Shikigami

ALSO KNOWN AS:

Shikijin

ORIGIN:

Japan

Shikigami are spirits summoned to serve Onmyoji, Japanese shamanic yin-yang magicians, and are similar to the Western concept of a wizard’s familiar. They are shape-shifting spirits. Many take the form of a bird or small animal; more powerful Shikigami can even possess a person. Examples of Shikigami may be found in the CLAMP manga and anime series Tokyo Babylon.

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.