Vodyanoy
Malevolent Water Spirit
Characteristics
- Rules over bodies of water
- Drowns people and animals
- Controls fish and water creatures
- Demands sacrifices
Appearance
- Old man with green beard/hair
- Frog-like or fish-like features
- Covered in algae/muck
- Sometimes appears as large fish
Description
Vodyanoy is a malevolent water spirit in Slavic mythology who rules over lakes, rivers and ponds. He is said to dwell in deep pools, especially near mills, where he can catch humans and animals to drown.
Fishermen and millers would make offerings to appease him, as he could control the fish and water flow. When angered, he breaks dams, washes away mills, and pulls people underwater.
Behavior
Vodyanoy is particularly active in spring when the ice melts. He drags victims down to his underwater palace where they become his servants. He sometimes appears as a floating log or barrel to trick people.
He keeps herds of fish and other water creatures, sometimes trading them with fishermen for offerings. Those who disrespect the water or fish excessively may be drowned as punishment.
Cultural Traditions
Millers and fishermen would sacrifice animals to Vodyanoy - typically a black rooster, goat or pig thrown into the water. Some traditions involved pouring vodka into the water or leaving bread on the bank.
After Christianization, some aspects of Vodyanoy were transferred to water-related saints, though many traditional practices survived in fishing communities well into modern times.