Almaz
The Almaz is a mythical beast considered to be an evil forest creature with magical powers residing in its hair that exists in Chechen, Ingush and Circassian folk beliefs. The male almaz is said to be hairy and hideous, and have an axe embedded in its chest, while the female is very beautiful with large breasts and golden hair, and has a favorite pastime of dancing naked at night under the moon. The almaz is said to have magical powers residing in its hair, but if the hair is removed or even grabbed, it may be rendered helpless.
When
- First attested
- 1200 CE
- Attested period
- 1200 – 2020
- Historical notes
- First written attestation by a Bavarian captive of the Mongols; may have arisen under Mongolian influence during the Mongol invasions or Golden Horde period.
Sources
Source passages
“The Almaz (Adyghe: Almesti, Chechen and Ingush: Almaz or Hun-sag; ), roughly translated as various "feral forest-man" or "stone spirit", is a mythical beast that is considered to be an evil forest creature with magical powers residing in its hair”
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