Introduction:

The Philippines, a land of over seven thousand islands, is rich in oral traditions passed down through generations. Among these are captivating myths and legends that speak of gods, monsters, and the origins of the natural world. This article explores a tapestry woven from three threads of Philippine folklore: Bathala, the supreme deity; Bakunawa, the moon-eating serpent; and Mount Makiling, home to a powerful diwata (nature spirit). It is important to remember that these are traditional stories told by ancient Filipinos, reflecting their understanding of the world and its mysteries. We approach these narratives with respect for their cultural significance, recognizing them as products of human imagination and storytelling, not as literal truths or objects of worship.

Origins and Cultural Background:

Before the arrival of Islam and Christianity, the ancient Filipinos practiced a form of animism and polytheism. They believed in a pantheon of gods and spirits who resided in the natural world, influencing events and human lives. Bathala, often considered the supreme creator god, was believed to reside in the heavens and oversaw the other deities. The environment profoundly shaped their worldview. The sun, moon, stars, forests, rivers, and mountains were all imbued with spiritual significance. The cycle of life, death, and rebirth, as well as the unpredictability of nature, were often explained through myths and legends. Stories like those of Bakunawa and Mount Makiling served not only as entertainment but also as explanations for natural phenomena and as a means of transmitting cultural values and moral lessons. Society was organized primarily into barangays, independent communities with their own leaders and customs. Oral tradition was the primary means of preserving and transmitting knowledge, history, and beliefs. These stories helped bind communities together and reinforce shared cultural identity.

Character / Creature Description:

• Bathala: As the supreme deity, Bathala was often portrayed as a wise and benevolent figure, residing in the highest heavens. He was the creator and ruler of the universe, though his direct involvement in human affairs was sometimes limited, allowing other deities and spirits to play more active roles. Symbolically, Bathala represented order, creation, and the ultimate source of power.
• Bakunawa: This colossal sea serpent, often depicted with a massive mouth and sharp teeth, was said to be the cause of eclipses. According to legend, Bakunawa was captivated by the beauty of the moon and attempted to swallow it whole. Symbolically, Bakunawa represented chaos, destruction, and the unpredictable forces of nature. The fear of eclipses, which plunged the world into darkness, was embodied in this monstrous creature.
• Mount Makiling: This majestic mountain near Laguna is believed to be the home of Mariang Makiling, a powerful diwata (nature spirit or fairy). She is often described as a beautiful and benevolent woman who protects the mountain and its inhabitants. She is associated with fertility, healing, and the abundance of nature. Symbolically, Mariang Makiling represents the nurturing and protective aspects of the natural world. She embodies the respect and reverence that ancient Filipinos held for the environment.

Main Story / Narrative Retelling:

In the time before time, when the islands were young and the stars were newly lit, Bathala, the supreme god, watched over his creation. He had fashioned the world with care, filling it with lush forests, sparkling seas, and majestic mountains. Among the celestial bodies that graced the night sky were seven moons, each radiating a gentle light upon the earth.

But in the depths of the ocean, a great serpent stirred. This was Bakunawa, a creature of immense size and insatiable hunger. Bakunawa was captivated by the beauty of the moons, their silvery glow a mesmerizing sight in the dark abyss. Driven by an uncontrollable desire, Bakunawa began to rise from the depths, its massive jaws agape, intent on swallowing the moons one by one.

The people on Earth watched in terror as the moons disappeared from the sky, devoured by the monstrous serpent. Darkness descended upon the land, and fear gripped the hearts of all. They beat drums, clashed cymbals, and shouted loudly, hoping to scare away Bakunawa and force it to release the captured moons.

In the mountains, Mariang Makiling, guardian spirit of Mount Makiling, heard the cries of the people. She felt the pain of the earth as darkness threatened to engulf it. Though a spirit of nature, she held no power over the celestial realm, but she knew of the people’s fear and sorrow.

As Bakunawa swallowed the sixth moon, Bathala, witnessing the chaos and despair, intervened. He knew he could not destroy Bakunawa, for the serpent was a part of the natural order, representing the unpredictable forces of the world. Instead, he struck a bargain. For every moon Bakunawa swallowed, the people would make a terrible racket. If Bakunawa swallowed the last moon, the world would be plunged into eternal darkness. But if the noise and clamor were loud enough, Bakunawa would cough the moon back out.

And so, the people continued to beat their drums and clash their cymbals during eclipses, a desperate attempt to save the remaining moon. Mariang Makiling, from her mountain home, watched over them, her heart filled with hope that the light would return.

The story of Bakunawa and the moons became a timeless tale, a reminder of the constant struggle between light and darkness, order and chaos, and the enduring power of human resilience.

Symbolism and Meaning:

The myth of Bakunawa represents several aspects of ancient Filipino life and worldview. The serpent’s attempt to swallow the moons symbolizes the unpredictable forces of nature, such as eclipses, which were often seen as ominous events. The people’s efforts to scare away Bakunawa reflect their attempts to control or influence these forces through ritual and collective action. Mariang Makiling’s role highlights the importance of nature spirits in their belief system and the reverence they held for the environment. Bathala’s intervention signifies the ultimate power of the creator god in maintaining balance and order in the universe. The story as a whole can be interpreted as a metaphor for the struggle against adversity and the importance of community in overcoming challenges.

Modern Perspective:

Today, the myth of Bakunawa continues to be a part of Philippine culture, though it is no longer widely believed as a literal explanation for eclipses. It appears in literature, art, and film, often as a symbol of indigenous identity and cultural heritage. The story serves as inspiration for artists and writers, who reinterpret it in contemporary contexts. The figure of Mariang Makiling remains a popular subject in Philippine art and literature, often representing the beauty and power of nature. The legends associated with her are also explored in cultural studies, examining themes of gender, environmentalism, and cultural identity.

Conclusion:

The tale of Bathala, Bakunawa, and Mount Makiling is a testament to the rich storytelling tradition of the ancient Filipinos. It offers a glimpse into their worldview, their beliefs, and their understanding of the world around them. It is essential to remember that these are cultural stories, not beliefs to be practiced or worshipped. As Muslims, we recognize that only Allah is the true Creator and Sustainer of the universe. We appreciate these myths for their cultural and historical significance, recognizing them as expressions of human imagination and the desire to understand the mysteries of the world. They serve as reminders of our shared cultural heritage and the power of storytelling to preserve and transmit knowledge across generations. They are echoes of a time long past, resonating with the beauty, mystery, and enduring spirit of the Filipino people.