Samovili

Samovili

ALSO KNOWN AS:

Samodivi

Samovili are the Macedonian branch of the Vila family—Fairies of lakes and forests. Samovili is plural; the singular, Samovila, usually but not always refers to their leader. Some Samovili may also serve the great moon goddess Bendis.

Samovili are goddesses of thresholds. They serve as Birth Fairies and psychopomps. Once venerated as healing, shamanic spirits who bestowed beauty, fertility, and health, post-Christianity they developed a malevolent reputation. Samovili are accused of luring men to their doom and causing havoc, harm, and mayhem. Samovili are sometimes accused of causing illness or even death. This may be defamation but possibly reflects their traditional role as psycho-pomps, providing escort service for the dead.

Samovili dance in the forest. Those who maintain lush, aromatic flower gardens may discover Samovili dancing there, too. They are loyal and protective towards those humans who treat them with respect or who have done them a good turn, but may otherwise be temperamental and volatile.

MANIFESTATION:

At night, Samovili manifest as beautiful women. They may appear completely human or as winged and/or hoofed women. Samovili who wish to move about during the daytime may manifest as weather formations like violent storms or whirlwinds.

SEE ALSO:

Bendis; Fairy; Fairy, Birth; Rusalka; Samovila; Vila

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.