Tapio
God of the Forest
Karelian / Finnish Mythology
Tapio is the God for the Forest, Nature, and Hunting. He governs over all the plants and animals that reside in the forest along with his wife Mielikki. Forests are one of the most prominent landscapes in Finland (besides lakes). As such, Finns have a deep respect for forests, holding them in sacred regard.
Hunters and gatherers pay respect to the Forest God by leaving offerings before they enter his domain. Groves within the forest were common places to leave offerings as well. These were regarded as sacred locations, serving as a boundary between the mortal and spirit realms. Spirits of the forest could reveal themselves to humans in these sacred groves.
Hunters leave offerings at “Tapion pöyta” (Tapio’s Table), a symbolic place where spirits and the deity can receive the gifts. These are often places of significance, such as the oldest or largest tree in the forest, clearings, or groves.
- Domain: Forests, nature, plants and animals
- Realm: Tapiola
- Symbol: Elk or bear
- Weapon/Relic: Pine or birch staff
- Spouse: Mielikki
- Children: Tellervo and Nyyrikki
- Worship: Leaving offerings for Tapio in clearings
- Offerings: Bread, grain, or coins
- Holidays: None
Appearance of Tapio
Tapio is an elderly man with a mossy beard and hair, sometimes leaning on a staff made of birch or pine. He is the personification of the forest itself. Furthermore, Tapio has the ability to meld into the forest itself, and only reveals himself to those who are worthy.
Tapio’s family also reveal themselves to worthy hunters or travelers. Nyyrikki is Tapio’s son, who is responsible for the pathways in Tapiola. Those he favors will see subtle clues to guide them through the forest or to the best game. Contrarily, those who violate the spirit of the forest may be led astray, in circles, or towards danger.
Significance of the Elk and Bear
The elk (hirvi) represents the most prized game in the forest. It symbolizes grace, eloquence, and the wild aspects of nature. In the Kalevala, Lemminkäinen is tasked by Louhi to slay the Hiisi Elk, and asks for Tapio’s favor.
The bear (karhu) is the most respected animal in the forest. Although it is also hunted, it represents the sheer power of nature. Otso, the great bear, is the king of the forest. When a hunter kills a bear, they honor Tapio and the spirits of the forest. Doing so ensures that they do not anger the spirit of the forest or the bear.
The Symbolism of Tapio in Finnish Culture
The forest is a sacred place for Finns. Covering most of the landscape, reverence for the forest and nature is an essential facet of Finnish culture. While Tapio is generally a benevolent deity, those who disrespect Tapiola will face his wrath.
This often comes about by denying hunters their game, causing travelers to become lost or sometimes more perilous encounters. On the contrary, those who leave offerings and gain Tapio and his family’s favor will be granted a bountiful hunt or safe passage through the forest.
While Nyyrikki guides hunters along the paths of Tapiola, Tellervo may lead them to the best game in the forest. This of course only occurs for those who leave the proper offerings or charms.