Samiksha Jaiswal (Editor)

Jenglot

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A jenglot [ˈdʒɛŋlɔt] is a deformed humanoid creature in Indonesian culture and mythology. It is described as looking much like a tiny, living human doll and is sometimes said to have formerly been a human being.

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Whereabouts

Jenglot is believed to be found in Indonesia, especially in Java. They are mostly found by native psychics after they have performed a supernatural ceremony. Jenglots are said to be found anywhere, from under the ground, on a wrecked house roof, and even in the trunk of a huge tree.

Feeding Jenglot

Jenglot 'keepers' feed their creature with blood, either animal blood (goat) or human blood. Those who feed the creature with human blood buy it legally from the Indonesian Red Cross. The jenglot is said to not drink the blood directly. The person places the jenglot near the blood, but the jenglot doesn't even move or touch the blood. It is said that the jenglot will get the nutrients of the blood in their own way. Some say it comes alive and consumes the blood when it is alone.

Exhibition

In Indonesia there has been several "exhibitions" of jenglot specimens found and showcased. Most being found on the islands of Java and Sumatra, and are held as private collections of supernatural researchers and fans. Many were found to be hoaxes, being masterful taxidermist fixings of monkeys and fish, however, not all specimens were examined, and the jenglot is an actively believed myth that many natives believe to be real. People who have caught the jenglot usually bring their creature all over Indonesia to exhibit them in order to gain some money.

In 2008, scientists in Malaysia examined hairs and DNA from four jengelots brought from Irian Jaya, Indonesia to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by a 'businessman' to be exhibited in a local museum. Each of the samples appeared to be from humans and DNA analysis showed it was likely from the same person. They even noted that "A few hairs from samples [...] also had an intact dried root at the other end of the cut tip, which indicated that the hairs were implanted upside down on the Jenglots’ heads".

Becoming a Jenglot

According to an Indonesian legend, Jenglot was an ascetic who wanted to learn the "Ilmu Bethara Karang" or the way to eternal life. It also said to be a hermit whose worship demons and gain a certain power and ability. They say if a person with great supernatural power meditates in a certain cave, they'll become jenglot.

References

Jenglot Wikipedia