Kapre
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Kapre (also known as Agta in the Visayan dialect) is a Philippine mythical creature similar to that of the Bigfoot creature, but with more human characteristics. It is described as being a tall (7 to 9 ft), brown, hairy male with a beard. Kapres are normally described as smoking a big tobacco pipe, whose strong smell would attract human attention. The term kapre comes from the Arabic "kaffir" meaning a non-believer in Islam. The early Arabs and the Moors used it to refer to the non-Muslim Dravidians who were dark-skinned. The term was later brought to the Philippines by the Spanish who had previous contact with the Moors. Some historians speculate that the legend was propagated by the Spanish to prevent Filipinos from assisting any escaped African slaves.
[edit] Natural Habitat and Attire
Kapres are said to dwell in big trees like acacias, mangoes, bamboo and banyan (known in the Philippines as Balete). It is also mostly seen sitting under those trees. The Kapre is said to wear the indigenous Northern Philippine loincloth known as Bahag, and according to some, often wears a belt which gives the Kapre ability to be unseen by humans. In some versions, the kapre is supposed to hold a magical white stone, a little bit smaller than the size of quail egg, which if obtained, will grant wishes.
[edit] Behavior
Kapres are not considered to be evil, unlike the Manananggal. Kapres make contact with people to offer friendship or if attracted to a woman. If a Kapre befriends any human, especially because of a love interest, it will consistently follow them throughout life.
Kapre are also said to play pranks on people, frequently making travellers lost in the mountains or in woods. It is also said to confuse people of their own familiar surroundings; for instance someone who forgets that they are in their own garden or home are said to be tricked by Kapre. Reports of experiencing Kapre includes that of rustling tree branches although the wind is not strong, hearing the laughter of a big male voice, lots of smoke on top of a tree, big fiery eyes during night time on a tree, as well as Kapre seen walking in forested areas. It is also said that abundant fireflies in woody areas are the embers of the Kapre's tobacco.
