Wed
December 28, 2016
Tales of the Mystical Firebird
2,991
6

Firebire_feat1

Since ancient times, there has been much fascination with bird-like creatures because of their ability to fly and their freedom to go where mere mortals cannot, at least until the advent of modern technology. Their mystery and seasonal disappearances also add to their allure. It is no wonder then that the Firebird continues to be an enigma to many mythology and folklore enthusiasts. In fact, many are divided as to the actual nature of the Firebird. Some reference it interchangeably with the Phoenix whilst others maintain the Firebird as being distinct from the Phoenix. This article will focus more on the latter theory.

There are two recorded sources that refer to the Firebird as a mystical being of its own standing. One is from the records of Russian or Slavic folklore while the other is found in the narratives of Native American tribes. Of the two, more exposure is given to the Firebird of Russian/Slavic origin.

 

The Firebird in Russian/Slavic Mythology

Firebire_slav2

Artist’s impression of the mystical Firebird based on Slavic/Russian folklore

According to Russian or Slavic folklore, the Firebird is the bringer of either blessings or doom to those who encounter it. Records differ as to the appearance of the Firebird. It has been described as a very rare and beautiful bird whose plumage glows red, orange and yellow like the flames of a flickering fire. Some have described the Firebird as a gigantic and magnificent hawk whose wings appear to be made of flame whilst others say the Firebird is smaller than a peacock, with a crest, tail feathers and fiery glowing eyes. However, all tend to agree that the Firebird’s feathers continue to glow and shimmer with brilliant colour even when removed from its body. It is even said that one feather is brilliant enough to light a large room.

As tales of the Firebird were primarily told orally, quite a few versions abound but such stories usually follow the classical scheme of a fairy tale. The following are some of the more popular folktales relating to the mythical Firebird.

 

Prince Ivan, the Firebird, and the Grey Wolf

In this tale, the Firebird was a highly-desired prize to be captured more for its habit of stealing golden apples from a king’s garden rather than for its mythical properties i.e., its magical feathers were more of a bonus! Considering that the golden apples gave youth as well as strength to all who ate them, the king was naturally upset when he discovered the Firebird’s thieving ways and ordered his sons to capture the Firebird.

The youngest prince, Prince Ivan, decided to embark on a quest to bring the Firebird culprit to the king after his two elder brothers had failed to capture the elusive creature. Along the way, he met a mystical grey wolf which provided Prince Ivan with much support and helpful advice throughout the journey. Not only was the grey wolf instrumental in Prince Ivan’s success in tackling the numerous dangers and obstacles along the way, it was also responsible for bringing Prince Ivan back to life after he was brutally murdered by his two jealous elder brothers. They had intercepted him before he could present to the king his prize of the Firebird, his treasures accumulated from his heroic quest and his beautiful bride-to-be.

The grey wolf revived Prince Ivan in the nick of time, who went on to expose the heinous crimes of the other princes, ensuring that they were dealt proper punishments. Prince Ivan then rescued his bride and succeeded his father’s throne to the kingdom.

firebird_ivanwolf

A painting depicting the folktale of Prince Ivan, the Firebird, and the Grey Wolf

 

Prince Ivan and the Firebird

This is a variation of the aforementioned tale with a few differing elements.

The tale takes place in an enchanted garden that Prince Ivan stumbled upon during one of his hunting expeditions. Having caught sight of a mesmerising bird with dazzling plumage plucking a golden fruit from a silver tree, Prince Ivan utilised his hunting skills and successfully captured it. The Firebird pled for mercy and for its freedom and eventually convinced Prince Ivan to release it. In gratitude, the Firebird gave Prince Ivan a magic feather.

firebird_ivan3

Ivan Bilibin’s illustration of a Russian fairy tale about the Firebird, 1899

In the same enchanted garden, Prince Ivan subsequently encountered thirteen enchanted princesses who came to dance and play with the golden apples. Upon revealing himself to the princesses, Prince Ivan discovered that the princesses were actually prisoners of an evil sorcerer, Kastchei. They were usually locked in a nearby castle only to be released to the enchanted garden during a certain time of the day. The princesses also warned him that Kastchei would turn any captive travellers into stone and advised him to leave immediately before he was discovered. However, cupid’s arrow had struck swiftly and Prince Ivan had fallen head over heels in love with one of the princesses, prompting him to heroically vow to save all of them from the evil sorcerer.

Thus, Prince Ivan boldly stormed the castle by himself and faced off with Kastchei and his goons. Kastchei tried to cast his evil spells on Prince Ivan, but as luck would have it, the prince was protected by the Firebird’s feather. Prince Ivan’s victory was then secured when the Firebird appeared suddenly to lend him a hand by bewitching Kastchei’s goons with its wild dancing. The goons were distracted long enough for Prince Ivan to locate and destroy a magical egg that contained Kastchei’s soul, thus killing him. The story ends with the liberation of the princesses upon Kastchei’s death and a happily ever after for the prince.

 

The Legend of Maryushka

This tale relates the origins of the Firebird, and suggests that this mythical creature was a mortal soul who was an unfortunate victim of evil sorcery.

In essence, it revolves around a modest and gentle orphan girl named Maryushka, who lived in a small village. Maryushka had exceptional embroidery skills and, as she could work with virtually any material, weaving coloured beads and soft silks into exquisite garments, people would come from all over to buy her pieces. Despite her incredible skills, she was always content with the money she received, however small.

One after another, merchants tried to persuade Maryushka to come away with them, promising her riches and glory. But she would always reject these offers, indicating her wish to never leave the village where she was born. The story of her talents spread far and wide, until one day it reached the ear of an evil sorcerer named Kastchei the Immortal, who was enraged to learn that a mere mortal could produce finer work than he himself could.

It is said that he took on the form of a handsome youth and flew over the deep oceans, the tall mountains and the impassable forests until he came to Maryushka’s cottage. He tried to tempt her by offering to make her Queen if she would exclusively only produce garments for him. He was, of course, rejected due to her resolve to never leave her village. Kaschei was so furious at her answer that he turned her into a Firebird declaring, “Because you are so loath to leave your kindred, a bird you shall be, and no more a maiden fair.”

He then turned himself into a great black falcon and picked her up in his talons to steal her away from her village. In her resolve to never leave the village, she shed her brilliant plumage onto the land below as she was being snatched away. Feather after feather floated down on the meadow and forest. As the feathers fell, Maryushka’s strength ebbed. When the last of her feathers were shed, she died while still in the form of a Firebird in the black falcon’s talons. Her rainbow feathers continued to live on and their glow remained undimmed. However, they would only be visible to those who genuinely loved beauty and sought to create beauty for others.

 

The Firebird and Princess Vasilisa

In this tale, the Firebird plays a supporting role serving only as a prized possession. It starts off with a king’s archer who chanced upon the Firebird’s magnificent feather during one of his hunts. He was warned by his horse not to touch it, as bad things would happen. Blinded by greed, the archer ignored the advice and took it back to be presented to the king in hopes of high praise and rewards.

To his dismay, upon presenting the single feather to the king, instead of praise or rewards the king decreed for the archer to bring him the entire Firebird, failing which he would be put to death. Deeply remorseful, the archer wept to his horse. Taking pity on the archer, the horse taught the archer to put corn in the fields in order to lure and capture the Firebird. The Firebird fell for the trick and was captured by the archer who swiftly presented it to the king in order to avoid death.

The king spared the archer’s life only to issue another onerous task, where death again awaited in the event of failure. The archer was ordered to bring Princess Vasilisa, a renowned beauty with very high demands, to him so the king could marry her.

Left with no choice, the archer ventured to the kingdom of the princess, cunningly drugged her with wine and brought her back to the king. The king was pleased and rewarded the archer accordingly. The relief of the archer was short lived however, when the king summoned him once again to fulfil a seemingly impossible task set by Princess Vasilisa. The situation arose because when the princess awoke from her drunken stupor, she wept uncontrollably causing the king much distress. He said that he would agree to any of her demands as long as she would become his queen. The princess insisted that if she was to be married, she wanted her wedding dress which was kept under a rock in the middle of the Blue Sea. Once again, the archer lamented to his horse who gave him the correct solution and the archer successfully brought the dress to the princess.

However, the princess reneged on her word and stubbornly refused to marry the king. She further demanded that the archer be dipped in boiling water. Unfortunately for the archer, the king opted to sacrifice him to satisfy the princess. The archer begged to see his horse one last time before he was to be boiled and the horse cast a spell on the archer to protect him from the scalding water. As a result, not only did the archer survive the hot water dipping, he came out more handsome than anyone had ever seen. Upon seeing this, the king jumped into the boiling water as well but was instead boiled alive. The archer was then chosen to be king. He married the princess and they lived happily ever after.

Firebird_Ivanprincess

A painting depicting the tale of the Firebird and Princess Vasilisa

 

The Firebird in Native American Mythology

The Firebird is prominently featured in the folklore of the Indians of Puget Sound. With a name translated as “Pretty Bird” in English, it is portrayed as a magical, wise being with the ability to communicate in the human language. Pretty Bird is credited with bringing fire to the tribe.

firebird_NA4

Artist’s impression of the mystical Firebird from Native American folklore

The Firebird is said to have appeared to the tribe at a time when they had no fire. Fire was in existence then but for reasons unexplained, the ability to have or procure fire eluded this particular tribe. Hence, the Indians of Puget Sound had to suffer cold nights and eat raw meat.

One day, during one of the tribe’s communal gatherings to partake of food together, the Firebird appeared. It hovered over the heads of the people and flew in circles around them. When they asked what the Firebird’s intentions were, the Firebird explained that it originated from a beautiful country far away and came bearing the blessings of heat but with one catch – the people had to earn it.

The Firebird indicated that the blessing of fire could only be given to one who is kind. It then instructed the people to prepare some pitch pine before its return the next day, when it would bestow fire on the deserving person.

When the Firebird returned the next day, it explained that, “Whoever puts pitch pine on my tail shall get the fire to warm himself by, and cook his meals on, and will be a blessing to the Children of Puget Sound forever.” It then flew close to the ground and people started chasing it but no one was able to catch the Firebird.

Finally, the Firebird flew toward a lodge where a poor woman was taking care of a sick old man. The woman seized the opportunity and called out to the Firebird to request for the fire as she was unable to leave her home to pursue it. In response to the Firebird’s question as to what good she had done, the woman honestly replied that she didn’t see herself as having done any particular good as her time had mostly been used to care for her sick father and look after her little children.

Touched by her humility and kindness, the Firebird declared her to be a kind woman who did her duty, thus doing good and allowed her to take the fire from its tail. The woman hastened joyfully to fetch some wood, and when she laid it on the Firebird’s tail, flames blazed up. Then all the other women of the tribe brought wood and got fire from her, and ever after they were able to cook food and warm themselves. As for the Firebird, it flew away and they never saw it again.

Folklore describes the Firebird as being very impressive in terms of size and presence with shining feathers, bright eyes like jewels and a long, waving tail with tongues of flame giving out rays like the sun. Unfortunately, the records are not clear as to the exact origins of the Firebird.

 

The Firebird in Modern Times

Apart from diehard believers who continue searching for the elusive Firebird, the influence of such mystical creatures in this day and age is, by and large, limited to art and cultural aesthetic purposes. In essence, the Firebird serves as an inspiration to many fairy and folktales, literary works and works of art.

To name but a few;

  • Composer Igor Stravinsky achieved early success with a large-scale ballet score inspired by Russian Firebird folklore. He composed his career defining work under commission from Sergei Diaghilev and his Ballets Russes L’Oiseau de feu, with choreography by the noted Russian Michel Fokine. It premiered with great success at the Paris Opera on June 25, 1910. Stravinsky continued with the working formula of using Firebird folktales as the inspiration for his composition of Petrushka, which was also well received by audiences. These two ballets were instrumental in spreading the awareness of Russia’s rich folk culture beyond its borders.
  • There are many books and writings that make reference to the Firebird or the Phoenix, such as the record-breaking Harry Potter series.
  • The use of Firebird imagery in fantasy-themed video games are common if not prevalent.
  • Even Disney jumped onto the Firebird bandwagon. In fact, one of the most terrifying images ever produced by Disney was the depiction of the Firebird as a bird made entirely out of fire, lava and burning destruction in Fantasia 2000. A nature spirit’s curiosity caused her to stumble upon the Firebird in a volcanic crater. Disturbed from its slumber, the menacing Firebird terrorised the nature spirit. The climax of the scene is when the Firebird towers over the nature spirit in all its artistic glory, diving head on to the nature spirit hiding up a tree before vanishing without a trace in front of its terrified eyes.
firebird_fan5

Disney’s impression of the mystical Firebird in Fantasia 2000

 

Conclusion

Whether real or fictional, mythological creatures like the Firebird have captured and will continue to capture the imagination of many. There will inevitably also be cynics who dismiss it as a gimmick or myth. Regardless, examining such cryptic, bizarre and strange occurrences that surround our world serves not only to open up our perceptions but also trains us to be unbiased in our intake of information as there are just so many undiscovered and interesting phenomena out there to get us thinking.

 
Sources/References:

  1. https://books.google.com.my/books?id=dK3YGkTAph0C
  2. https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Page:The_Folk-Lore_Journal_Volume_4_1886.djvu/191
  3. https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Page:The_Folk-Lore_Journal_Volume_4_1886.djvu/192
  4. http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/The_Firebird_Suite
  5. Guterman, Norbert, tr. (1973). Russian Fairy Tales, 2d ed. New York: Pantheon Books
  6. Taruskin, Richard. (1996). Stravinsky and the Russian Traditions: A Biography of the Works through Mavra. 2 vols. Berkeley: University of California Press
  7. http://www.firebirdborzoi.com/firebird
  8. http://www.tradestonegallery.com/index.php?content=fairytaleview
  9. http://www.encyclopedia.com/literature-and-arts/classical-literature-mythology-and-folklore/folklore-and-mythology/firebird
  10. http://www.surlalunefairytales.com/firebird/index.html

 

Please support us so that we can continue to bring you more Dharma:

If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team


6 Comments

DISCLAIMER IN RELATION TO COMMENTS OR POSTS GIVEN BY THIRD PARTIES BELOW

Kindly note that the comments or posts given by third parties in the comment section below do not represent the views of the owner and/or host of this Blog, save for responses specifically given by the owner and/or host. All other comments or posts or any other opinions, discussions or views given below under the comment section do not represent our views and should not be regarded as such. We reserve the right to remove any comments/views which we may find offensive but due to the volume of such comments, the non removal and/or non detection of any such comments/views does not mean that we condone the same.

We do hope that the participants of any comments, posts, opinions, discussions or views below will act responsibly and do not engage nor make any statements which are defamatory in nature or which may incite and contempt or ridicule of any party,individual or their beliefs or to contravene any laws.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Maximum file size: 15MB each
Allowed file types: jpg, jpeg, gif, png

 

Maximum file size: 50MB
Allowed file type: mp4
Maximum file size: 15MB each
Allowed file types: pdf, docx

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. wan wai meng on Feb 2, 2017 at 3:35 am

    Being close to a mythical and powerful creature, there is no certainty of the outcome, it could be good or it could be bad. Partly from the stories we have heard it is also dependent on our motivation on what we hope to achieve by associating with such a being. In modern times, we could draw parallels to our association with beings who wield power and authority, what is the motivation behind us associating with such beings.

  2. Fong on Jan 25, 2017 at 11:52 pm

    The phoenix that I am more familiar with in folk lore is a bit different, it being more from the deserts of the middle east. The key point is that the phoenix will lay a single egg every century or so and roost on a palm tree. When the egg is about to hatch the bird will go up in flames and vanish for the new phoenix to take over. The other lore is that the phoenix will go up in flames and a new phoenix will arise from the ashes. I always loved the part about the phoenix arising from the ashes as, to me, it symbolizes a triumph over adversity and coming out renewed and stronger.

    The slavic versions are really interesting as it also gives power to the firebird. Here, the firebird aids the kind and righteous to triumph over evil.

    Maybe I’m just enamored with the mythical and the romantic but I would like to believe that it exists as so many cultures has a firebird in their legends/myths.

  3. Pastor Lim Han Nee on Jan 16, 2017 at 4:17 pm

    The Mystical Firebird, whether it be a mythical or mystical being, will continue to capture the imagination.It is good to keep our minds open to such a phenomenon which has yet to be thoroughly explored, and not to be cynical and dismiss it as pure fiction and myth.Meanwhile, the stories related here are just so fascinating and rich for a mind that is enchanted by the romantic and the mystical.

    The stories show us facets of the human mind, both good or evil, that are real.The mind of kindness and compassion, the mind of the gallant and brave who have a strong sense of duty, the mind of greed, the jealous mind, the mind with its great love for beauty. The stories do also have a moral undertone -evil will be vanquished in the end.

    Yes these colourful stories of the Mystical Firebird will continue to endure as the mystique of the Firebird in all its glory, will continue to fascinate us.

  4. CindyH on Jan 11, 2017 at 8:57 am

    Interesting to note that there is two opposite school of thoughts when it comes to firebirds, namely one equates it to the phoenix, for example, Chinese folklores, whilst another deems it a separate creature on its own, as per the focus of the article. Prior to this article, I had always referred to firebird and phoenix interchangeably, not being aware of the other extent of the firebird.

    It is also interesting to note that regardless of one’s belief in the existence of the firebird, each of the folklores highlighted above is infused life lessons or morality issues for contemplation. Such folktales are not only entertaining, they also seemingly exude moral messages.

    Thank you for the opportunity to be exposed to such interesting aspect and stories in relation to firebird.

  5. Stella Cheang on Jan 4, 2017 at 9:41 pm

    The firebird is a more common creature in the Chinese folklore as far as I can remember but the one firebird in the western mystical world that left an impression is Fawkes, who is more of a phoenix (than firebird). He is the intelligent phoenix who is Albus Dumbledore’s animal companion and defender. I do enjoy reading this article that depicts the different roles by the firebird in different cultures, and that the mystical creature enriched traditional story telling. Thank you for this article.

  6. Lew on Dec 31, 2016 at 5:50 pm

    Firebird is always very common or popular in Chinese tradition and they are called 凤凰 or 火鸟. They are frequently mentioned in Chinese fantasy stories or 武侠小说. Like other traditions, they are mystical beings and probably nobody has seen them before. I am always fascinated by this creature, may be like it is mentioned in the article that it has the freedom to travel from one place to another.

Total views today
2,836
Total views up to date
26,041,536

Tsem Tulku Rinpoche

My name is Tsem Rinpoche and I am a Buddhist monk and teacher. I have a wide range of interests just like anyone else. Ever since I was a young child growing up in America, I have had a huge interest in the paranormal. I have always loved this subject. I love all things magical and mysterious – Tibet, Bigfoot, Loch Ness, Findhorn, UFO, Nazca lines, Spirits, Salem, Easter Island, Dowsing, Greek Gods, Hindu Gods, Yogis, Himalayas, Shambala, Aura, Divinations, Delphic Oracles, Tibetan Oracles, Nature Spirits, Pan, Shamans and more.

  • Recent Posts

Recent Posts In

Aliens

Conspiracies

Creatures and Monsters

Etc

Ghosts and Hauntings

Magic and the Occult

Movies and Entertainment

Mythology and Mysteries

Natural Phenomenon

Science and Technology

Stories

Tsem Paranormal TV

UFOs

Videos

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

China builds world’s largest radio telescope to hunt for aliens

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 25, 2023

Dear friends around the world, It is interesting that China is looking for extraterrestrial communications. China is really catching up on all fields of interest. Take a read. Tsem...

Proof That We Are Not Alone?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 8, 2023

We have always wondered if we are the only beings in the whole universe. In fact, the Buddha has revealed 2600 years ago that there are other beings in...

Foreign Visitor in the Amazon!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2022

Alien enthusiasts are always eager to find the latest alien discovery or encounters. Over the years, hundreds of media releases turn out to be hoaxes… It’s difficult to figure...

Ancient Aliens – Season 1 to Season 3

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 25, 2021

Ancient Aliens is a series that launched their first episode on 20 April 2010. The series proposes various evidence around the theory that sometime within the existence of human civilization,...

Are angels ancient aliens??

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 25, 2021

Many of us believe in angels. 70% of Americans, believe in the existence of angels… 55% of Americans believe in guardian angels. It is said that every day, one...

Ancient Aliens: The Return

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 8, 2021

“The Return” is the last episode of Season 1 of the Ancient Aliens series. In the 20th century there was evidence that we were still being visited by alien...

Ancient Aliens: The Mission (episode 4)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 24, 2021

If we can make expeditions in search of resources to sustain our culture, wouldn't any other life form who needs resources to survive do the exact same thing by...

Ancient Aliens: The Evidence (Episode 2)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 8, 2021

Hard evidence is presented that makes the possibility of alien existence undeniably real - and yet some people would still rather not accept it. It may go against our...

Ancient Aliens: The Visitors (Episode 3)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 25, 2021

It is written in the Old Testament: 'The God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness". Who is "Us" and "Our"? In the Quran,...

Do Aliens exist?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2021

Mysteries about ancient aliens that brought civilization to earth, be it via direct manipulation of evolution or introduction of new technologies, have always amazed a large number of people....

Ancient Aliens: Closer Encounters

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 22, 2021

This episode of “Ancient Aliens – Closer Encounters” takes an interesting look at historical evidence of close encounters with Aliens and the changing references to them. The beginning of...

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

Who are the Freemasons?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2021

The Freemasons are known to be very secretive and according to some people, almost cult-like. Cult is a very subjective word of course. Although I do not know much....

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

Toyols: The Child-Spirits

by Pastor Shin Tan | Oct 8, 2023

Dear friends, Tales, myths and folklore are embroidered into the very fabric of society, especially in Southeast Asia. There is a wide spectrum of ghost myths in the region,...

Spectacular footage!!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2023

The video is wonderful and pretty clear. Not shaky at all. You must see!! Share with friends. Do you like this type of investigations as I do?? Let me...

Bigfoot Proven?? Must Watch!!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 8, 2023

American Paranormal is a one year old series on the National Geographic channel. They kicked-off their new series in 2010 with a documentary on Bigfoot!! This documentary uses thorough...

The Mysterious Monsters – narrated by Peter Graves

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2023

Dear Everyone, Another favorite video of mine narrated by Peter Graves. He does a good job as he seems convinced in what he is narrating. I wish I can...

You wanna be scared?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 25, 2022

I love the unknown, things that make you think, strange phenomenas, mysteries, mysterious creatures… and the likes. There is a category of animals known as cryptids, or “hidden” animals whose...

Guess what washed up in Langkawi, Malaysia

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 25, 2021

Dear Blog friends, No authorities or private organizations have informed the public what these remains could be… as you can see it has fascinated the many spectators… It fascinates...

The Lochness Monster of Alaska

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2021

One of my students sent me an email regarding the appearance of another sea monster. This time the sighting is in Alaska...

7 Lake Monsters…Exciting footage!!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 8, 2021

Dear friends who are into various mysteries around the world, The video above mentions 7 different lakes around the world which reportedly have sea creatures inhabiting them. Imagine looking...

10 Global Mysterious Events

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 8, 2020

Here are 10 mysterious events for you to ponder over during your day. It has everything from baby aliens, mysterious findings, unexplained deaths - the kind where the...

Bizarre Cryptids

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 25, 2020

Sometimes, we’re thrown into bizarre situations which totally pushes us off the path of regularity. Would you run and hide… or would you open your mind, seize that rare...

The Gnomes of Argentina

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2020

The article below is from the British Tabloid, The Sun. Since it was published 3 years ago, it has everyone talking about gnomes… especially in Argentina where the video...

20 Unbelievable General Facts

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 25, 2020

Below are 20 of the most unbelievable facts. Some of them seem possible, some will make you think twice and some will not convince you at all! Do take...

10 Global Mysterious Events

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 8, 2020

Here are 10 mysterious events for you to ponder over during your day. It has everything from baby aliens, mysterious findings, unexplained deaths - the kind where the...

Sleep Paralysis – Medical or Paranormal?

by Admin | Mar 8, 2024

Sleep paralysis or more commonly known in Chinese as ‘鬼压床’ is one of the most common paranormal encounters. Hence, most people would have experienced some form of sleep paralysis...

Kuchisake Onna

by Admin | Feb 23, 2024

Dear friends, From a young age, I have always been intrigued by Kuchisake Onna, the Slit-Mouthed Woman from Japanese folklore. Originally I didn’t know her name or that she...

Black Eyed Child

by Admin | Jan 25, 2024

Dear friends, Black Eyed Children or Black Eyed Kids (BEKs) is another group of paranormal entities triggered my interest and prompted me to find out more since I learned...

Valak – The Conjuring 2 Demon?

by Admin | Jan 8, 2024

Dear friends, Recently, there has been a huge craze about a horror movie called The Conjuring 2. Yes! I am a self-professed horror junkie although I am also really...

Paranormal Protection

by Pastor David Lai | Nov 8, 2023

Dear everyone, I have chosen to write about this topic for Rinpoche’s blog because it fascinates me and it is something that many people are drawn to. Generally, people are...

Boo! Why Do We Love The Things That Scare Us?

by Shakila Rajendra | Oct 25, 2023

Despite their keeping us up at night, we all love a good ghost story. We are constantly fascinated by tales of ghouls, demonic possessions and those spirits that cannot...

Zozo – The Ouija Board Demon

by Admin | Sep 24, 2023

I was hesitant to have Ms. Vinnie Tan write up this article as I do not encourage anyone to contact negative beings especially with a Ouija board. Negative beings...

Questions on Ghosts

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 8, 2023

(By Tsem Rinpoche)   I posted regarding ‘psychic kids’ and Patricia posed some interesting questions which I have answered. With respect to Patricia, I am posting it here as...

10 Paranormal Pictures!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 24, 2023

  Some pictures I thought you might enjoy and do you think they are genuine. The paranormal beings do exist, but can they be captured on film? What do...

Inhuman Entity caught on film

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 25, 2023

See this episode. It is very good. Very interesting! Look at 5:01 and see an inhuman entity caught on film. Very interesting how these beings can be caught on...

Thursday Paranormal Tales

by Admin | Nov 30, 2022

Many people like myself, are curious about paranormal experiences. It is a whole new world that most of us have yet to completely explore and understand. Some people have...

A case of “Karma” and “Possession”

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2022

What karma awaits you if you harm another living being? For this man he immediately saw the karmic effects when he killed and ate a snake. The video title...

10 Creepy Mysteries You Haven’t Heard Of

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 25, 2020

Mysteries are always interesting to read about. Not only does it make our day a little less mundane, but it also help us to open our mind and contemplate...

The Burning Times

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2020

The 6-part film below is called “The Burning Times”. It explains what went on during the period from 1450 to 1700. That period of time in history is actually...

Witches

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 25, 2019

Below are videos that I have found on witches. They are very very good and very informative… interesting and you would enjoy watching. Also learn a lot about bias,...

Malaysian Ghosts: Orang Minyak

by Cindy Hew | May 12, 2018

Of the many types of Malaysian ghost, one of the most perplexing is the Orang Minyak, literally translated as ‘Oily Man’. However, the exact nature of the Orang Minyak...

The Power of Sak Yant

by Phng Li Kim | Dec 19, 2017

For this episode, I flew to Bangkok to discover the mystery behind the Sak Yant (spiritual tattoo). My mission was to learn more about the purpose of the sak...

Mystical Magic and Medical Science

by Phng Li Kim | Aug 28, 2017

In Yogyakarta, I visited Hospital Nur Hidayah where not too long ago, a young woman caused quite a stir. When the woman in question, Supiyati, arrived at the hospital,...

Valak – The Conjuring 2 Demon?

by Admin | Jan 8, 2024

Dear friends, Recently, there has been a huge craze about a horror movie called The Conjuring 2. Yes! I am a self-professed horror junkie although I am also really...

Must Watch: The Paranormal Zone on NTV7

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 8, 2023

The Paranormal Zone official launch!! Congrats to Celebrity Host Ms. Li Kim!!   Last night, The Paranormal Zone had their official launch party! It was an invitation-only event, held at...

The Mysterious Monsters – narrated by Peter Graves

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2023

Dear Everyone, Another favorite video of mine narrated by Peter Graves. He does a good job as he seems convinced in what he is narrating. I wish I can...

Psychic Kids (4)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2019

Another episode of Psychic Kids I thought my friends would enjoy. Notice how the senior psychics train up the younger ones. Reminds me of the Monastery where senior monks...

Celebrity Ghost Stories (7)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2019

Here’s another wonderful selection of supernatural encounters by celebrities. I find these neat as they show that people from all walks of life have experiences. Have a watch, learn...

Celebrities Ghost Stories (4) and Psychic Kids (2)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2019

Another dosage of great accounts of the supernatural that gives you a break and also helps you to ponder deeper on mysteries not visible to everyone yet exists. DO...

Celebrities Ghost Stories 2 & 3

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 26, 2018

Hello, This is your latest dose of Celebrity Ghosts. I hope you enjoy. Tsem Rinpoche   Part 2   Part 3   Note: All articles published on the blog...

Kuchisake Onna

by Admin | Feb 23, 2024

Dear friends, From a young age, I have always been intrigued by Kuchisake Onna, the Slit-Mouthed Woman from Japanese folklore. Originally I didn’t know her name or that she...

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

Reincarnation Videos YOU MUST WATCH!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2023

Nov 28, 2012 (By Tsem Rinpoche) Dear friends, I wanted to share this videos with you for the longest time and happy I can do so now. Learn, ponder...

Can you believe in this?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2023

I have always had an interest in mythology and folklore... about mysterious occurrences or beings that were described in books, or from stories shared by our family and friends...

Atlantis: The Richat Structure

by Wei Tan | Nov 30, 2021

Could the legendary Atlantis be real? These videos suggest that it can be located with relative ease in the modern day. The main sources of evidence draws from Plato’s...

Are angels ancient aliens??

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 25, 2021

Many of us believe in angels. 70% of Americans, believe in the existence of angels… 55% of Americans believe in guardian angels. It is said that every day, one...

Ancient Aliens: The Return

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 8, 2021

“The Return” is the last episode of Season 1 of the Ancient Aliens series. In the 20th century there was evidence that we were still being visited by alien...

Ancient Aliens: The Mission (episode 4)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 24, 2021

If we can make expeditions in search of resources to sustain our culture, wouldn't any other life form who needs resources to survive do the exact same thing by...

Ancient Aliens: The Evidence (Episode 2)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 8, 2021

Hard evidence is presented that makes the possibility of alien existence undeniably real - and yet some people would still rather not accept it. It may go against our...

Ancient Aliens: The Visitors (Episode 3)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 25, 2021

It is written in the Old Testament: 'The God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness". Who is "Us" and "Our"? In the Quran,...

Do Aliens exist?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2021

Mysteries about ancient aliens that brought civilization to earth, be it via direct manipulation of evolution or introduction of new technologies, have always amazed a large number of people....

Ancient Aliens: Closer Encounters

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 22, 2021

This episode of “Ancient Aliens – Closer Encounters” takes an interesting look at historical evidence of close encounters with Aliens and the changing references to them. The beginning of...

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

Reincarnation Videos YOU MUST WATCH!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2023

Nov 28, 2012 (By Tsem Rinpoche) Dear friends, I wanted to share this videos with you for the longest time and happy I can do so now. Learn, ponder...

Thursday Paranormal Tales

by Admin | Nov 30, 2022

Many people like myself, are curious about paranormal experiences. It is a whole new world that most of us have yet to completely explore and understand. Some people have...

Nazca Lines – Another Sign of Paranormal Activity?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 8, 2021

Have you ever wondered how the Nazca Lines are made? Are they man made or is there something else behind its creation that we might not know of...

Atlantis: The Richat Structure

by Wei Tan | Nov 30, 2021

Could the legendary Atlantis be real? These videos suggest that it can be located with relative ease in the modern day. The main sources of evidence draws from Plato’s...

SUPERMOON

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2021

On March 19th… You may be surprised by what you will see or have seen… For the first time in 18 years, the moon will swing around Earth very...

Just What Are Sailing Stones?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 24, 2020

Look at these pictures and let your imagination try to figure out how this came to pass. Stones in the middle of nowhere that leave trails behind them, yet...

Psychic Kids (4)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2019

Another episode of Psychic Kids I thought my friends would enjoy. Notice how the senior psychics train up the younger ones. Reminds me of the Monastery where senior monks...

Kid Painter is Mini Monet

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 8, 2019

Kid geniuses are people who were good in something in another life and they from a young age without or with very little training can do something beyond your belief system...

Celebrities Ghost Stories (4) and Psychic Kids (2)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2019

Another dosage of great accounts of the supernatural that gives you a break and also helps you to ponder deeper on mysteries not visible to everyone yet exists. DO...

The Mysterious Bermuda Triangle

by Cindy Hew | Jul 17, 2017

Mind boggling disappearances of ships and aircrafts – this is what immediately comes to mind at the mere mention of the Bermuda Triangle. Its reputation is so notorious that...

Sleep Paralysis – Medical or Paranormal?

by Admin | Mar 8, 2024

Sleep paralysis or more commonly known in Chinese as ‘鬼压床’ is one of the most common paranormal encounters. Hence, most people would have experienced some form of sleep paralysis...

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

China builds world’s largest radio telescope to hunt for aliens

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 25, 2023

Dear friends around the world, It is interesting that China is looking for extraterrestrial communications. China is really catching up on all fields of interest. Take a read. Tsem...

Einstein on Buddhism

by Tsem Rinpoche | Sep 8, 2023

Dear friends around the world, I came across this interesting article recently and thought that it’d be nice to share it on my blog. People would often pick science...

Initial DNA analysis of Paracas elongated skull released

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 25, 2023

Initial DNA analysis of Paracas elongated skull released – with incredible results 5 February, 2014 – 13:47 by April Holloway Paracas is a desert peninsula located within the Pisco...

Guess what was found!!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Nov 8, 2022

I have interests in many subjects. I just don’t have enough time in the day to get deeper into many of the subjects that captures my mind. One of...

Top 10 Space Mysteries

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2020

In something as big as the universe, there are bound to be unexplainable phenomena... and things we truly can’t grasp. The universe shows us how small we really are...

Resurrecting Mammoths

by Tsem Rinpoche | Nov 24, 2019

Researchers aim to resurrect mammoth in five years By Agence France-Presse | Updated: 1/17/2011 Japanese researchers will launch a project this year to resurrect the long-extinct mammoth by using...

A Planet discovered that could have life…..

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 8, 2019

Imagine there are 40 BILLION planets out there that can support life in our universe… Wow… There has to be other life forms. The mathematical chances is beyond doubt...

Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking – Time Travel

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 25, 2019

Watch enlightening documentaries online! Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking – Time Travel (2010).The promise of time travel has long been one of the worlds favorite scientific what-ifs? Hawking...

Into the Universe With Stephen Hawking – The Story Of Everything

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 8, 2019

Watch enlightening documentaries online! Into the Universe With Stephen Hawking – The Story Of Everything (2010) In two mind-blowing hours, Hawking reveals the wonders of the cosmos to a...

Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking – Aliens (1 of 5)

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 24, 2019

Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking – Aliens (2010) – Stephen Hawking hosts an epic new kind of cosmology series, a Planet Earth of the heavens. It takes the...

Paranormal Experiences Occur Everywhere – Part 2!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 8, 2022

In the late 80’s, I was a university student in Essex, England. I was living in a student hostel at the university ground. The hostel was a high-rise building...

Paranormal Experiences Occur Everywhere – Part 1!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Sep 8, 2022

I like Steven Wong's stories very much as it shows that spirits and unseen beings are actually not restricted to specific areas like cemeteries or abandoned houses. Instead, they...

Bukit Antarabangsa Hauntings

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 25, 2022

Remember the Bukit Antarabangsa Landslide in 2008? What about the Highland Towers apartment building which collapsed in 1993? I am sure that you know many died during those two...

The Shadow On My Bed

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 8, 2022

More and more people are sharing their paranormal experiences with us, and I thank Mr. Michael Moore for sharing with us a very kind and sincere story... can you...

A Relieving Experience

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 24, 2022

Some people encounter with spirits directly and have disturbing experiences with the unseen whilst there are others who experience it very differently, where they feel that the incident has...

A swirl at the foot of my bed

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 24, 2022

  Perhaps Paranormal: Two night ago in the middle of the night in my hotel room, I woke up and noticed a dark swirling ‘entity’ that was not exactly...

The Lady in Red

by Admin | Sep 8, 2021

The two men disappeared into the woods and came out on the other side. They walked very fast without saying a word to one another. Finally, they stopped at...

The Headless Nun: A Canadian Ghost Story

by Guest | May 6, 2019

In the mid 1700s, The French Fort Cove, the place of the happenings concerning our tale, was a military fortification on the banks of the Miramichi River, between what...

Jean Ai

by Tsem Rinpoche | Dec 8, 2022

Thailand is known for their terrifying horror movies and you know what people say...where there is smoke, there is fire so when Jean Ai went to Bangkok to work...

Thursday Paranormal Tales

by Admin | Nov 30, 2022

Many people like myself, are curious about paranormal experiences. It is a whole new world that most of us have yet to completely explore and understand. Some people have...

JP Revisited

by Tsem Rinpoche | Nov 24, 2022

Whilst the Chinese have practised ancestral worship for centuries, for most people a visit to the graves of their forefathers stops there. A few offerings and some flowers, and...

David Lai

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 25, 2022

Quiet and unassuming, on first appearance David Lai does not come across as a person who has paranormal experiences. As they say however, looks can be deceiving...

JP

by Tsem Rinpoche | Sep 24, 2022

Facing college life in a new city, JP Thong had no idea what awaited him when he moved thousands of miles away from home to New York, where he...

Till I See Blood

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2022

After sleepless nights in Bangkok, Angel finally fell asleep, only to find herself struggling for her breath as she was rudely awakened by an unseen stranger. Feeling pressed down...

CJ

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 25, 2022

Many of us have heard that some people have the ability to see the dead and many of us have heard of the movie 'The Sixth Sense'. For 16...

Edward

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 25, 2022

There are many children around the world who tell their parents that they see dark figures. Most of the time, their parents would brush them off and tell them...

Snake Spirit

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 8, 2022

This week, I share with you a story that relates to the time when I was residing in southern Thailand. I stayed there for about a month to do...

Burmese Temple & Floating Heads

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 8, 2022

In this episode, we have exclusive rights to film at one of the most exotic locations in Malaysia at night: The Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple. Founded on 1st August...

Red Face

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 22, 2022

This week, I share with all of you 2 paranormal stories. The first relates to the filming location: Shih Chung Branch School. Around 1885, the very first 5-storey bungalow in Penang...

Banging Pots

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 8, 2022

It was quite a busy period, thinking back to 15 years in Singapore, as a lot of people would come to see me for discussions… usually, these were relating...

Legends of Mount Shasta

by Pastor David Lai | Feb 8, 2024

In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade...

They are Everywhere

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 25, 2022

Whether we believe in aliens or not, it is undeniable that the thought of other beings existing in places unknown to mankind yet is interesting...

Foreign Visitor in the Amazon!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2022

Alien enthusiasts are always eager to find the latest alien discovery or encounters. Over the years, hundreds of media releases turn out to be hoaxes… It’s difficult to figure...

Spotted in a Sandstorm

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 25, 2021

I received an interesting email from Philip Yong, which shows some live CNN footage of a sandstorm also known as a “Haboob”. What’s interesting to note about this live...

A HUGE Collection of UFO Photographs from 1870 to 2011

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 24, 2021

  I was sent an email with a link to one of the most interesting websites on UFOs: UFOCasebook.com! This website contains A LOT of information in the form...

Top 10 Space Mysteries

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2020

In something as big as the universe, there are bound to be unexplainable phenomena... and things we truly can’t grasp. The universe shows us how small we really are...

Astronauts & Military Men Speak

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 8, 2020

There are 2 videos below that are of UFOs. These are probably 2 of the most convincing videos on UFOs so far. This is mostly because the presenters are...

They’re Sighted Everywhere

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2020

This YouTube video was forwarded to me by Shirley Tan. It is of a UFO sighting on the 18th of January in Moscow, Russia. The video was taken from...

Second UFO sighting baffles China & Malaysia

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 24, 2019

Another unidentified flying object (UFO) has been spotted hovering over a part in southwestern China’s Chongqing province after a similar sighting last week caused massive flight delays at a...

More UFO videos from China!!! Very convincing!!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 22, 2019

You have to watch these neat videos. They are very convincing. I copy and pasted the information below just so you have more to go on and understand. Enjoy...

Unsolved Mysteries – UFO’s & Me…

by Tsem Rinpoche | Sep 14, 2018

Since I was very young, I was naturally drawn to phenomena that was not accepted by ‘mainstream’ public. That didn’t bother me. I was always the type of person...

Flatwoods Monster: Close Encounter of the Third Kind?

by Cindy Hew | Nov 25, 2017

If you were in Flatwoods in Braxton Country, West Virginia around September 1952, chances are you would have been caught up in the hype surrounding the first sighting of...

Reincarnation Videos YOU MUST WATCH!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Aug 8, 2023

Nov 28, 2012 (By Tsem Rinpoche) Dear friends, I wanted to share this videos with you for the longest time and happy I can do so now. Learn, ponder...

Pastor Chia on Wah Lai Toi!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Apr 24, 2023

Pastor Chia, a long time student of mine appeared on TV recently. He was interviewed by a Paranormal Program on Astro Wah Lai Toi. It is so exciting to...

Inhuman Entity caught on film

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 25, 2023

See this episode. It is very good. Very interesting! Look at 5:01 and see an inhuman entity caught on film. Very interesting how these beings can be caught on...

Bigfoot Proven?? Must Watch!!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Feb 8, 2023

American Paranormal is a one year old series on the National Geographic channel. They kicked-off their new series in 2010 with a documentary on Bigfoot!! This documentary uses thorough...

The Mysterious Monsters – narrated by Peter Graves

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jan 25, 2023

Dear Everyone, Another favorite video of mine narrated by Peter Graves. He does a good job as he seems convinced in what he is narrating. I wish I can...

Thursday Paranormal Tales

by Admin | Nov 30, 2022

Many people like myself, are curious about paranormal experiences. It is a whole new world that most of us have yet to completely explore and understand. Some people have...

Foreign Visitor in the Amazon!!

by Tsem Rinpoche | Mar 8, 2022

Alien enthusiasts are always eager to find the latest alien discovery or encounters. Over the years, hundreds of media releases turn out to be hoaxes… It’s difficult to figure...

Ancient Aliens – Season 1 to Season 3

by Tsem Rinpoche | Oct 25, 2021

Ancient Aliens is a series that launched their first episode on 20 April 2010. The series proposes various evidence around the theory that sometime within the existence of human civilization,...

League of Gentlemen visit ‘haunted’ Gloucestershire pub

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jul 8, 2021

Below is an article that my student, Shirley Tan, sent me. It is about a popular group of British comedians who decided to brave potential scares in a haunted...

Who are the Freemasons?

by Tsem Rinpoche | Jun 8, 2021

The Freemasons are known to be very secretive and according to some people, almost cult-like. Cult is a very subjective word of course. Although I do not know much....

Are angels ancient aliens??

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 25, 2021

Many of us believe in angels. 70% of Americans, believe in the existence of angels… 55% of Americans believe in guardian angels. It is said that every day, one...

Ancient Aliens: The Return

by Tsem Rinpoche | May 8, 2021

“The Return” is the last episode of Season 1 of the Ancient Aliens series. In the 20th century there was evidence that we were still being visited by alien...

Archives

Live Visitors Counter