (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 127, note). Measurement : If a corpse cannot immediately be disposed of, the best course is to measure it carefully, and then no malignant Bhut can occupy it. (Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 76 ; Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 69.) Vide Shadow. Meat : Warts can be cured by rubbing them with a piece of raw meat and then burying the meat. Cholera may be detected by throwing up a piece of raw meat in the air. Medea : Class. Myth. A female magician who brought back to life Acson, her father-in-law, by means of her magic arts. According to some legends she was in the habit of boiling old people in a large cauldron, under the pretence of making them young again. When her husband abandoned her, she revenged herself by killing her children. Medicine Bottle : If empty medicine bottles be sold, you will want them filled again for yourself. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 182; F.L.R., i). Medus : Gr. Myth. Son of Aegeus and step-brother of Theseus. A DICTIONARY OF 164 Medusa : Gr. Myth. The only one of the Gorgons who was mortal. She was a beautiful maiden noted for her splendid hair. The goddess Minerva being enraged with her, changed her hair into snakes, and endowed her with the terrible power of changing anyone into stone who looked at her. She was slain by Perseus who succeeded in cutting off her head while looking at its reflection in the shield. From her blood sprang Chrysaor and Pegasus. Megaera : Gr. Myth. One of the three Furies. Meleager : Gr. Myth. Son of Althea, Queen of Calydon. He was one of the Argonauts, and he slew the wild boar of Calydon. After the Calydonian hunt, he slew his uncles. Althea, enraged at this, thrust the brand into the fire, as it was foretold at his birth that his life would last no longer than this brand, and thus killed him. Meleager was in love with Atlanta. Vide Amber. Meleagrides : Gr. Myth. The sisters of Meleager, who were turned into guinea-hens. Melicertes : Gr. Myth. Son of Ino. After he was thrown into the sea by his mother, he became the sea-god Palaemon. Melon : In Turkestan the “ throat of a melon must be cut before it is fit to eat. (Because the Qor’an says, it is un- lawful to eat an animal bef ore its throat is cut) . (Schuyler, Vol. II, p. 29) Melons planted on Ascension Day grow well ( North Germany, Wuttke, p. 21). Melpomene : Gr. Myth. The Muse of Tragedy. M£lusine : According to a French legend Melusine, a fairy, was the ancestress of many noble families. She appears occas- sionally to give them warning of some approaching catas- trophe. (Hartland, Science of Fairy Tales). “ ... fee que les romans de chevalerie et les legendes du Poitou representent comme l’aieule et la protectrice de la maison de Lusignan.” — Petit Larousse illustre, p. 1456. cf. White Lady, Death Warnings. Meluzina : Bohemian Folk-lore. The spirit of the winds. Memory : If you want to commit anything to memory, put the book containing the passage under the pillow before going to sleep. (Silesia, Hesse, Tyrol — Wuttke, p. 186 ; Den- mark, Andersen, Fairy Tales (Little Tuk). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 165 Menstruation : According to the Talmud, if a woman at the beginning of her period passes between two men, she there- by kills one of them ; if she passes between them towards the end of her period, she only causes them to quarrel violently. (J. Beigel, Die Medizin der Talmudisten, Leipzig and Berlin, 1885, p. 1593). In Syria, a woman who has her courses may neither salt nor pickle, for the people think that whatever she salted or pickled would not keep. (Frazer, G.B., Vol III, p. 225, quoting Eijub Abela in Zeitschrift des deutschen Palastina-V ereins, VII (1885), p. in). The Guayquiris of Orinoco think that, when a woman has her period, everything upon which she steps will die, and that if a man treads on the place where she has passed, his legs will immediately swell up. (Frazer, ib.) In Brunswick people think that if a menstruous woman assists at the killing of a pig, the pork will putrefy. (R. Andree, Braunschweiger Volkskunde, p. 291)5 In the Greek island of Calymnos, it is believed that the presence of a menstruous woman in a boat will raise storms. (W. R. Paton in Folklore, I (1890), p. 524). According to Pliny, the touch of a menstruous woman turned wine to vinegar, blighted crops, killed seedlings, blunted swords and razors, killed bees, brought down the fruit from trees, caused mares to miscarry, and so forth. (Pliny, Nat. Hist., VII, 64s?., XXVIII, 77 sq.) Menstrual blood is believed to be a powerful means of inspiring love. (Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. I, p. 444) ; cf. Ethnologie du Bengale, p. 79 ; Jolly, Medicin, (Grundr. d. Indo-Ar. Phil.), p. 50 • Van Waters Miriam, The Adolescent Girl among Primitive Peoples, p. 23 ; L. K. A. K. Iver, The Cochin Tribes and Castes, Vol I, p. 203. Vide Barrenness. Mephistopheles : It is the name by which the Devil is called in Goethe’s Faust and in Marlow’s Life and Death of Dr. Faustus. Mer : Babyl. Myth. Another name for Adad. Mercury : Rom. Myth, Son of Zeus, messenger of the Gods, and himself a god of commerce, gain and eloquence. His worship was introduced into Rome from Southern Italy as early as 495 B.c. A DICTIONARY OF 166 mx ... }■ Mermaid : An imaginary species of beings supposed to inhabit the sea ; they have the head and trunk of a woman, the lower limbs being replaced by the tail of a fish, and are often confused with the Sirens of Classical mythology. (Lehmann, A.Z., p. 15; Baring-Gould, Cur. Myths., p. 508; Conway, Demonol., Vol. II, p. 218 ; Thorpe, N.M., Vol. II, pp. 27, 28, 173 ; Bassett, p. 171 et seq.) If a fisherman meets a mermaid, he will catch no fish that day. (Thorpe, op. cit., p. 76)4 Merman : The male counterpart of a mermaid. Merrow : Irish Lore. A mermaid. Meteor : Falling stars, eclipses, comets and other signs in the heavens portend the death or fall of princes. (Lehmann). Midas : Gr. Myth. A king of Phrygia, who obtained from Bacchus the power of changing everything he touched into gold. Even his food was changed into this metal the moment he touched it. To cure him of this marvellous and fearful power, the god made him bathe in the river Pactolus. For having preferred the flute of Pan to Apollo’s lyre, Apollo made donkey’s ears grow on him. Midgard Serpent : Norse Myth. A sea monster, the offspring of Loki. Midnight : Ghosts and other spirits wander about at this hour. “ In the dead vast and middle of the night, ... a figure like your father . . appears before them. ...” Shakespeare, Hamlet, I, 2. Midzuha no me : In Japan the Water was made a female deity under this name. Milford Haven : Fairies were supposed to attend the market of Milford Haven as late as the 19th Century. Milk : Fairies are very fond of milk and often try to gratify their desires on “ unsained ” or unchurched women. (Gregor, Folk-lore of N.E. Scot., pp. 5, 60, 62). All liquids spilled on the ground are supposed to go to the use of fairies. (Stewart, p. 124 ; Dalyell, Dark Sup., P- 193)- It is considered a very good omen in India to see milk immediately on waking up in the morning. Milk Tooth : Milk teeth should be swallowed, if nice, white teeth are desired. (U.S.A., Knortz, p. 99). Vide Tooth. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 167 Mill : In Slavic and Teutonic (Strackerjan, Vol. II, p. 142) folk-lore, mills are believed to be the haunts of all kinds of evil spirits. Flour brought from a mill, especially one owned by a Turk, must be fumigated, in order to prevent the Devil from entering into it. (St. Clair and Brophy, Bulgaria, p. 46 ; Tylor, P.C., Vol. II, p. 146). Mimas : Class. Myth. A giant who, warring against the gods, was killed by lightning. Mimer : Norse Legend. A smith who reared Siegfried and incited him to slay Fafnir. (ii) Another spelling for Mimir. Mimi : In the “ Ring of the Nibelungen ” he is the smith who aids Siegfried to win the ring, and is slain by the hero for his treachery. Miming : Teut. Myth. A forest spirit, the guardian of a power- ful sword. Mimir : Norse Myth. A giant whose abode is a spring flowing from the root of the world-ash Yggdrasil. Drinking the waters of the spring, he knows all the past and the future. This was the water -spirit, into whose waters Odin had put his eye in pledge, in order to win wisdom. Min : Egypt. Myth. A god of procreation, chief deity of Panopolis. Minerva : Class. Myth. Daughter of Zeus, goddess of sagacity and arts. She presided over all artistic works and herself excelled in the arts of embroidery, etc. Vide Arachne. Minjika, Minjika (f.) : Hindu Myth. Two beings who sprang from the seed of Rudra, which was spilt upon a mountain. They are to be worshipped by those who desire the welfare of children. (Dowson, H.C.D., p. 209). Minos : Gr. Myth. Son of Zeus and Europa, king of Crete. After his death he was made a judge of the dead in Hades ; the other two judges were Eacus and Rhadamantos. Vide Talos. Minotaur : Gr. Myth. A monster, half man and half bull, the offspring of Pasiphae (q.v.). It was confined in the laby- rinth in Crete, where it devoured the periodical tribute of seven youths and seven maidens till it was slain by Theseus, (q.v.) who volunteered to be one of the seven. Miolnir : Norse Myth. The name of Thor’s hammer. 1 68 A DICTIONARY OF Mirror : To break a mirror denotes seven years of poverty (. Pinsk , Jew . Em ., Vol. IX, p. 601 ; U.S.A., Knortz, p. 37 ; Hazlitt, p. 225), or bad luck (Gt. Britain, Brand, Observa- tions, Vol. Ill, p. 169 ; Gregor, p. 203). If one looks at himself after eleven o’clock at night, he will see the reflection of the Devil’s face beside his own. (Mosel, Tyrol — W uttke, p. 132 ; Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 262 ; Gt. Britain, India). A woman should not look at herself in the mirror for at least six weeks after she was brought to childbed, lest ghostly faces peer at her. (Silesia — W uttke, p. 207). If a mirror be broken, it is a warning that someone in the house will lose a friend ere long ; or is prophetic that a person will never marry ; or if married, will lose the person wedded. A mirror falling off the wall without any apparent cause is an omen of an impending disaster or of a death in the family, (N. & C. Germany, Tyrol W uttke, p. 38; Gt. Britain). If a mirror be held before a sleeping man during a hail or thunder-storm, the storm will cease. (Leland, Etruscan Roman Remains , p. 93). Vide Alasnams Mirror, Ts’in King, Picture, Stuttering. Miser : The spirits of misers must return to earth. The name of a miser should not be uttered the first thing in the morning ; if you do so, you will have nothing to eat that day. (Bengal — Tagore, Mashi and other Stories, p. 92, Note I)/ Mistletoe : It is no sin to kiss under the mistletoe at Christmas. Mistletoe was the only thing on earth which had not taken an oath to do Balder harm. (See Frazer, The Magic Art , passim.) Mithaoxta : Pers. Myth. A spirit which represented " false speech/' Mithras : Pers. Myth. A god of the light of the middle zone, a defender of truth, helper of Ahura-Mazda in his struggles with the powers of darkness. Mitra : Vedic Myth. A celestial deity, probably the same as the Persian Mithras, who early sank to relative unimpor- tance. Mnemosyne: Gr. Myth. A Titaness, daughter of Uranus, goddess of memory. She was the mother of the Muses by Zeus. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 169 Modu : Hind. Myth. The prince of all devils that take posses- sion of human beings. (Dr. Brewer, R.H.). Mden : Danish Folk-lore. The king of the elves is supposed to reside at Mden. cf. Bornholm. Mole : Moles are blind ; hence the expression, “ blind as a mole.” (Gt. Britain). If a mole digs up earth in a house there will be a death therein. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 24), Mole-holes are the doors of ghosts. ( Silesia — W uttke, p. 224). Mole-mark : A mole on the lip is a sign of gluttony and talkative- ness ; on the neck it promises wealth ; on the nose it indi- cates that the person will be a great traveller ; on the thigh it forebodes poverty and sorrow ; on the throat, health and wealth, on the wrist, ingenuity. A mole-mark on the arm-pits promises wealth and honour ; on the ankle bespeaks modesty in men, courage in women ; on the right breast it is a sign of honesty, on the left forebodes poverty ; on the chin promises wealth ; on the right ear, respect, on the left, dishonour ; on the centre of the forehead it bespeaks treachery, sullenness and untidi- ness; on the right temple it forebodes you will enjoy the friendship of the great, on the left it forebodes distress ; on the right foot, wisdom, on the left foot, rashness ; on the right side of the heart denotes virtue, on the left wicked- ness ; on the knee of a man it denotes he will have a rich wife, on the knee of a woman, she may expect a large family. (See Ethnologic du Bengale, pp. 128, 129 ; Lean, Collectanea , VoL II, p. 312 ; Hazlitt, Faiths and Folklore $ pp. 413 $eq. ; Brand, Observations , Vol. Ill, p. 254). “ Moles on the neck, Money by the peck.” Ohio (Knortz, p. 126) Mole’s Paw : Mole's paws are used in Gt. Britain to keep off cramp. A mole's paw cures toothache ( F.L.R.} I). Monday : Monday is an unlucky day. Servant girls appointed on a Monday break many things. (. Rhineland , Westphalia — W uttke, p. 104). Vide Sunday, Wednesday. A DICTIONARY OF 170 Money : The Old Prussians furnished their dead with money to spend on his weary journey to the spirit world ; in Germany, France, China (false paper money) and Ireland this custom is kept up to the present day. The Russian Jews (Jew. Enc Vol. IX, p. 598) and the Indians consider it unlucky to dream of money. When taking money out of a purse leave at least a coin or two in it; money attracts money. ( Grodno — Jew . Enc., Vol. IX, p. 601). If they are compelled to give away the last piece of money they possess, the Bohemians say : “ Ty muy mity posledecku , privez mi jich na kolecku .'' (You my dear last one, bring me back a cartload like you). (Grohmann, p. 227). If you meet a frog, it denotes that you are about to re- ceive some money . To see blood is lucky ; it denotes money. (Gt. Britain ). It is unlucky to dream of money. (Gt Britain , India, U.S. A. — Knortz, p. 43). Vide Blood, Bubble , Cattle , Execution , Frog, Gold , Ant, Arm , Moon, Palm , Swallow , Blindness . Money Spider : To find small spiders of a golden colour, Arenea scenica , commonly called “ money spider,” on one's clothes is lucky — forebodes that you will be in receipt of some money soon. (Gt. Britain.) Monkey : Monkeys are believed by various nations to be the forefathers of the human race. (cf. Tylor, P.C. , Vol. I, p. 339 etc. ; Darwin, Origin of Species.) In Guinea monkeys found near a grave are believed to be animated by the spirits of the dead. (Wilson, pp. 210, 2x8 ; Tylor, P.C., Vol II, p. 7. cf. Skeat, Malay Magic, pp. 184 seq.). Monkeys' paws are used as vermifuge amulets in For- mosa. cf. Banmdnush , Orang-utan. Monster : The offspring of incestuous unions are monsters, (cf. Griffis, M.E., p. 472). Moon : Among the Mbocobis of South America the moon is the man and the sun his wife. (D’Orbigny). An Ottawa story describes the sun and the moon as brother and sister. (Schoolcraft). Among the Egyptians Osiris and Isis were the sun and the moon, brother and sister, husband and wife ; among the Peruvians it was the same as with the Egyptians. (Prescott). In England and in France, the sun is the man (Eng. the sun , m., Fr. le soleil) and the moon is the woman (Eng. moon, i, Fr. la lune) ; in Germany, it is the reverse, (der Mond m., die Sonne , fh SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 171 When the “ mone lies sain ” on her back or when her “ horns ” are pointed towards the zenith, be warned in time, for foul weather is at hand. Foul weather may be expected when the “ new moon appears with the old one in her arms.” To see the new moon for the first time on the right hand side direct before you is lucky ; but to see it on the left hand, or to turn round and see it behind you is the contrary. To sew under a waxing moon is beneficent for the crop. Turn your money over when you see the new moon for the first time ; it brings luck. (Gt. Britain) If pregnant women look at the moon, the child will be “ moon-struck.” ( Silesia , Oberpfalz — Wuttke, p. 193). The bacon of swine killed in a waning moon will waste much in cooking. If you see the new moon over the right shoulder, take three steps backwards and repeat the following : “ New moon, true moon, true and bright, If I have a lover let me dream of him to-night. If I am to marry far, let me hear a bird cry ; If I am to marry near, let me hear a cow low ; If I am never to marry, let me hear a hammer knock.”* — Tennessee . and one of these three sounds is always heard. (Bergen, C.S., p. 117). Vide Full-moon . Moonlight : He who sews by moonlight, sews his burial clothes. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 47). Moon, Spots on the : In Indian superstition the spots on the moon represent Krishna milking a cow under a spreading tree ; in England, " the man in the moon.” Moonstone : It has the virtue of making trees fruitful and of curing epilepsy. Moonstone brings luck to the owner. (U.S.A.— W ilkie Collins, Moonstone) . It contains in it an image of the moon, representing the increase and decrease every month. Moosburg : One of Freiherr von Giittingen’s castles. Moosweiber : Same as Buschweiber. Morana : Bohemian Folk-lore. The goddess of death. She has been identified with the Greek Hecate. (Grohmann, p. 6). Moravaya panna : “ Black woman ” ; in Slavic countries this is a frequent disguise of the demon of pestilence. A DICTIONARY OF 172 Morgaine la Faye : “ Morgaine the fairy.” It is believed to the present day that she retains Holger the Dane entranced in Avalon in company with her brother, King Arthur, and other renowned knights. Morpheus : Class. Myth. God of dreams, son of Night and Day. Morta : Rom. Myth. One of the goddesses of fate. She is identical with the Greek Atropos. Moss : To cure barrenness, boil some moss growing on the Temple walls and drink the water. (Jews of Palestine — Schxffer, XJr quell, II, 235). Moth : A moth flying round you presages the arrival of a letter. (Gt. Britain). Mother Carey’s Chicken : Vide Petrel, Albatross. Mountain-climbing : The tongue of an eagle sewn in the collar of one’s coat makes mountain climbing easier. (Alpenburg, p. 384 ; Wuttke, p. 164). Mountain Mother : Same as Great Mother. Mourning : Mourning clothes must not be exchanged for ordinary ones on a Sunday, or someone else will die ; they must neither be discarded without sufficient reason. Mouse : Many mice signify war. ( Alsace — Lambs, p. 30). According to some legends mice are the souls of mur- dered people. If a mouse gnaws our clothes during the night, or nibbles a hole in a bag of flour (Greece — Lawson, p. 328), it is indicative of some impending evil, perhaps even death. If food which a mouse has nibbled be eaten, it will give sore throat. A fried mouse is a specific for small-pox. St. Gertrude and St. Huldrick ward off mice. Suspending a live mouse by the tail before the fire and roasting it expels mice from the house. (Lean, Vol. II, p. 418). In Bohemia the peasants, though they kill field mice and grey mice without scruple, always spare white mice. If a white mouse died, the luck of the house would be gone, and the grey mice would multiply in the house. (Groh- mann, p. 60 ; Frazer, G.B., Vol. II, p. 426). Arab superstition regards a particular species of mouse as inhabited by the souls of an extinct Israelitish tribe. (Bertholet, p. 39), Vide Field Mouse. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 173 Mouth : If anything falls in the corpse’s mouth, the whole family will die. (Franken- — Wuttke, p. 212). Mowing : If a sexton mows the churchyard, rain is sure to come. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 47). Mucus : The nasal mucus is considered by many primitive races to be a powerful amulet. (Frazer, Golden Bough). Mule : Vide Foam. Mulkari : The Mulkari of the North-West Central Queensland is the “ supernatural power who makes everything the blacks cannot otherwise account for ; he is a good, bene- ficent person, and never kills anyone.” He is described as “a benevolent, omnipresent, supernatural being; any- thing incomprehensible.” (Lang, Magic and Rel., p. 40, quoting Mr. Roth). Mumbo Jumbo : An African bogey, hideous and malignant, the terror of women and children. (Dr. Brewer, R.H. P- 737)- Mummy : Mummies must not be carried in a ship or some mis- fortune would happen ; the same applies to corpses. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 47). Vide Corpse. Munda: Hindu. Myth. "Bald”; the name of a demon slain by Durga. Munkir and Nekir : Moham. Myth. Two angels of the Arabs, who examine all the dead and torture the wicked in their graves. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 26). Mura : The Muras of Bohemian folk-lore are identical with the Polish Upior and our own Vampire (q.v ). Murder : The spirits of murdered people must wander about on earth so long as they would have done had they been alive (East Prussia) ; likewise those of people dying an acci- dental death. (Tyrol, Karnthen — Wuttke, p. 217). It is a bad omen to see a murder, or wild animals chased by dogs, orto pass a dead body lying on the ground. (Tibet, Waddell, p. 135). Muscatel : Muscatels kept in one’s pocket is a cure for boils. (Strackerjan, Vol. I, p. 85). A DICTIONARY OF 174 Muses : Class. Myth. Daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne. They were nine in number and presided over the arts ; they dwelt with Apollo on Mt. Parnassus. They were as follows: Clio— the Muse of history. Euterpe — the Muse of music. - Thalia — the Muse of comedy. Melpomene— the Muse of tragedy Terpsichore — the Muse of dancing. Erato — the Muse of elegiac poetry. Polymnia— the Muse of lyric poetry. Urania — the Muse of astronomy, and lastly Calliope — the Muse of eloquence and heroic poetry Music : Persons bitten by the tarantula are supposed to be cured by music. If you imagine you can hear music, it is a sure sign that you are in the presence of some well-disposed spirit {India). Amphion is said to have built the walls of Thebes by the music of his lyre. Hirem and the capital of King Arthur’s kingdom were also built to divine music. The city of Jericho was destroyed by music. (Josh. VI, 20). If you dream of hearing music, you will receive accept- able news. Mussel : A fountain near the waterless sea, which purges from transgression. So called because it is contained in a hollow stone like a mussel-shell. Those who test it enter the water, and, if they are true men, it rises till it covers their heads three times. (Dr. Brewer, R.H., p. 760). Musubi : A Japanese god of growth, who represents an abstract quality. (Aston, Shinto, p. xi), and is said to be a formid- able rival of Amaterasu. Mut : Egypt. Myth. Consort of Amon-Ra, the sun, mother of Chunsu, the moon. She is often represented as lionheaded. Mutilation : Among various tribes, as for example the Indians of Brazil, the Australians, the Chinese, the Japanese, etc., it is believed that the spirit or ghost of a man bears the same mutilation as the body of the man it originally inhabited. (Tylor, P.C., Vol. I, p. 407; Enc. Rel. Eth. Art. Demon — Japanese. Cf. Frazer, Golden Bough, I, 204; id., On Certain Burial Customs as illustrative of the Soul, in Joum. Anthrop. Inst., Vol. XV, p. 66 ; Durkheim, Elementary Forms of Religious Life, pp. 242 seq. ; Ethno- logie du Bengale, p. 90 ; Tylor, Early History, Vol. I, p. 358, id., P.C., Vol. II, p. 230 ; CROOKEi P R- 1-, Vol. I, p. 280). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 175 Myrrha : Class. Myth. Mother of Adonis. She was afterwards changed into a myrrh tree. Myrtle : A girl engaged to be married must not plant myrtles or the wedding willbe broken off. {East Prussia- — Wttttttf p.204). N Nachzehrer : The Vampire (q.v.) is called by this name in some parts of Germany. (Wuttke, p. 221). Nagas : “ Snakes ” ; the local spirits of the Hindus. Nagual : The Nagual of Central America is a kind of guardian spirit in animal form. ° ^ * Naiad : Class. Myth. Certain kinds of nymphs. Nail : A white spot on the thumb nail promises a present * on the index finger it denotes a friend ; on the middle finger, a foe; on the ring finger, a letter or a sweetheart* on the little finger, a journey to go. In England' this is indicated by touching the fingers in turn and repeating the following doggerel verse : “ A friend, a foe, Money to come, a journey to go.” The number of white spots on a person's nails determine the number of years he has to live. ( Alsace — Lambs, p. 20). If the nails of a person suffering from fever be cut * and the parings stuck on with wax on a neighbour's door before sunrise, the fever will be transferred to the neighbour (Pliny, Nat. Hist., XXVIII, 86). 6 The Russian peasants place the parings of a dead person's nails along with the body in the grave, in the belief that the same has to climb a steep hill before reaching Paradise. (Ralston, Songs of the Russian People, 109 ; cf. Frazer] Golden Bough , Vol. I, p. 368$#.). In America white spots on the nail are considered lucky. In East Anglia spots on the thumb nail are more certain of fulfilment than the others. According to the local doggerel: " Spots on the fingers are sure to linger. Spots on the thumb are sure to come." A girl who bites her finger-nails will bring forth children with great difficulty. (Japan — Griffis, M.E. , p, 469). Finger and toe nails should be carefully destroyed, other- wise other people finding them may perform magical operations. (Gt. Britain , France , Germany , India, etc.). 176 A DICTIONARY OF If while cutting nails, a piece springs into the fire, the owner will meet with a speedy death ; the consequences may however be averted by throwing some salt in the fire. Nails should be trimmed just before starting on a journey, and never at night. ( Japan — Griffis, M.E., p. 467). If babies’ nails be cut before they are a year old, they will not grow. If you cut your nails on a Monday, you will have luck all the week ; but if on a Friday, unluck [Gt Britain), or it will bring luck and help to keep away toothaches. ( Germany — Wuttke, pp. 12, 17). If you throw away nail-clippings in the fire either you yourself or your house will catch fire. ( Japan — Chamber- lain, T.J , Ger. tr. p. 18). Vide European. Nail Iron : An iron coffin nail, if accidentally found, is used for various magical purposes, such as for curing diseases, punishing thieves, catching game, etc. Name : If two children belonging to the same family bear the same name, one of them is sure to die. ( Pomerania — Wuttke, p. 197). The real names of persons are often concealed, for fear that others ascertaining it, may perform various magical operations. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 406 sq.) ; Crooke, P.R.I., Vol. II, p. 5). The Finns and Esthonian peasants are very loth to mention wild beasts by their proper names, for they believe that either they will have poor sport, or that the creatures will do them much harm. (Castren, Vorlesungen, p. 201; Boecler-Kreutzwald, p. 120). The Kamtchatkans abstain from mentioning the names of bears, whales and wolves, for they say that these can understand human language. (Steller, p. 276). Bengali women do not mention snakes and thieves by their proper names. ( N.I.N.Q. , 1, 15; EthnologieduBengale p. 83). Various other animals and things are called by names different to their own, generally through fear of their vengeance. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, pp. 451-469). In Brittany, the name of a deceased is not uttered. (le Braz, Vol. I, p. 287). Vide Child. Namtar : Babyl. Myth. They were plague-demons. Nana : Egypt. Myth. Another name for Tashmit. Nandini : Hindu Myth. The cow of plenty belonging to the sage Vasishtha, said to have been bom of Surabhi. The cow of plenty that was produced at the churning of the . ocean. (Dowson, H.C.D., p 218). SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 177 Nanna : Norse Myth. The daughter of King Gevarus of Nor- way. Balder is said to have been in love with her. Narcissus : A flower. According to a Greek fable Narcissus i fell in love with his own reflection in a fountain, and, having pined away because he could not kiss it, was | changed into a flower which bears his name. | Navel : After the first human being was made, the Evil One ;i spat in his stomach, but Allah hastened to tear out the j contaminated flesh, and thus the navel originated. (Tur- kish, Kunos. T.F.T., p. 2. For various superstitions see Ploss, Das Weib, Vol. II, pp. 277 et seq.). Nebo : Assyro-Babyl. Myth. A god of Borsippa which is supposed to be older than Babylon itself. He is the repre- L sentative of wisdom, and to him is the art of writing ascribed, even by the priests of Babylon. | Neck : If the neck of anyone grows stiff, or the muscles of the j head are twisted awry, it is a portent that the person will i die by the neck. (Hazlitt, p. 430). ) Needle : You are inviting trouble if you utter the word | “needle” soon after you wake up in the morning. (Bengal). Death is presaged by the finding of a needle threaded with bla,ck cotton, on the way. ( Silesia — Wuttke, p. 38). If while sewing, the needle breaks in three pieces, it is a sign of a wedding in the near future. (Gt. Britain, Germany, Bohemia.) Needles should not be lent to others, lest they “ prick ” ; your friendship. (Tyrol — Wuttke, p. 135). It is unlucky to pick up a needle in the street. (Gt. | Britain). Cf. Pin. • If a lizard runs over your hand you will be handy with the needle. (Alsace — Lambs, p. 30). Negro : To dream of negroes portends illness or death. (U.S.A. ]' — Knortz, p. 21). i To see a black man the first thing on waking up in the morning is an omen of luck (Gt. Britain). j Nek : Another name for the Nokke, * Nekhebit : Egypt. Myth. Nekhebit and Uatchit were taken by Horus in the form of two serpents, that they might consume the still-remaining rebels by fire. (Wiedemann, Leg. of the Winged Sun-Disk). Nekir : Yid e Munkir; A DICTIONARY OF 178 Nekkan : In Sweden it is the musical spirit of the water. He assumes various shapes and governs the sea. Sometimes he appears as a young man on the surface of the sea, and is especially severe to young maidens who have not treated their lovers well ; hence you should always carry a piece of iron (q.v.) or steel as a protection against him. (Thorpe, N.M., Vo. II, p. 39; Bassett, p. 96). Nekogami : The cat-god possession of Japan. Nemesis : Gr. Myth. An ancient goddess who was the personi- fication of retributive justice. Nemodilky : Bohemian Folklore. Beautiful maidens with coal-black hair falling loosely over their snow-white throats. They are dressed negligently in red, and go about at night enticing young men, whom they drown and are united to them. (Grohmann, p. 11.) Neoptolemus : Gr. Myth. The valiant son of Achilles and Deidamia, who, after the death of his father, joined his forces against Trov. After the fall of Troy, he married Andromache, wife of Hector. He was one of the heroes in the wooden horse, and the husband of Hermione. He was also called Pyrrhus. Nephthys : Egypt. Myth. A goddess, daughter of Seb and Nut, sister and wife of Set, who, with Isis, was especially associated with the ritual of the dead. Neptune : Rom. Myth. Son of Saturn, brother of Jupiter and Pluto, husband of Amphitrite. He was a god of the water, especially of the sea, whose worship was early introduced in Rome. He is usually represented as bearing a trident. Nereid : Certain kinds of nymphs. Class. Myth. A sea-nymph. The Nereids, about fifty or hundred in number, were the daughters of Nereus and Doris, and attendants upon Poseidon. They are represented as riding sea-horses, and are either of entire human form or with the tail of a fish. cf. Mermaid. Nereus : Class. Myth. A god of the sea, husband of Doris, father of the Nereids. , Nergal : Assyro-Babyl. Myth. One of the great gods. He is the god of the Midsummer sun, the sun in its burning aspect, also the god of war and pestilence. In Baby- lonian mythology, he is a sun-god who was worshipped in Cutah. In Assyria he was also a god of chase. Vide Aralu. SUPERSTITIONS AND MYTHOLOGY 179 Nerthus : Teut. Myth. A goddess whose chief seat of worship was the island of Zeeland. According to Tacitus, her character was that of a deity of peace and fertility. Nesnas : Arab. Folklore. It resembles half a human being ; it has half a head, half a body, one arm and one leg, and has the power of human 'speech. It is found in Hadram&t and El-Yemen. (Lane, A.S.M.A., p. 45.) Nessus : Gr. Myth. A Centaur shot with a poisoned arrow by Hercules for trying to outrage the hero’s wife, Deianira. She, by the advice of the dying Centaur, steeped her husband’s shirt in his blood as a love charm ; when he put it on, this shirt poisoned Hercules’ flesh and caused such agony that he killed himself. Nest : If a bird finds a person’s hair, and builds its nest with it, the person will suffer from headache. ( Germany . — Birlinger, Aus Schwaben, p. 509 ; Panzer, Beitrdge, Vol. I, p. 258 ; Wolf, Beitrdge, Vol. I, p. 224 ; Hazlitt, p. 296.) Among the gipsies of Eastern Europe the same superstition prevails. (Frazer, G.B., Vol. I, p. 378, quoting Wlislocki, Z igeuner, p. 81.) Sometimes it is thought that the person whose hair is thus used will have an eruption on the head. {Tyrol. — Zingerle, p. 181.) Net : Hurons and Athabascan Indians married their nets to young girls to obtain luck in fishing. (Bassett, p. 411.) News, Good : Good news is foretold by a flea-bite. (W uttke, p. 34.) Vide Music, Nose. New Year : It is customary in China to cover the outside of doors and windows on this day with paper scrolls containing some mottoes, quotations from ancient literature, etc., as suggestive of material prosperity. [Enc. Rel. Eth., Vol. VIII, p. 260.) In Bengal people put on new clothes on this day, in the belief that they will not be in want for the rest of the year, and nothing is lent or sold on credit. To meet a dark man immediately on getting up on New Year’s mom is a prognostication of luck for the whole year. {Great Britain.) In Tyrol and Silesia the peasantry believe to the present day that numerous phantoms such as , wraiths, headless spirits, etc., can be seen on New Year’s Eve. , i8o A DICTIONARY OF If a person goes at midnight on New Year’s Eve with a candle in each hand in front of a mirror and calls a dead man three times loudly by his name, the face of the deceased will be reflected on the glass. (General. — cf. WuTTKE, p. 224.) “ He who is bom on New Year’s morn. Will have his own way as sure as you’re bom.” Bergen, Cur. Sup., p. 21. Vide Tear, Star. Neznama pani : In and around the district of Holitz, Death personified is designated by this name. Nibelungs : Ger. Myth. The children of the mist ; a race of dwarfs or demoniac beings, and the original possessors of the famous hoard and ring won by Siegfried (q.v.). Nidaba : Babyl. Myth. A goddess of the agricultural type. Nidhogg : Scand. Myth. A dragon or adder that gnaws the roots of the fabled ash-tree Yggdrasil.