Nue (鵺)

Name Meaning

Overview

Nue (鵺) is the name of a legendary yokai composed of multiple animal parts and feared for bringing illness and nightmares.

• Nué = A mythical chimera-like creature

Origin

• Described in the famous epic Heike Monogatari.
• Said to have haunted the Emperor by flying overhead and inducing sickness and dread.
• Eventually shot down by the warrior Minamoto no Yorimasa.

Appearance

• Head of a monkey
• Body of a tanuki (raccoon dog)
• Limbs of a tiger
• Tail of a snake
• Voice said to be a horrifying bird-like cry

Behavior & Myths

• Causes nightmares and mysterious illnesses.
• Known to hide in dark clouds and fly at night.
• Considered an omen of calamity.

Symbolism

• Symbolizes fear of the unknown and uncontrollable forces.
• Associated with misfortune and political turmoil in ancient texts.
• Sometimes invoked in literature to portray chaos or monstrosity.