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Perelesnyk
Perelesnyk in Ukrainian demonology is a mythical creature that is usually associated with the water element and forests. He is considered a spirit of nature that protects forests and water bodies, and also takes care of their balance and harmony. Perlesnyk is often depicted as a handsome man with an attractive appearance who is able to seduce travelers, especially young women.
The appearance of the Perelesnik can vary, but he often has long, blond hair reminiscent of river currents, and clothes made of natural materials - leaves, flowers or fabrics that blend in with the natural surroundings. Sometimes he is described with fish or bird features, which emphasize his connection with water and the sky.
The trickster is known for his ability to deceive people by creating illusions and luring them into dangerous places. He can visit women in the form of a falling star and incarnate in the image of deceased relatives and loved ones. He especially comes to those women who miss the deceased very much. As a "double" of a deceased loved one, Perelesnyk can enter into a marriage relationship with a woman. Although the Woodcutter can assume human form, he has physical handicaps common to demons, such as the lack of a backbone. These features make his existence disturbing and dangerous.
To protect themselves from the Perelesnik, people used various amulets, avoided confusing paths and followed customs related to nature. There were also rituals aimed at appeasing the spirit, such as leaving small gifts at crossroads or near bodies of water to attract its favor and ward off danger.
The appearance of the Perelesnik can vary, but he often has long, blond hair reminiscent of river currents, and clothes made of natural materials - leaves, flowers or fabrics that blend in with the natural surroundings. Sometimes he is described with fish or bird features, which emphasize his connection with water and the sky.
The trickster is known for his ability to deceive people by creating illusions and luring them into dangerous places. He can visit women in the form of a falling star and incarnate in the image of deceased relatives and loved ones. He especially comes to those women who miss the deceased very much. As a "double" of a deceased loved one, Perelesnyk can enter into a marriage relationship with a woman. Although the Woodcutter can assume human form, he has physical handicaps common to demons, such as the lack of a backbone. These features make his existence disturbing and dangerous.
To protect themselves from the Perelesnik, people used various amulets, avoided confusing paths and followed customs related to nature. There were also rituals aimed at appeasing the spirit, such as leaving small gifts at crossroads or near bodies of water to attract its favor and ward off danger.