#javanese mythology

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The Genderuwo [Javanese mythology; Indonesian mythology]

Mischievous trickster spirits are a very common staple in folktales and myths from around the world. The Genderuwo, a mythical creature from Java, is the Indonesian equivalent of this trope. This spirit enjoys playing pranks on people. Sometimes he asks people to come with him, and then they spontaneously turn invisible if they oblige. They remain invisible forever, unless the creature offers his victim some food. If the food is denied, the victim becomes visible again.

The Genderuwo is a shapeshifter: during the day, he usually takes the form of an animal, like a snake or a tiger. At night, he transforms into a particularly handsome man in order to flirt with women. His true form is that of a giant humanoid creature, usually portrayed with fur. These creatures used to be humans: they are the spirits of men who died by suicide.

He really likes to flirt with women, and is not afraid to get grabby. In fact, women are sometimes told not to talk with men late at night, because they may be a Genderuwo in disguise. Sometimes, a Genderuwo falls in love with a woman. When she enters a relationship with another man, the spirit becomes jealous and angry and throws rocks at their house at night.

Source:
Khairunnisa, A. and Wardhaningsih, M., 2020, A Book of Indonesian Ghosts.
(image source 1: unded on Deviantart)
(image source 2: Neinavn47 on Deviantart)