siluman

Siluman is a term used in Indonesian and Malay folklore to refer to shapeshifting spirits or supernatural beings. These creatures are often depicted as capable of transforming into human form or the form of animals, most commonly a tiger or a snake. The concept of siluman is deeply ingrained in the cultural beliefs of many communities in the Malay Archipelago and is often associated with the natural world, particularly forests and water bodies, which are believed to be their habitats.

Beliefs surrounding siluman vary across different regions and ethnic groups. Some traditions portray them as benevolent beings who can offer protection or assistance to humans, while others warn of their mischievous or malevolent nature. Encounters with siluman are often described in folklore as instances where humans either stumble upon their true form or are tricked by their disguises. Rituals and amulets are sometimes employed to ward off or appease these entities. The concept of siluman reflects a worldview where the boundary between the physical and spiritual realms is fluid, and where the natural world is imbued with animate spirits.