BEAN NIGHE Meaning and
Definition
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Bean nighe is a term originating from Scottish folklore, specifically from the Highlands and Islands. It refers to a supernatural being that is often described as a female spirit typically associated with water sources such as rivers, lochs, and streams. The name "bean nighe" translates to "washerwoman" in English, and it is believed that this entity appears as an old, haggard woman, usually wearing rags and having disheveled hair.
According to legend, the bean nighe can be encountered in isolated areas, particularly near bodies of water, where she can be found washing the blood-soaked clothing of individuals who are destined to perish soon. It is an omen of death to see her, for she is considered a harbinger of doom. It is believed that she possesses the ability to predict imminent deaths, and she acts as a messenger between the world of the living and the world of the dead.
In Scottish folklore, encountering a bean nighe is seen as a surreal and eerie experience, as her appearance is often accompanied by an otherworldly wailing or keening sounds. It is said that her cries can be heard from a distance, and they are hauntingly melancholic, symbolizing impending tragedy.
The myth of the bean nighe has been passed down through generations, and she is often regarded as a figure that carries great significance in Scottish supernatural lore. Though her origin and purpose remain mysterious, her association with death and water has captivated the imaginations of those who believe in the supernatural and adds to the rich tapestry of Scottish folklore.
Etymology of BEAN NIGHE
The word "bean nighe" is of Scottish Gaelic origin. "Bean" means woman, while "nighe" is derived from "nic righ" (pronounced nee ree), which translates to "daughter of the king". Therefore, "bean nighe" can be translated as "washerwoman" (bean) or "washerwoman of the king's daughter" (nighe) in English.
