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Yaksha
Nature spirits that guard treasures, forests, and villages. They can be benevolent protectors or fearsome demons. In Buddhist and Hindu tradition, they serve as guardians and are worshipped for prosperity.
Ancient - Present
South and Southeast Asia
5000+ witnesses
Yakshas are a class of nature spirits in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist mythology.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
Yakshas:
- Are nature spirits
- Guard treasures and natural resources
- Can be benevolent or malevolent
- Associated with fertility
- Widely worshipped
Types
Two main categories:
- Benevolent: Guardians and protectors
- Malevolent: Demons and devourers
- Male: Yaksha
- Female: Yakshini
- Various ranks and powers
Appearance
Yakshas are depicted as:
- Stout, powerful beings
- Sometimes dwarf-like
- Sometimes giant
- Beautiful or terrifying
- Often carrying weapons
Roles
Yakshas serve as:
- Temple guardians
- Treasure protectors
- Forest spirits
- Fertility spirits
- Village protectors
Worship
In South Asia:
- Yaksha shrines are common
- Offerings for prosperity
- Protection prayers
- Ancient cult of worship
- Still venerated today
In Buddhism
Buddhist traditions include:
- Yakshas as dharma protectors
- Converted demons
- Temple guardians
- Mentioned in sutras
- Part of cosmology