Buda (folklore)
Evil eye power enabling hyena transformation in Ethiopian folklore.
In Ethiopian and Eritrean folk belief, buda is a supernatural power that combines the evil eye with the ability to shape-shift into a hyena. This power is attributed to certain outsider groups, including the Beta Israel and metalworkers, and similar beliefs appear in Sudan, Tanzania, and among Morocco’s Berbers. Those said to possess buda are considered as dangerous as witches, with their ability linked to an evil spirit. The hyena transformation allows the bearer to attack others while hiding their human identity.
Quick Facts
- Region
- Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, Tanzania, Morocco
- Associated groups
- Beta Israel
- metalworkers
- ironworkers
- Protective amulet
- kitab
- Practitioner creating amulets
- debtera
Facts from the source article.
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