Slavic Mythology

The Gods of Eastern Europe and Russia...

VODYANOI

Slavic God

Also known as Vodianoy, Vodnik, Vodyanoy

Picture of the Slavic God Vodyanoi from our Slavic mythology image library. Illustration by Chas Saunders.

Pond and Water Spirits who might get a bit predatory

Protective water deity. He guards the rivers from contamination. When a man or boy falls into a lake or pond and drowns, their spirit becomes a Vodyanoi. He’s green, bloated, scary and very unfriendly.

Unable to come to terms with his drowning, Vodyanoi takes it out on the rest of humanity. Don’t go swimming in his pond — he’ll grab your legs and pull you under to keep him company for the rest of eternity.

Dip a toe in the millpond when they are about and you could be splash and mash.

We are told by those in the know that Vodyanoi can be appeased taking your cap off as you pass his pond. Say hello in a cheery respectful voice. If you don’t have a cap, offer him a fish. If you don’t have a fish, you may be in trouble as he will tear your fishing net to pieces.

Your last resort is to offer him a knob of butter. Apparently he really likes that.

Vodyanoi Facts and Figures

Name: Vodyanoi
Pronunciation: Coming soon
Alternative names: Vodianoy, Vodnik, Vodyanoy

Gender: Male
Type: God
Celebration or Feast Day: Unknown at present

Role: Unknown at present

Good/Evil Rating: Unknown at present
Popularity index: 5663

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Article last revised on May 25, 2019 by Rowan Allen.
Editors: Peter J. Allen, Chas Saunders

References: Coming soon.

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