Pangasinan mythology

Pangasinan mythology centers around a group of deities, led by Ama-Gaolay, the supreme god responsible for creating mankind. The Pangasinan people, who once followed animistic beliefs, revered lesser spirits known as anito for various aspects of life. Rituals were conducted by priestesses called managanito. As time passed, Catholicism was introduced to Pangasinan by the Dominicans, resulting in the province becoming a stronghold of Catholicism in the Philippines.

Deities and Supernatural Beings:

In Pangasinan mythology, a pantheon of deities and supernatural beings shapes the spiritual beliefs of the community. Ama-Gaolay, the supreme deity and creator of mankind, oversees the universe from his aerial abode. His favored sons, Agueo (sun god) and Bulan (moon god), reside in fiery and dim palaces, respectively. Other deities, like Apolaqui and Anagaoely, represent war and idol worship, illustrating the diverse aspects of Pangasinan spirituality.

Worship of the Sun and Moon:

Asinpalan

The worship of Agueo and Bulan in Pangasinan mythology can be understood through cultural, practical, and symbolic lenses. The ancient Pangasinan people, heavily reliant on agriculture and salt making, revered Agueo for good harvests and Bulan for bountiful catches in the seas. This worship was a way to seek blessings for agricultural prosperity.

Guidance, Navigation, and Protection:

The Pangasinan people, known for seafaring activities, revered Agueo and Bulan for their guidance and protection during navigation. Bulan, associated with the moon, was particularly venerated as a safe guide in the darkness of the night, protecting travelers. Apolaki, the war god associated with the sun's rays, was believed to bring energy in battle. The presence of Agueo high in the sky was thought to ward off evil spirits.

Ancient Gods:

In the Pangasinan pantheon, Ama-Gaolay is the supreme deity and creator, Agueo is the silent sun god, Bulan is the playful moon god, Apolaqui is the war god, Saguday is a lesser deity of winds, and Mga diwata sa Tubig are water spirits. Sip-nget represents darkness and shadows, and Anito comprises lesser gods and spirits capable of inflicting pain or granting rewards.

Ama-Gaolay: the supreme deity; simply referred as Ama, the ruler of others, and the creator of mankind; sees everything through his aerial abode; father of Agueo and Bulan. Agueo: The silent and brooding sun god who is obedient to his father, Ama; lives in a palace of light. Lives in a palace made of gold Bulan: The merry and playful moon god, whose dim palace was the source of the perpetual light which became the stars; guides the ways of thieves. lives in a palace made of silver Apolaqui: a war god strong and roaring ;also called Apolaki, his name was later used to refer to the god of Christian converts. Saguday: lesser deity of the winds, called upon during hot days to blow soft winds Mga diwata sa Tubig Water spirits : lesser deities of the sea and water Sip-nget: lesser deity of the darkness and shadows Anito: lesser gods and spirits (divine and ancestral)who lurk everywhere; capable of inflicting pain and suffering, or of granting rewards

Folkloric Beings and Spirits:

Pangasinense beliefs include various folkloric beings and spirits. Tree deities like Bambanig and Pugot, a forest-dwelling demon named Baras, and supernatural entities Aniani, Bantay, and Pasatsat contribute to Pangasinan folklore. Pregnant women adhere to cultural practices, such as avoiding sleeping near windows, to prevent the theft of unborn children by evil spirits.

Kinalakihan - Kinalakihan is thought to be a group of skilled and beautiful warrior women from the land of Tawalisi in Kaylukari. These women are renowned for their prowess in both hand-to-hand combat and the use of the kampilan sword, showcasing strength and beauty in their martial abilities.

Bai Urduja - Princess Urduja:

Urduja, a mythical hero warrior princess in Pangasinan culture, is depicted as both beautiful and strong. She led an army of warrior women called Kinalakihan, embodying beauty, strength, and intelligence.

Urduja and Historical Debates:

The legendary warrior princess Urduja, mentioned in Ibn Battuta's travel accounts, has sparked debates among historians. While some place her in Pangasinan, others question her existence. The inclusion of Urduja in school textbooks and the presence of her statue at Hundred Islands National Park emphasize her cultural significance.

Myths Unveiled: The Sun, the Moon, and the Stars:

A prominent Pangasinan myth explores the origin of stars from a quarrel between Agueo and Bulan, resulting in celestial bodies known as Bituen, illuminating the night sky.

Legend of Hundred Islands:

The Pre-colonial legend of the hundren warriors in search for a magical pearl that brings bounty and good graces

The post-colonial legend of Hundred Islands narrates the heroic sacrifice of one hundred warriors, immortalized as islands symbolizing eternal vigilance over their homeland. Different versions of the story exist, one involving the quest for a mythical pearl and a battle of a hundred warriors.

Wedding Folklore:

Pangasinan weddings blend indigenous and Western traditions. Customs include pinning peso bills on the couple's attire during a dance, symbolizing a contest between families. Other practices, like throwing rice confetti and adopting Western wedding rituals, reflect evolving cultural influences.

Superstitions and Wedding Beliefs:

Pangasinan weddings are surrounded by superstitions, from avoiding sharp objects as gifts to predicting marital bliss based on the unity candle. Beliefs about the wedding candle, breaking items during the reception, and stepping on the groom's foot reveal a mix of cultural and supernatural elements.

Pangasinan mythology through deities, supernatural beings, and captivating myths, this ethnolinguistic group has woven a unique narrative that mirrors their historical experiences, values, and worldview. Exploring Pangasinan mythology offers a profound appreciation for the intricate tapestry shaping the identity of this vibrant community.Pangasinan mythology is only one of the many interwoven stories in Philippine mythology is a testament to the cultural richness and spiritual depth of the Pangasinense  and the Filipino people people. Through deities, supernatural beings, and captivating myths, this ethnolinguistic group has crafted a unique narrative that reflects their historical experiences, values, and worldview. As we unravel the layers of Pangasinan mythology, we gain a profound appreciation for the intricate tapestry that shapes the identity of this vibrant community.