Domovoi— Slavic Spirit"House Spirit"

Guardian of the Home

The Domovoi is the household spirit of Slavic tradition—every home has one, living behind the stove or in the threshold. He protects the family, guards against evil spirits, and watches over the house when everyone sleeps. He is typically benevolent, but demands respect; neglect or insult will turn him mischievous or malevolent.

The Little Old Man

Domovoi appear as small, hairy old men, sometimes resembling the oldest male of the family or a deceased patriarch. They are usually invisible, revealing themselves only in glimpses—a shadow by the stove, a figure in the corner of the eye. Some can shapeshift into cats, dogs, or other household animals. Their touch at night can be felt but not seen.

Keeping the Domovoi Happy

Families maintain good relations with their Domovoi through simple offerings: a bit of bread, a bowl of kasha (porridge), the first pancake of a batch left by the stove. The home must be kept clean, the family must not quarrel excessively, and no one should whistle indoors—Domovoi hate whistling. In return, he protects against fire, warns of danger, and helps with small tasks.

Signs and Omens

The Domovoi communicates through signs. If he strokes your face at night with a warm, furry hand, good fortune is coming. If the touch is cold and rough, misfortune approaches. Strange sounds at night—footsteps, sighs, rattling—are often attributed to a restless Domovoi. Some could foretell deaths in the family through their moaning.

Moving House

When a family moves, they must invite the Domovoi to come with them, or he will be left behind, grieving and potentially dangerous to the new occupants. Traditional rituals involve offering the Domovoi bread and salt, placing coals from the old stove in the new one, and formally inviting him: "Grandfather Domovoi, come with us to the new home."