Bagadjimbiri

In Australian Aboriginal mythology, Bagadjimbiri are twin culture heroes of the Karadjeri people from northwestern Australia. Initially, these divine brothers appeared in the form of dingoes, embodying the wild and cunning nature of the animal. As they roamed the land, they played a crucial role in shaping the world and humanity. Among their most significant acts were the creation of water holes, vital sources of life in the arid Australian landscape, and the gifting of sexual organs to humankind, a symbolic act that enabled procreation and the continuation of life. They also instituted the sacred rite of circumcision, marking an important cultural tradition for the people.

Over time, the twins transformed into gigantic men, and their playful and boisterous laughter began to irritate Ngariman, a cat man and a figure of considerable power. Enraged by their noise, Ngariman gathered his relatives and allies, and together they launched a brutal attack, spearing the brothers to death. This tragic event struck their mother, Dilga, the earth goddess, with deep sorrow. In her grief, she used her divine powers to cause milk to flow from her breasts, a powerful symbol of nurturing and life. This flood of milk drowned the killers and, miraculously, revived her sons.

After their resurrection, the Bagadjimbiri chose to depart from the earthly realm. Their physical bodies transformed into water snakes, creatures deeply connected to the rivers and waterholes they had once created. Meanwhile, their spirits ascended to the sky, taking their place among the celestial beings. In this way, the twins continued to exert their influence over the natural world, with their presence immortalized in both the earthly waters and the heavenly sky, symbolizing their enduring legacy in Karadjeri mythology.

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow
Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante