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July 4, 2024 20 mins
Join me, Jane Bee, on this captivating episode of the LilWeird Podcast as we delve into the mystical world of Philippine mythology with "Exploring the Ancient Deities of the Philippines: The First Generation Gods." Discover the fascinating stories of Bathala, Amanikable, Mapulon, Lakapati, and Idiyanale—gods and goddesses who shaped the Filipino spiritual landscape. From creation myths to tales of fertility and labor, these deities offer a unique glimpse into a rich cultural heritage.

In this episode, we’ll cover:
  • The creation myths surrounding Bathala, the supreme deity.
  • The tempestuous nature of Amanikable, the god of the sea.
  • Mapulon’s influence over the changing seasons and agriculture.
  • The unique and nurturing Lakapati, goddess of fertility and inclusivity.
  • Idiyanale’s role as the goddess of labor and good deeds.
Don’t miss out—subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the podcast. Stay curious, stay weird, and join me in uncovering the mysteries of the gods and goddesses of the Philippines!

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Transcript

Episode Transcript

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(00:03):
Hey there, welcome back to theLittle Word podcast. I'm your host,
Jane, and today we're diving intosomething truly fascinating and a bit mysterious,
the ritual of Philippine mythology. Sothe other day I was just crawling through
some articles on Philippine mythology and stumbledupon the gods and goddesses of the Philippines.

(00:25):
And guess what, we have apantheon of taties. Just like the
Greeks and Romance. Some of thesegods and goddesses have such interesting personalities and
backstories. It's like finding a treasuretrove of epic tales right in our backyard.
I was totally blown away. Ithought, why not share this amazing
discovery with you. So today we'regoing to explore these captivating deities together.

(00:50):
There's a whole bunch of them.So for this episode, we'll focus on
the first generation of gods and goddesses. This way we won't get overwhelmed and
can really get to know them better. Join me as well into the stories
of Badhala, Amanicable, Mapolon Da, Kapati and Idianale. In this episode,
will uncover the stories of these divinebeings, exploring their powers, their

(01:15):
meats, and the ways they influencethe lives of those who worship them.
So grab your earphones and get readyto immerse yourself in the world of Philippine
mythology. Let's unravel the mysteries ofthe gods and goddesses who have left an
indelible mark on the cultural heritage ofthe Philippines is Stay tuned, because this

(01:36):
is an episode you won't want tomiss. Before the arrival of Spanish colonizers,
the Philippines was a land teeming withdiverse cultures and spiritual beliefs. Much
like the ancient Greeks with their Olympiangods or Donors with their pantheon of powerful
deities, early Filipinos worship a hostof gods and goddesses who rode over various

(01:59):
aspects of the natural and spiritual world. At the heart of these beliefs was
animism, the idea that everything innature, from the towering mountains to the
flowing rivers, the whispering means tothe blazing sun, possess a spirit or
life force. This belief system gaverise to a complex and fascinating mythology where

(02:20):
gods and goddesses were not just distantfigures in the heavens, but were intimately
connected to the daily lives and surroundingsof the people. The supreme deity of
the Tagalog people, but Halla,also known as bat Halla Mai Kappal or
Abba, was seen as the creatorof the universe, a figure akin to
Zeus or Odin, wielding immense powerand wisdom. But Halla's domain was the

(02:44):
sky, and he governed the naturalworld with the help of other deities,
each with their own unique roles andstories. The name but Hala is derived
from the Sanskrit word Batara, whichmeans noble lord. This etymological connection reflects
the influence of Hindu Buddhist culture inpre colonial Philippines, especially in the areas

(03:05):
of language and religion. Over time, the term evolved to Bathala, embodying
the highest god into the Gallog Panthianand signifying his supreme status and reverence among
the early Philippinos. Just as Batalaholds a central place in Philippine mythology,
other cultures have their own supreme deitieswith similar rules and attributes. But Haala

(03:25):
is often regarded as the king ofthe gods, holding dominion over all other
deities and spirits. He is creditedwith creating the earth's sky and everything that
exists in the world. Batala's roleas a creator makes him a central figure
in the Galla cosmology, but Halais also seen as a benevolent god who
looks after humanity, providing them withprotection and guidance. One of the primary

(03:50):
myths involving Bathala describes how he createdthe world. According to the myth,
Batala lived in the heavens and wasinvolved in a battle with a Bayan's serpent
called ulilam Kalulua. After defeating theserpent, Batala established peace in the heavens.
Later, he met the bird godAmihan and the sigod Amanikable. Together

(04:11):
they created the earth and everything onit. But Halla's family and relationships with
other deities are also integral to hishistory. He is often depicted as having
several children who assist in governing thevarious aspects of the world. Mayari,
the goddess of the moon and oneof Bathala's daughters, Shimbadi's beauty and resilience.
Mayari shares a close bond with herfather and often assists in matters of

(04:35):
the night and celestial events. Tala, the goddess of the stars. Tada
lies up the nice sky and guidetravelers. She is another of Bathala's daughters,
representing guidance and hope. Hanan,the goddess of the morning and dawn.
Hannan brings the mid day and freshbeginnings. She is yet another child

(04:55):
of Batala, symbolizing renewal and light. In precolonial times, but Haalo was
worshiped by the Tagallo people through variousrituals and offerings. Tempos and altars were
dedicated to him, and he wasoften invoke during important life events such as
births, marriages, and harvests.But Halla's influence was pervasive, touching every

(05:16):
aspect of daily life and ensuring thewell being of his people. But Halla
is often symbolized by the Sun andother celestial bodies, representing his supreme power
and presence in the universe. Thearrival of Spanish colonizers and the subsequent spread
of Christianity significantly altered the religious landscapeof the Philippines. Many indigenous beliefs and

(05:38):
practices were suppressed or blended with Christianelements. Despite this, the legacy of
Batala remains an important part of Filipinocultural heritage and mythology. As we continue
our journey through the pantheon of Philippinemythology, it's turned our attention to Ammannikable,
the formidable god of the sea.Known for his tempestuousness nature, Amnicably

(06:00):
played a crucial role in the livesof the early Filipinos, particularly those living
along the vast costlines of the archipelago. A Manicable, also known as a
Mansinaia in some accounts, is tothe gadic god of the sea. His
domain is the vast and unpredictable ocean, which he could burance with both power
and ferocity. A Manicabla is oftendepicted as ei stern and sometimes vengeful deity,

(06:27):
embodying the unpredictable and often dangerous natureof the sea. According to myth,
Manicable was once a peaceful deity whofell in love with a mortal woman.
However, his love was unrequited andthe heartache turned his disposition sour.
This emotional turmoil transform Amnicable into avengeful god who would unditious storms and turbulen

(06:48):
seas in fits of rage. Fishermenand seafarers held Maniccable in both awe and
fear, believing that his mood swimscould determine the faith of their boy.
They would offer prayers and sacrifices toappease him, seeking safe passage and bountiful
catches. His wrath could be devastating, with stories of shipwrecks and drowned sailors

(07:12):
attributed to his anger. Amanikable sharessimilarities with other sea deities from various cultures,
reflecting a common human experience of reverencein fear for the ocean. In
Greek mythology, Poseidon is the godof the sea, earthquakes, and horses.
Like Amanicable, Poseidon is known forhis temperamental nature, capable of both

(07:33):
calm and violent seas. He willsa trident and commands all aquatic creatures,
making him a powerful figure among theGreek gods. In Norse mythology, Niord
is the god of the sea,wind and prosperity, andli Like Amnicablenord is
generally considered a benevolent deity, breachingwealth and comm seas to those who honor

(07:55):
him. However, the wild andunpredictable nature of the sea is a common
In Hindu mythology, Varuna is thegod of the oceans, rivers, and
the cosmic order. He is oftendepicted as a just and fair deity,
but his dominion over the vast anddeep waters evokes a sense of awe and
respect, similar to omnicabolists. Inthe costal communities of the Philippines, a

(08:20):
monicablist influence was deeply felt. Ritualsand offerings were made to seek his favor,
especially before embarking on sea budges orfishing expeditions. These practices highlight the
dependence of these communities on the seaand their need to placate its deity.
A monicablist wrath was not only fearedbut also respected, embodying the dual nature

(08:43):
of the sea as both a giverof life and a harbager of destruction.
This duality is a common theme inmany maritime cultures, where the ocean is
seen as a source of sustenance andperilous force. All the direct worship of
a monycablet may have waned over thecenturies, his legacy endures in Filipino folklore
and cultural traditions. His stories ofhis tempestuous nature serve as cautionary tales about

(09:07):
the respect and reverence owed to thenatural world, particularly the powerful and unpredictable
sea. Next will meet Mapullan,the God of seasons, and discover his
role in the natural world and agriculturalcycles. Mapullon, the God of seasons,
brings balance to the natural world asthe deity who controls the changing of

(09:28):
the seasons. Napollan's influence is feltin the cycles of planting and harvest,
life and death. His history remindsus of the interconnectedness of all things and
the eternal ridom of nature. Mapullanis a lesser known but equally important deity
in the god of mythology. Asthe god of seasons, he plays a
crucial role in the natural world,governing the cycles of planting, growth,

(09:52):
and harvest that are vital to theagrarian lifestyle of the early Filipinos. His
influence extends over the various stages ofthe agricultural cycle, ensuring that the timing
of planting and harvesting aligns with thenatural rhythms of the earth. This makes
him an essential deity for farmers whorely on his favor for successful crops.

(10:15):
In mythology, Mapullan is sometimes depictedas a gentle and nurturing figure, embodying
the seasonal changes that bring life andrenewal. He is married to La Kapati,
the goddess of fertility and agriculture,forming a divine partnership that oversees the
sustenance and prosperity of the land.Mapullan's role as the god of seasons is

(10:37):
mirrored in various cultures around the world, where deities are responsible for the natural
cycles of growth and renewal. InGreek mythology, Demeter is the goddess of
the harvest and agriculture. She presidesover the growth of crops and the fertility
of the earth, much like Mapullan. Her story with her daughter Persephony also

(10:58):
explains the changing season, symbolizing thecycles of life and death. In Roman
mythology, Series is the goddess ofagriculture, grain, crops, fertility,
and motherly relationships. Like Mapullan,she is intimately connected to the earth's fertility
and the seasonal cycles that sustain life. In Japanese mythology, Innerre is the

(11:20):
deity of rice, fertility, andagriculture. Inre's influence over the growth of
rice and the prosperity it brings reflectsMapullan's role in ensuring bountiful harvests. In
the agricultural communities of the Philippines,Mapullan was a vital figure. Farmers would
offer prayers and sacrifices to ensure hisfavor, particularly at the start of the

(11:43):
planting season and during harvest time.His blessings were sought to ensure that the
crops would grow abundantly and be protectedfrom natural calamities. Festivals and rituals dedicated
to Mapullan often marked the beginning ofthe planting season and the end of the
harvest. These ceremonies were not onlyacts of devotion, but also communal celebrations

(12:05):
that reinforce the cultural importance of agricultureand the seasons. Mapulan's influence extends beyond
agriculture, symbolizing the natural cycles thatgovern in all life. His role as
a god of seasons highlights the interconnectednessof living things and the importance of respecting
and harmonizing with the natural world.In modern times, while the erect worship

(12:28):
of Mapulan may have diminished, hislegacy lives on in the agricultural practices and
seasonal festivals that continue to be anintegral part of Filipino culture. The reverence
for the cycles of nature and thegratitude for the earth's bounty are things that
persist, reflecting the enduring impact ofMapullan's mythology. And now let's turn our

(12:52):
attention to one of the most uniqueand beloved figures in Philippine mythology. La
Kapati imagine a deity who embodied bothmasculine and feminine qualities. A symbol of
fertility, abundance, and inclusivity,Lakapati, often depicted as an androgenous or
transgendered figure, challenges traditional gender normsand highlights the rich diversity of pre colonial

(13:16):
Filipino beliefs. Let's dive into thestory of this nurturing and generous goddess who
plays a vital role in the prosperityof the land. Lakapati is one of
the most revered deities in the Gallantmythology, known for her generosity and nurturing
spirit. She is the goddess offertility, agriculture, and abundance, playing

(13:37):
a vital role in ensuring the prosperityand well being of the people. Lacapati
is often depicted as a beautiful andbenevolent tity embedding the fertility of the land
and the bounty of the harvest.What sets Lakapati apart is her depiction as
a transgender or intersects dity, reflectingthe acceptance and inclusivity of pre colonial Philippine

(13:58):
society. This Niq portray highlights herrole as a life giver and nurture,
embodying both male and female characteristics.In ancient times, Lahapati was widely regarded
as a great mother goddess. Peopleprayed to her for protection from hunger,
offering rice, herbs, and plants. During full moons. Statues and carb

(14:18):
figures of Lakapati were carried and worshipedas symbols of reverence. This fluidity in
gender representation reflects the absence of rigidgender binaries in the ancient Tagalog worldview.
Descriptions of Lahapati's physical form vary,portraying her in different ways. Some depict
Lahapati as a beauty for hermaphrodite possessingboth male and female characteristics. Others emphasize

(14:43):
a more feminine appearance, highlighting theconcept of embodying harmonious balance between genders.
Lagapati is often depicted with a serenecountenance and a nurturing demeanor, adorned with
symbols of abundance and fertility, suchas ears of rise or overflowing baskets of
crops. In the agrarian communities ofthe Philippines, Lahapati was a central figure

(15:07):
of worship. Farmers and families withoffer prayers and sacrifices to seek her blessings
for forty land, abundant crops,and healthy livestock. Her favor was essential
for ensuring a successful harvest and theoverall well being of the community. One
of the most important you tools dedicatedto Lakapati was Casilinawan, a festival held

(15:28):
to honor her and ask for herblessings. During this festival, offerings of
food, livestock, and other agriculturalproducts were made to ensure her continued favor
and to celebrate the abundance she provided. Laha Patti's influence extends beyond agriculture,
symbolizing the life giving forces of natureand the interconnectedness of all living things.
Her role as the goddess of fertilityunderscores the importance of nurturing and caring for

(15:54):
the earth, as well as thecycles of life and growth that sustain us
all. In modern times, thelegacy of Lahapati endures in the agricultural practices
and seasonal celebrations that remain integral toPhilippino culture. The reverence for the land
and the gratitude for its bounty reflectthe enduring impact of Lakapatist mythology on the

(16:15):
Philippino worldview. Lakapati also represents acelebration of diversity and acceptance, challenging traditional
gender norms and promoting inclusivity the LGBTQplus community in the Philippines Sassembly is Lahkapatis
image as a powerful symbol of genderdiversity and the fight for equal rights.
Lastly, we have Idinayale, thegoddess of labor and good deeds. Often

(16:38):
associated with hard work and kindness.Idinayalist influence encourage people to live virtuous lives
and contribute to the well being oftheir society. She represents the values of
diligence and morality that were deeply ingrainedin the culture. Idinaiyala is often depicted
as a hard working and nurturing figure, overseeing the efforts of people in their

(17:00):
daily task. She is the deityto whom people pray for strength and endurance
in their labor, whether infarming,crafting, or other forms of work.
Her influence ensures that all labor isfruitful and that people are rewarded for their
efforts. As the goddess of labor, Indiniana encourages not only physical work,
but also the pursuit of good deedsand virtuous living. She represents the moral

(17:25):
compass of society, guiding individuals tocontribute positively to their communities and uphold ethical
standards. In the daily lives ofthe early Filipinos, Idaniale was a central
figure of worship and reverence. Peoplewould offer prayers and sacrifices to seek her
blessings for success in their work andto ensure that their efforts were rewarded.

(17:47):
Festivals and rituals were often dedicated toher, particularly during times of planting and
harvest, to evoke her favor fora bountiful real. Indineali's influence extend beyond
labor, symbolizing the ethical and moralstandards that govern society in modern times.
In the Nialist legacy endures in thevalues and work ethics of the Filipino people.

(18:08):
The reverence for hardware, diligence andmoral integrity continues to be a cornerstone
of Filipino culture, reflecting the enduringimpact of a denialist mythology. As we
continue our exploration of Philippine mythology,id Nialisty's story reminds us of the vital
role of labor and virtue in shapingthe human experience. Her influence is a

(18:32):
testament to the belief that through hardwork and good deeds, individuals can contribute
to the greater good and achieve personalfulfillment. And thus are upon our exploration
of the first generation of gods andgoddesses in Philippine mythology. These theories,
with the rich stories and profound influence, offer us a glimpse into the spiritual

(18:55):
and cultural heritage of the Philippines.From the mighty Badhala to the nurturing La
Gatai, each god and goddess laysa unique role in the tapestry of Philippin
and folklore. I hope this journeyhad inspired you to deal deeper into the
midst and legends to shape our understandingof the world. Remember, mythology isn't
just about the past. It's alens through which we can view our own

(19:18):
lives and the world around us.If you have any thoughts or questions,
I'd love to hear from you,reach out to me on social media or
drop a comment on my podcast page. Don't forget to subscribe to The Little
Weird Podcast so you never miss anepisode, And if you like today's show,
please lever review and share it withyour friends. Your support helps me

(19:41):
bring more weird and wonderful stories toyou. Thanks for tuning in and until
next time, keep exploring the weirdand wonderful. Thanks for listening.
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