Hammu Qaiyu

Hammu Qaiyu is the male counterpart of Aisha Qandisha. Just as she lures men into danger, so Hammu’s pursuit of women travelling alone at night often has fatal or at least scary consequences. Hammu Qaiyu is not only a nocturnal pest, however. He is a powerful oracular spirit, summoned during ceremonies to engage in ritual possession. When possessed, his devotees dance with knives, swords, and daggers.

He is considered Aisha’s official husband. Like her, his identity is subject to debate. He may be a powerful Djinn or even an Afarit. Alternatively he may be Ba’al Hammon whose fortunes have taken a downturn since the days when he was widely venerated in Carthage. Hammu Qaiyu craves blood, perhaps harking back to the days when he was offered blood sacrifices. He lingers near slaughterhouses and abattoirs. He has a fondness for menstruating women. He is a dangerous spirit, but if he likes you, he can be an exceptionally powerful and aggressive guardian.

ALSO KNOWN AS:

Hammou Ukaiou; Hammu Ukaiou; Ba’al Hammou

FAVOURED PEOPLE:

Butchers

COLOUR:

Blood red

Offering:

Red jawi incense (Styrax benzoin)

SEE ALSO:

• Afarit
• Aisha Qandisha
• Ba’al
• Ba’al Hammon
• Djinn

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.