Dalagang Nasa Buwan

 Kulalaying also known as Buan, Bwan or Dalagang nasa bwan is a Tagalog goddess of the Moon

Kulalaying or Dalagang nasa Buwan, also known as the Goddess of the Moon, holds a significant place in the spiritual beliefs of the Tagalog people, as documented in various historical sources, including the Boxer Codex, Customs of the Tagalogs by Juan de Plasencia, and the Vocabulario de la Lengua Tagala by Noceda-Sanclucar.

Dalagang Nasa Buwan

The Tagalog people revered and worshiped the moon, particularly during the new moon, as evidenced by the Boxer Codex. During this lunar phase, they engaged in celebrations, prayers, and offerings, seeking life, riches, and well-being. The moon was considered a deity capable of granting abundance and long life.

The prayer dedicated to the moon goddess, as recorded in the San Buenaventura dictionary, reflects the Tagalog people's devotion. "Buwang Panginoon ko, payamanin mo ako" translates to "Moon, my Lady, make me rich," underscoring their belief in the moon's power to bestow prosperity.

historical sources, such as the Noceda-Sanclucar dictionary, point to the name Kulalaying. The discrepancy in names highlights the complexity and evolution of cultural and linguistic interpretations over time.

Maiden in the moon

Furthermore, the Vocabulario de la Lengua Tagala provides insights into the Tagalog understanding of the moon, describing it as "L. del cielo" or "from the sky." The entry also mentions specific phases of the moon, including "bagong bova" (new moon) and various descriptions of its appearance throughout the lunar cycle.

In the Carta sobre la idolatria de los naturales de la provincia de Zambales, the archbishop of Manila, Felipe Pardo, mentions another name associated with the moon goddess - Dalagang Binubukot, the Cloistered Maiden in the moon. This highlights the diversity in the regional interpretations of the moon deity, reflecting the rich tapestry of Tagalog beliefs.

Dalagang nasa buwan Kulalaying

The documented practices, prayers, and celebrations surrounding Kulalaying or Dalagang nasa Buwan showcase the Tagalog people's deep spiritual connection with the moon, seeking its blessings for a prosperous and fulfilling life.