léig

Léig is a term primarily used in Irish mythology and folklore. It refers to a magical or enchanted mist or fog that can obscure vision, conceal locations, and create illusions. This supernatural mist is often associated with the Otherworld, the realm of the supernatural beings in Irish tradition.

In many tales, léig is employed by the Aos Sí, the fairy folk, to protect their lands, to mislead mortals who stumble too close to their domains, or to capture unsuspecting individuals. The mist can be so thick that it renders a person completely disoriented, causing them to wander endlessly or to be drawn into the Otherworld against their will. It is not merely a natural phenomenon but a deliberate tool of enchantment, reflecting the mysterious and often elusive nature of the supernatural in Irish lore.

The concept of a magical mist is not unique to Ireland, appearing in various forms in other mythologies and folklore traditions. However, léig holds a specific place within the rich tapestry of Irish supernatural beliefs, symbolizing the veil between the mortal and the immortal realms and the inherent dangers of venturing too far into the unknown. Its presence often signals a shift in the narrative, moving from the mundane to the magical, and serves as a potent symbol of concealment and enchantment.