Velinas : The God of the Dead
Listen
At a glance
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Baltic Mythology |
| Classification | Gods |
| Family Members | Deivas (Brother) |
| Region | Latvia, Lithuania |
| Associated With | Death, Afterlife |
Velinas or Velnias
Introduction
Velnias or Velinas is a god of the Latvian velis or Lithuanian vles, which which can be compared to a modern day zombie. He is a one-eyed prophet who can raise whirlwinds and lead the souls of the dead through the skies. Like the Nordic or Germanic Wodan, he is similar to the Pickollos or Patollos from the Old Prussian and Lithuanian traditions.
Velnias was the assistant of the gods but his legend contains more than that. In the earliest layer of Baltic mythology, Velnias was seen as one of the cosmological creator beings and as one of the creators of the material world. His connection to death and reincarnation dates back to prehistoric times and Baltic ancestral worship.
Physical Traits
Velnias could appear in various forms, and in most Baltic folk tales, shape sifting is a common element. He was associated with reptiles, birds, and animals. He could also take the form of people from different professions and ages.
In folk tales, Velnias was described as a physically attractive man who seeks the love of women and sometimes even married them. Stories about Velnias and his relationship with women were very much disapproved by Christians which later on increased his questionable reputation.
In folklore, Velnias is regarded as a creature that’s capable of being both clever and stupid. Most commonly, it’s described as an anthropomorphic creature that features a tail, horns, and a pair of hooved feet. However, since the devil in Christian beliefs was also depicted in this form, it’s hard to tell the difference between the real and post-Christian version. Velnias is said to live in various locations, such as barns, ponds, caves, and marshlands. In folk tales, he is associated with stones, and he carries it in an attempt to throw it into a church.
Family
The singular entity known as Velnias is considered to be a giant, similar to Dievas, the sky god who has been said to be either his brother or father. They are two opposing forces of which Deivas creates everything that’s perfect, such as the plains and fields. On the other hand, Velnias creates everything that’s chaotic, such as the mountains and rocks.
Other Names
Velnias was also called Velinas, Vels, or Velns depending on the region that he was worshipped in.
Powers and Abilities
In Lithuanian mythology, Velnias is regarded as an antagonist of Perkunas, and he was associated with the treasures found within the Earth. He was also tasked with protecting the poor and punishing those who do evil deeds, such as drunkards, thieves, and dishonest individuals.
Velnias was helpful to people, helping them to build churches, bridges, and land. He also provided assistance to hunters and blacksmiths, and he would sometimes tempt them into committing sin. He additionally made fun of them, and he would sometimes harm them in various ways.
It is believed that Velnias is afraid of rowan, ivy, linden, hazel, juniper and candle light. Much like the traditional devil, Velnias is also fearful of all sacred things: the rosary, the cross and the holy bread.
Modern Day Influence
With the growth and spread of Christianity, the need to make both pagan and modern Christianity exist side by side influenced many characters in Baltic mythology. Some characters like Velnias were merged with Christian understanding of Satan to provide relatability to the concept of death and the afterlife.
Related Images
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Velinas the god of the dead in Baltic mythology?
In Baltic mythology, Velinas (also known as Vėlinas or Vėlės) is regarded as the god of the dead and the ruler of the underworld. He is often associated with the spirits of the deceased and is believed to guide souls to the afterlife. Velinas embodies themes of death, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of life. He plays a significant role in the funerary practices of the Baltic peoples, where offerings and rituals are made to honor and appease him, ensuring a smooth passage for the souls of the departed. Velinas is a complex figure, representing both the fear and reverence surrounding death in Baltic culture.
Is Veles a good god?
Veles, in Slavic mythology, is a complex deity often associated with the underworld, cattle, commerce, and magic. His characterization varies across different narratives; he is sometimes viewed as a trickster or antagonist, particularly in his conflicts with Perun, the god of thunder and order. While Veles can embody chaos and darkness, he is also associated with fertility and prosperity, especially regarding livestock and the earth. Therefore, whether Veles is considered a “good” god depends on the context and perspective, reflecting the duality of his nature as both a protector and a challenger of order.
What are the key attributes of Velinas in Baltic mythology?
Velinas is primarily known as the god of the dead and the ruler of the underworld. He is associated with the spirits of the deceased and the journey of souls after death. Velinas embodies themes of death, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of existence.
How is Velinas worshipped in Baltic traditions?
Worship of Velinas often includes funerary rituals and offerings made to honor the dead. Families may prepare meals or leave gifts at gravesites to appease him and ensure safe passage for the souls of the departed. These practices reflect the importance of maintaining a connection with ancestors.
What role does Velinas play in Baltic folklore?
In Baltic folklore, Velinas serves as a guardian of the underworld, guiding souls to the afterlife. He is depicted as both a protector of the deceased and a figure of fear, highlighting the mystery surrounding death. His character reflects the cultural attitudes toward mortality and the reverence for those who have passed.
