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Kikimora
Kikimora is a demonic creature in Ukrainian and pan-Slavic mythology that is often associated with household spirits and is considered an evil spirit that harms the household and family. Kikimora lives in people`s houses, usually hiding behind the stove, under the floor or in corners where it is difficult to see. She may be invisible, but her presence is felt through the chaos and disorder she causes.
A kikimora is usually described as a small, stooped woman with long, matted hair, sometimes with bird or mouse features. She may be dressed in old, tattered rags. In some versions, she can resemble an old woman who moves slowly and constantly whispers under her breath.
Kikimura`s main purpose is to bring misfortune to the house: she can tangle threads, spoil fabric on a loom, spill milk or break dishes. It was believed that Kikimora, which has grown in the house, brings diseases, quarrels and financial troubles. She can incite family members to quarrels, especially between husband and wife. In addition, there is a belief that Kikimora can come to a house where cleanliness and order are not observed, and it is the disorder that attracts her.
There were two main types of Kikimore:
Domestic Kikimora - lives in the house and causes damage to the household.
Forest Kikimora - dwells in the forest, similar to Mawok and Foresters, but is less well-known and less often mentioned in legends.
To get rid of Kikimora or to protect against it, the owners used charms. For example, a broom or a juniper branch was placed in front of the stove, which scared away Kikimora. It was also believed that regular cleaning in the house and maintaining order helps to avoid its appearance. Sometimes special rituals were performed to drive Kikimora out of the house, including consecration of the house or burning of herbs. Prayers and the use of holy water were also considered effective in protecting the home from this evil force.
A kikimora is usually described as a small, stooped woman with long, matted hair, sometimes with bird or mouse features. She may be dressed in old, tattered rags. In some versions, she can resemble an old woman who moves slowly and constantly whispers under her breath.
Kikimura`s main purpose is to bring misfortune to the house: she can tangle threads, spoil fabric on a loom, spill milk or break dishes. It was believed that Kikimora, which has grown in the house, brings diseases, quarrels and financial troubles. She can incite family members to quarrels, especially between husband and wife. In addition, there is a belief that Kikimora can come to a house where cleanliness and order are not observed, and it is the disorder that attracts her.
There were two main types of Kikimore:
Domestic Kikimora - lives in the house and causes damage to the household.
Forest Kikimora - dwells in the forest, similar to Mawok and Foresters, but is less well-known and less often mentioned in legends.
To get rid of Kikimora or to protect against it, the owners used charms. For example, a broom or a juniper branch was placed in front of the stove, which scared away Kikimora. It was also believed that regular cleaning in the house and maintaining order helps to avoid its appearance. Sometimes special rituals were performed to drive Kikimora out of the house, including consecration of the house or burning of herbs. Prayers and the use of holy water were also considered effective in protecting the home from this evil force.