Devil with the pipe

The Devil with a Pipe is a character in Ukrainian demonology who is often depicted as an insidious and cunning spirit playing a pipe. The devil in this image has a human likeness, but with certain features that betray his unclean origin: he can have horns, a tail, or hooves. However, the most important attribute of the devil is his pipe, with which he is able to charm people. The music he plays can be both seductive and fun, as well as dangerous, as it has the ability to cast a spell, subduing the will of the listeners.

A devil with a pipe often appears in forests or at crossroads, luring people with his tunes. It is known that anyone who hears the playing of his pipe may be forced to dance to exhaustion or follow the devil into the thickets of the forest, where he may get lost. The devil`s music carries magical power and can cause madness, so he was feared, especially at night.

To appease the devil or avoid his influence, people made sacrifices at the crossroads - bread, salt or coins so that the devil would not touch them on the way. To protect against his magic, consecrated charms were used, such as crosses, garlic, or iron objects carried around. It was important not to succumb to the playing of his pipes, not to stop and listen, so as not to fall into his trap.