The Div, or Dev, are a race of monsters who are referenced in Persian and later Islamic mythology. They are similar to the Nephilim, Fomorians, and Oni.
Description[]
They are described as having a body like that of a human, only of gigantic size, with two horns upon their heads and teeth like the tusks of a boar. Powerful, cruel and cold-hearted they have a particular relish for the taste of human flesh. Some use only primitive weapons, such as stones: others, more sophisticated, are equipped like warriors, wearing armour and using weapons of metal. Despite their uncouth appearance - and in addition to their great physical strength - many are also masters of sorcery, capable of overcoming their enemies by magic and afflicting them with nightmares.
It is usually necessary to overcome the div to get his aid. After defeating the div, one must attach a horseshoe, a needle or an iron ring on his body to enslave them. On the other hand, a div can not be killed by physical combat, even if their body parts are cut off. Instead, it is required to find the object storing the soul of the div. After the object is destroyed, the div is said to disappear in smoke or thin air. The notion of a demon tied to a physical object, later inspired the European genie.
History[]
Origins[]
Div are said to be related to the Nephilim, antediluvian giants who were offspring of angel and man. Their relationship is not fully explored but some believe that they were products of a Jinn and Gibborim, which may explain their large size and unnatural appearance and powers. They emerged some time after the Great Flood and were feared by the ancient Persians in the post-Flood world.
Throughout many legends they appear as villains, sorcerers, monsters, ogres or even helpers. The Div were particularly hostile towards the Grecians or people of ancient Greece which falls in line with the Persians being one of their greatest enemies. At one point, the Persians had sorcerers use the Div as a means to conquer the lands of ancient Greece. This of course would not stand for the Olympians and sent Heracles to deal with them where he encountered not just the Divs but also the Manticore, another beast from the lands of ancient Persia.
The divs are in constant battle with benevolent Peris (fairies). While the divs are usually perceived as male, the peris are often, but not necessarily, depicted as female. According to a story, a man saved a white snake from a black one. The snake later revealed that she was a peri, and the black snake a div, who attacked her. The divs in turn, frequently try to capture the peris and imprison them in cages.