Siyokoy
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Creature information | |
|---|---|
| Similar entities | Kataw, Merman |
| Origin | |
| Region | Philippines |
In Philippine mythology, a siyokoy (also shokoy, syokoy or siokoy) is an aquatic humanoid creature often described as having scales, webbed limbs, and fins. Most legends characterise siyokoy as hostile to humans, and they are said to drown individuals.
The term siyokoy came from the Hokkien shui gui.[1] In Chinese folklore, shui gui are the restless spirits of drowned people, who drag unsuspecting victims underwater and drown them in order to possess their bodies. Siukuy (Siyokoy = from Chinese Mandarin "shuǐguǐ" which means "water ghost") the anito of the rivers [Era el dios de los ríos de los tágalos antiguos].[2][3] In modern Tagalog folklore, siyokoy are sea monsters, an anthropoid whose body is covered in glistening brown or green fish scales and webbet feet; some description also give them long, green tentacles and gill slits; they drown fishermen and consume them for food.[4]
Defining characteristics
Compared to sirena and kataw that have more human features, siyokoys are animalistic in form and structure.[5]
The Syokoy is a creature from Filipino mythology that looks like a scary version of a merman. Unlike mermaids that have fish tails, the Syokoy has legs like a human, so it can move both in water and on land. Its body is usually shown as strong and green, covered in slimy scales to match its life underwater. It has a grotesque and creepy face with big, bulging eyes and sharp teeth, making it look like a predator. Its hands and feet are webbed, which helps it swim fast, and it might have gills on its neck to breathe underwater.[6] People believe the Syokoy lives deep in the ocean or lakes, and it’s known for being dangerous and strong, and is often seen as a symbol of the hidden threats in deep water.[5][6]
