Sigbin

Common card · No. 488153

The Sigbin or Sigben is a creature in Philippine mythology said to come out at night to suck the blood of victims from their shadows. It is said to walk backwards with its head lowered between its hind legs, and to have the ability to become invisible to other creatures, especially humans. It resembles a hornless goat, but has very large ears which it can clap like a pair of hands and a long, flexible tail that can be used as a whip. The sigbin is said to emit a nauseating odor. It is believed to issue forth from its lair during Holy Week, looking for children that it will kill for their hearts, which it fashions into amulets. According to the legend, there are families known as Sigbinan ("those who know") whose members possess the power to command these creatures, and are said to keep the sigbin in jars made of clay. The Aswang are said to keep them as pets. There is speculation that the legend may be based on sightings of an actual animal species that is rarely seen; based on the description...

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