Introduction to Yakut Sakha Folklore

The Yakuts, an indigenous people of Siberia, have a rich cultural heritage that includes a variety of myths and legends. These stories and folklore provide a deep insight into their ancient beliefs and the natural world around them. In this article, we delve into some of the most fascinating elements of Yakut Sakha folklore, shedding light on mythical creatures and mysterious beings.

Mythical Creatures of Yakut Folklore

The Yakuts' mythology is complex and extensive, with many creatures and beings playing significant roles in their stories. Here, we will explore a few prominent examples, including the Bull of Cold, Chuchuna, and the Labynkyr Lake Monster.

The Bull of Cold

The Bull of Cold is an iconic figure in Yakut folklore, symbolizing the power and inevitability of winter. This mythical creature is believed to emerge from the icy northern oceans, personifying the harshness of winter. According to ancient Yakut beliefs, the Bull of Cold is born from the ocean, which is seen as a source of water, and carries winter back to the land. This figure may have roots in prehistoric times, with some researchers suggesting that the prototype of the Bull of Cold could be based on the mammoth, a large and magnificent creature that once roamed these regions.

The Chuchuna

The Chuchuna is a mysterious and intimidating figure in Yakut folklore. Described as a towering humanoid, covered in long hair, and wearing animal skins, the Chuchuna is known for his inarticulate speech. This mysterious being has the unfortunate habit of stealing deer and food, and he is known to attack people at night, either shooting arrows or throwing stones at them. Despite the Chuchuna's sinister reputation, there is a scientific hypothesis that suggests he might be a relict hominoid, similar to the Bigfoot or Yeti of North America. This theory adds an intriguing layer of mystery to the Chuchuna's legend, suggesting that these mythical creatures might hold a kernel of truth.

The Labynkyr Lake Monster

The remote and frigid Labynkyr Lake, located near the coldest settlement on Earth, Oymyakon, is believed to be home to a legendary creature known as the Labynkyr Lake Monster. This elusive figure has appeared only a handful of times, and not everyone has managed to see it. Over centuries, the legend of this mysterious monster has been passed down by word of mouth, capturing the imagination of locals and visitors alike.

Syullyukyun: Aquatic Spirits of Yakut Mythology

Another fascinating aspect of Yakut folklore is the Syullyukyun, spirits that dwell in the depths of the waters. These creatures are known to emerge from ice holes on Christmas days, specifically from January 7 to 19. Unlike most mythical beings, the Syullyukyun are not inherently evil. Instead, they are playful and mischievous, though they can predict one's future. According to some accounts, they love to play cards and win money, but the winnings turn into moss in the sunlight, a strange and inexplicable occurrence.

Yakut Mythological Creatures and Deities

Yakut mythology is replete with a variety of deities and spirits. For instance, the Abasy abaahy are countless evil deities and spirits that inhabit different realms, from the lower to the upper worlds. This name comes from the root 'aba', meaning 'evil', and the word is commonly used in Yakut epic poems such as the Olonkho. These entities are often called Yuyor by the Yakuts, spirits that can appear to people after the unnatural or premature death of an individual. Yuyors are invisible but can cause phenomena such as the ringing in one's ears, believed by the Yakuts to be the sound of the yuyor crying somewhere.

The Deretnik: A Revived Corpse of Evil Spirits

One of the most chilling figures in Yakut mythology is the Deretnik, a revived corpse that is possessed by evil spirits. Deretniks can manifest in several ways, including evil shamans who have bequeathed their bodies to demons, suicide victims, and ordinary people who, according to their relatives, were killed by malevolent spirits. These beings are depicted in vivid detail, often described as corpse-like entities that lack their former personalities and exhibit signs of decomposition, such as blackened skin and convulsive movements. They are extremely strong and fast, insensitive to injuries, and exhibit a relentless desire to kill and consume all living beings in their path.

According to Yakut beliefs, a person can become a Deretnik within 24 hours after death if they are not buried according to special rules. The only way to exorcise these evil entities is through a powerful shaman, who performs a ritual to drive out the spirits. This legend is a potent reminder of the Yakuts' deep-seated fears and superstitions, reflecting the harsh realities of their often perilous environment.