Barong
In Balinese mythology, Barong is a lion-like creature covered in thick fur. It leads the forces of good in dance battles against evil spirits, energizing those who watch.
At a glance
- Tradition
- Indonesian folklore
- Trait family
- The Storm-Winged
- Symbols
- Lion
Near this figure
Symbols
Judged against the description by a model. Meanings are our own paraphrase.
- Lion is The lion is ambivalent: solar majesty, courage, justice, guardianship, and resurrection coexist with lunar maternity, cruelty, war, destructive heat, and death.
why
In Balinese mythology, Barong is a lion-like creature covered in thick fur.
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 Barong's body is powerful and agile, combining the strength of a lion with the grace of a dancer.
Behaviour
- Embodied through masked ceremonial performer
why
the Barong is not just a mythical creature but a living entity that manifests through elaborate masks and costumes worn by skilled performers.
- Trance-inducing ritual dance performance
why
The energy emanating from the Barong during performances is palpable, often inducing a state of trance in both performers and spectators.
Utility powers
- Blessing bestowal
why
It is said to possess the ability to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to those who witness its dance.
- Cosmic balance
why
This performance is more than mere entertainment; it's a spiritual ritual that is believed to maintain the balance between good and evil in the world.
- Emotional manipulation
why
The energy emanating from the Barong during performances is palpable, often inducing a state of trance in both performers and spectators.
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.