Obake

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Obake (お化け) are a type of yōkai or supernatural entity in Japanese folklore. The term "obake" is derived from the Japanese verb bakeru, meaning "to transform," and refers to a state of transformation or shape-shifting that these entities possess. Obake are considered to be a broad category of supernatural beings that can change their appearances, ranging from animals to human forms, inanimate objects, and even more abstract concepts.

Characteristics

Obake are known for their ability to metamorphose, reflecting the belief in the animistic spirit that resides in all things. This transformation is often triggered by various factors, such as the fulfillment of a certain condition, the influence of spiritual energy, or a desire for revenge. Unlike ghosts in Western folklore, which are typically bound to haunt specific locations or objects due to unresolved issues, obake can freely roam and interact with the living world.

Types of Obake

There are several types of obake, each with its unique characteristics and stories. Some of the most well-known include:

• Kitsune - Fox spirits known for their intelligence and magical abilities, including the power to shape-shift into human forms.
• Tanuki - Raccoon dog spirits famous for their mischievous nature and the ability to transform into various objects and beings.
• Tengu - Mountain and forest dwelling spirits, often depicted with human and bird-like features, known for their martial prowess and interaction with samurais.
• Tsukumogami - Tools that have acquired a spirit after existing for a hundred years, gaining the ability to animate and interact with the human world.

Cultural Significance

Obake play a significant role in Japanese culture, appearing in various forms of media, including literature, art, theater, and film. They are often subjects of folk tales, kabuki and Noh theater, and more recently, anime and manga, where they range from malevolent to benevolent beings. The stories of obake are not only entertaining but also serve as moral lessons, cautionary tales, or reflections on the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

Festivals and Celebrations

In Japan, obake are celebrated and remembered through various festivals and events, such as the Obon Festival, where it is believed that the spirits of ancestors return to the world of the living. During this time, people clean their ancestors' graves, light lanterns, and participate in dances to welcome and commemorate the spirits.

See Also

• Yōkai
• Japanese mythology
• Folklore of Japan