Erlik The Underworld Deity in East Asian Mythology

**Erlik: The Underworld Deity in East Asian Mythology** In the vast expanse of East Asian mythology, Erlik stands as a powerful and complex deity associated with the underworld and the afterlife. Known by various names and depicted in different forms across cultures, Erlik is primarily revered in the shamanistic traditions of Central Asia, particularly among the Turkic and Mongolic peoples. His character embodies themes of death, judgment, and the balance between good and evil. Erlik, often referred to as Erlik Khan or Erlig Khan, is considered the god of the underworld (Tamag) and the ruler of the dead. In many myths, he is depicted as a formidable and fearsome figure, wielding great power over the souls of the deceased. His role in mythology is dualistic; while he is feared as a bringer of death and misfortune, he is also respected as a necessary force in the cosmic order. According to Central Asian myths, Erlik was once a divine being who fell from grace due to his pride and ambition.