Anito is a term that is commonly used in Philippine culture. It refers to the spirits or deities that are believed to inhabit the natural world. These spirits are often associated with trees, rocks, rivers, and other natural elements. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of anito, as well as its origins, associations, and synonyms.
Definitions
Anito is a Tagalog word that refers to the spirits or deities that are believed to inhabit the natural world. These spirits are often associated with trees, rocks, rivers, and other natural elements. They are considered to be powerful and influential, and are often worshipped and revered by the people who believe in them.
Origin
The origins of anito can be traced back to pre-colonial Philippine society. Before the arrival of the Spanish, the people of the Philippines had their own unique religious beliefs and practices. These beliefs were based on animism, which is the belief that everything in nature has a spirit or soul.
The concept of anito was central to this animistic belief system. The people of the Philippines believed that anito inhabited the natural world and had the power to influence the lives of humans. They worshipped these spirits and offered them sacrifices in order to gain their favor and protection.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of anito varies depending on the dictionary or reference source. In the Tagalog-English Dictionary, anito is defined as “a spirit or deity, especially one that inhabits the natural world.” In the Oxford English Dictionary, anito is defined as “a spirit or deity in Philippine mythology.”
Associations
Anito is often associated with nature and the natural world. The spirits are believed to inhabit trees, rocks, rivers, and other natural elements. They are also associated with fertility, prosperity, and protection. Many Filipinos still believe in anito today and offer them sacrifices and prayers for good luck and protection.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for anito, including diwata, engkanto, and kapre. These terms are all used to refer to the spirits or deities that are believed to inhabit the natural world in Philippine mythology.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for anito, as it is a specific term that refers to a particular type of spirit or deity in Philippine mythology.
The same root words
Anito is derived from the Tagalog word “anit,” which means “carved figure.” This word is related to the practice of carving wooden figures that were believed to represent the spirits or deities that inhabited the natural world.
Example Sentences
- Many Filipinos still believe in anito and offer them sacrifices and prayers for good luck and protection.
- The anito that inhabited the tree was believed to have the power to bring fertility and prosperity to the surrounding area.
- The practice of carving anito figures was an important part of pre-colonial Philippine culture.