Viy

Viy is a demonic figure from Slavic mythology, which appears to hold a high-ranking and revered (if enigmatic) position among denizens of the Underworld.

Description[]

In his physical form Viy has the appearance of a monstrous humanoid- tall, broad-shouldered and cross-legged. His body and face are said to be made of metal and thick tree roots. Viy’s most prominent feature is his extremely long eyelids and lashes, to which he owes his name (“viya” means “eyelash” in Ukrainian). Viy can’t lift the eyelids on his own, thus requiring the help of lesser demons and ghouls. Viy’s stare is said to possess lethal and generally malignant qualities, such as, for example, being capable of lifting protective charms and inflicting soul-crushing fear.

Overview[]

Viy’s origin and position in the infernal hierarchy is a mystery. The majority of sources seem to agree he didn’t take part in the War in Heaven and link him to pagan Slavic deities, such as Chernobog, who sometimes is credited to be Viy’s father. Sometimes Viy himself is said to be a long-forgotten deity, who, with Eastern Europe’s Christianization, degenerated into a demonic figure. Whether he has any connection to Balor is unknown.

When it comes to Viy’s rank among demons, there are suggestions he may be infernal equivalent of a shaman or exorcist. Being capable of battling “good” magic, lifting protective charms, casting curses and metaphysical adversities seem to support the theory. At any rate, members of the forces of darkness treat Viy with a combination of veneration and fear.