Mayari is one of the many moon deities in Philippine mythology.The Philippines has multiple moon deities because of its diverse ethnolinguistic groups and rich pre-colonial unified belief systems.[Ramos, Maximo (1990). Philippine Myths, Legends, and Folktales. Ancient Cosmology – University of Oregon Lectures.]
In Kapampangan mythology, Mayari is the goddess of the moon and ruler of the world during nighttime.[Ramos, Maximo (1990). Philippine Myths, Legends, and Folktales. Ancient Cosmology – University of Oregon Lectures.]
In Kapampangan mythology
In Kampampangan mythology,
Bathala, the creator of the world, died without leaving a will. His children
Apolaki and
Mayari had a quarrel, for each wanted to rule the world alone. The two fought out the conflict with bamboo clubs (
Zabbors), back and forth they fought until at last
Apolaki struck
Mayari in the face and she became blind in one eye. When he saw his sister stricken,
Apolaki took pity on her and agreed to rule the earth together but at different times. However, her light is dimmer than her brother's due to the loss of her eye.
[Ramos, Maximo D. (1990). Philippine Myths, Legends, and Folktales. Phoenix Publishing House, Inc.; reprint 1998.]
In Sambal mythology
In
Sambal people, Malayari is chief god of the Sambals, who predominantly live in
Zambales. He is the creator of all things, and the omnipotent ruler over life and death. Malayari is a compassionate and loving god, sending rain, health, wealth and abundance to those who deserve it, but punishing those who ignore his commandments. ¶
See also
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Deities of Philippine mythology
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List of lunar deities
