ghul

Ghul, also transliterated as ghūl or ghoul, is a demon from Arabic folklore associated with graves, deserts, and predation on humans. In traditional stories, a ghul is a shapeshifting spirit that roams desolate places, robs graves, and feeds on human flesh. The creature appears in both pre-Islamic and Islamic-era lore and has given rise to the English term ghoul to describe monstrous beings that feast on corpses or harm travelers.

Etymology and form: The word derives from the Arabic al-ghūl, meaning “the demon” or “the devourer.” In classic folklore, ghuls dwell in tombs or wastelands and are capable of disguising themselves, commonly taking the form of a beautiful person to lure victims before revealing their true, monstrous nature. They are sometimes described as male or female and may abduct or consume people and bodies. Some tales emphasize that ghuls guard graves rather than roam widely.

Habitat and behavior: Ghuls are said to inhabit deserts, ruins, and cemeteries. They prey on travelers at night, particularly those who ignore omens or trespass on sacred spaces. Traditional warnings advise against graveyard visits after dark and encourage protective measures such as Qur’anic recitation and prayers to ward off harm.

Influence and modern usage: The concept of the ghul has permeated Western fantasy as a generic demon or grave-robber. The name appears in literature, film, and games, where various flesh-eating or shape-shifting beings are described as ghuls. A related usage is the DC Comics character Ra’s al Ghul, whose name is drawn from the same Arabic root and translates roughly as “Head of the Demon.”