Folklore | Succubus & Incubus

 

A succubus is a supernatural creature or demoness in folklore that is often depicted as a seductive female entity. The term "succubus" is derived from the Latin word "succubare," which means "to lie beneath." The term "incubus" is derived from the Latin word "incubo," which means "to lie upon."

According to legend, succubi are said to visit sleeping men, often in their dreams, to engage in sexual activity and drain their life force or energy. In various mythologies and cultural traditions, succubi are believed to be demons or spirits who take on a female form to prey upon men, particularly those who are vulnerable or sexually frustrated. They are often described as beautiful, alluring women who possess extraordinary charm and appeal. Succubi are said to use their seductive powers to entice their victims into sexual encounters, causing them to experience intense pleasure while sapping their vitality.

The origins of succubi can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamian and Jewish folklore, where similar entities were described. However, succubi gained significant attention and prominence during the medieval era in European folklore and demonology. In this context, succubi were often associated with incubi, male demons who preyed upon women.

Legends surrounding succubi vary, but there are some common characteristics attributed to them. They are believed to be nocturnal creatures, appearing primarily during the night to pursue their victims. Some accounts describe them as shape-shifters who can assume different forms to suit their victim's desires. In addition to draining energy, succubi are often associated with causing nightmares, sleep paralysis, and other sleep disturbances.

Various methods have been suggested to ward off succubi throughout history. These include wearing protective amulets, hanging religious symbols or icons in the bedroom, or reciting prayers or incantations. In some traditions, holy water, salt, or iron objects are believed to repel succubi.

The concept of incubi and succubi, or similar entities, can be found in various cultures and civilizations that thrived in the Mesopotamian region. Mesopotamia was an ancient area in the eastern Mediterranean, encompassing modern-day Iraq, Kuwait, parts of Syria, and Turkey. Here are a few examples of cultures within Mesopotamia that had beliefs related to these creatures:

The Sumerians, one of the earliest civilizations in Mesopotamia, had a rich mythology that included various supernatural beings. Their beliefs included entities known as "Lilu" and "Lilitu," which were often associated with night demons and sexual encounters. These beings bore resemblances to later concepts of incubi and succubi.

The Akkadians and Babylonians, who succeeded the Sumerians, incorporated and expanded upon their mythological beliefs. They further developed the concept of Lilu/Lilitu and introduced additional entities like "Ardat Lili," a female demon associated with sexual encounters and seduction.

The Assyrians, an ancient Mesopotamian civilization known for their military prowess, also had beliefs in supernatural creatures. Similar to the Babylonians, they had legends of female demons called "Lilītu" or "Lilītum" associated with seduction and night terrors.

Shapeshifting female/male demons that prey on men/women can be found in various cultures and mythologies around the world, 

In Greek mythology, the Sirens were depicted as beautiful, seductive creatures, often portrayed as half-woman and half-bird. They would use their enchanting voices and alluring appearances to lure sailors to their deaths.

In Slavic folklore, there is a creature known as the "rusalka." Rusalki were believed to be the spirits of young women who died tragically, often by drowning. They would appear as beautiful women and lure men into bodies of water to drown them.

The Scandinavian folklore features entities called "Huldra" or "Seductive Forest Maidens." Huldra were believed to be beautiful women with long, flowing hair and cow tails hidden beneath their garments. They would entice men into the forest, leading them astray or even kidnapping them.

Native American Mythology: Various tribes have stories of female spirits or witches who take on seductive forms to lure men. For example, the Navajo have the "Yee Naaldlooshii," or "Skinwalker," which is a witch capable of shapeshifting into various forms, including seductive women.

These are just a few examples, and many other cultures and mythologies have similar entities or legends featuring seductive female demons or creatures that prey on men. The specific characteristics and names of these creatures can vary significantly across different cultures, regions, and time periods, but the underlying theme of seduction and danger remains consistent.