Jawnomicon

Baku

In Japanese mythology, Baku is a chimera with elements of a tiger, an elephant, and an ox. It devours nightmares, but too many calls for its help may also consume one's hopes.

At a glance

Tradition
Japanese folklore
Symbols
Elephant

Symbols

Judged against the description by a model. Meanings are our own paraphrase.

Traits

Read from the figure's description, which a model wrote. Open "why" for the sentence a trait came from.

Form

  • Hybrid of multiple animals
    why

    The Baku, a mythical creature from Japanese folklore, is a fascinating chimera that embodies elements of several powerful animals.

  • Bovine features on monstrous body
    why

    Its legs are said to be reminiscent of an ox, providing a sturdy foundation for its unique form.

Behaviour

  • Summoned by speaking its name
    why

    It was believed that if one woke from a nightmare, they could summon the Baku by calling out its name.

  • Overuse of power turns harmful
    why

    However, this power came with a cautionary tale: excessive reliance on the Baku's abilities could lead to unintended consequences.

  • Devours nightmares
    why

    Known primarily for its ability to devour nightmares, the Baku serves as a protective spirit in Japanese mythology.

Omens

  • Guardian spirit omen
    why

    Known primarily for its ability to devour nightmares, the Baku serves as a protective spirit in Japanese mythology.

Offensive powers

  • Soul drain
    why

    The creature would then come and consume the bad dream, allowing the person to return to peaceful sleep.

Roles

Judged from the works' own entries, not from the description. Carries: the figure holds the role. Meets: the role is in its stories, held by something it meets.