Родопската юда
The Rhodopean Yuda

Summary/Abstract: In the beliefs and notions of the Rhodopean population there are female mythical creatures, whose functions are close, but not always completely identical. They bear the main features of thz samodiva and have a number of local designations, among which the denomination yuda is most widespread. The yudi appear in two main hypostases - as maidens and as whirlwinds. Their localization characterizes them as demons of nature - they appear in marginal places in the space, inhabited by man. The contact with them is designated as stepping over their sofra [table] or coming across their weddings. In the Rhodopes the image of yudi is influenced by the penetration of Islam and the notions of its demons. This is obvious in the characteristics of pen in the eastern Rhodopes. The image of the Rhodopean yuda is multi-faceted. It shows some features of a vegetation deity, connected to fertility and water. The samodiva in the Rhodopes is a character, whose appearance in the world of humans is connected to the calendar. In folk songs the yudi are mythical creatures, embodying the elements. In narrative genres they get close to sickness demons. These peculiarities characterize the yuda as one of the most interesting personages in Rhodopean folklore.

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