The fascination with the mystical world is strong in ASEAN, where everything is often associated with supernatural elements. These invisible creatures are closely linked to animistic and dynamic beliefs that shape similar perspectives within families and local communities. This ultimately reflects the culture and beliefs of the community, building on inherited philosophies and thoughts.
Exploring mythology in ASEAN cultures reveals fascinating stories born from perspectives and beliefs that form supernatural beliefs such as fireball spirits. Different ASEAN countries refer to them differently, with Thailand calling them "Bong Fai Phayanak", Indonesia having the myth of "Banaspati" fireballs, and Malaysia referring to them as "Polong".
Regardless of the belief in these fireball spirits, it is fascinating to study the perceptual phenomenon of fireballs. Although they may appear similar, each country has a distinct mystical view of fireballs that reflects their deeper social connections. These different perspectives are influenced by myths and beliefs about supernatural forces that are believed to affect everyday life. All of this is reflected in the strong influence of local culture within the surrounding communities.
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Indonesia: Banaspati
Banaspati is a mystical concept deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, particularly in Java, that depicts a large, fireball-shaped spirit. Believed to be a legendary creature, the belief in Banaspati dates back to the time of the Majapahit kingdom and originated from someone who possessed black magic.
According to folklore, Banaspati has two forms: a fireball and a fireman. The size of the Banaspati fireball can expand in moments of fear. Meanwhile, the Banaspati fireman takes the form of a human body engulfed in flames, walking on two hands with big eyes. It is believed that Banaspati, in any form, has humans as its targets.
Apart from its mystical aspects, Banaspati is also reflected in Indonesian culture, especially in the architecture of Javanese temples. Relief sculptures of Banaspati, depicted as a giant frog at temple entrances, symbolize protection against evil forces that seek to defile the sanctity of the temple. Banaspati is often depicted with a large head engulfed in flames, especially his beard and hair. In Javanese mythology, Banaspati is also identified with Kirtimukha or Mahakala. In ancient Indian mythology, Kirtimukha is a wrathful giant created to destroy the demon Jalandhara.
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Thailand: Bong Fai Phayanak
Thai society, especially in Nong Khai, Vientiane, and Bolikhamxai, believes in Bong Fai Phayanak (Dragon Fireballs). This knowledge has been passed down by elders to preserve these beliefs. Originally called Ghost Fire, it is now called Bong Fai Phayanak (Dragon Fireballs) due to advances in mystical knowledge.
Dragon fireballs, or "bong fai phayanak", are supernatural phenomena that occur every October on the Mekong River. It is believed that these fireballs were shot by the Mekong River dragon as an expression of Buddha's disappointment that he could not become a human being. In response, the Buddha made the Mekong River dragon a symbol of purity, so the fireballs are seen as a welcoming sign for the Buddha's arrival, bringing good fortune and peace to the community.
Malaysia: Hantu Polong
Malaysian society also encounters the mystical concept of fire through Polong, often referred to as fireballs. Polong is considered a spiritual entity capable of bringing misfortune to enemies or undesirable individuals. Believed to originate from sacrificial blood, Polong is kept in a small vial with the fresh blood of its owner, which serves as its seed. After consuming this blood, the polong will obey the commands of its owner.
According to Malaysian belief, Polong is often sent to harm people by appearing as insect-like creatures resembling locusts, which bite the victims, followed by the arrival of Polong, causing the victim's living space to heat up and cause suffering. To prevent Polong from harming its target, it is believed that showing Polong flying in front of someone who sees it can cause Polong to burst and not reach its target.
Source: Kurniasih, D., & Krismonita, F. Y. (2023). The fireball ghosts, in three major countries of Southeast Asia culture. SHAHIH: Journal of Islamicate Multidisciplinary, 8(1), 26–33. https://doi.org/10.22515/shahih.v8i1.5971
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