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A domovoi, also known as domovoy, domovik, or domovyk, is a creature from Slavic folklore. It is believed to be a household spirit or guardian that resides in a home and takes care of the well-being of the family that lives there. The word “domovoi” is derived from the Russian word “dom,” which means “house” or “home.”
The domovoi is typically portrayed as a small, bearded creature resembling an old man. It is often described as having a grayish complexion, sometimes with a tail or animal-like features. However, its appearance can vary in different accounts. Sometimes they even take up the appearance of current owners of the house and neighbors or family members get confused on seeing them at multiple places at once.
Domovoi are known to be protective and helpful towards the families they reside with, especially if they are treated well. They are believed to bring good fortune, protect the home from evil, and provide assistance with household chores. It is said that a domovoi can even become attached to a particular family and pass down its protection from generation to generation.
Earlier it was believed that every house has its own Domovoi. However, domovoi can also be mischievous or vengeful if they feel neglected or disrespected. They may cause disturbances or accidents within the household, particularly when their presence is disregarded or if the family engages in harmful actions.
To keep the domovoi content, offerings such as milk, bread, or salt were traditionally left out for them. Additionally, families would sometimes set aside a special corner or niche in the home where the domovoi could reside undisturbed. Putting clean white linen in its room would mean an invitation to join the family during dinner. They should also be referred to as master even by the head of the house toh show respect to them. The Domovoi maintains peace and order, and rewards a well-maintained household.
The domovoi from the neighbourhood homes was said to cause lot of mischief in the house by disturbing the horses in the stable and steal the food from the neighbours.
The belief in the domovoi and similar household spirits remains a part of Slavic folklore and cultural traditions, although their significance and practices surrounding them have evolved over time.
