Although spirits of death are rarely popular, Oni were perceived as fulfilling a spiritual function. Their role now includes punishing sinners. (The disappearance of female Oni may account for some of the male Oni’s famed crankiness.) Oni were incorporated into Buddhism, becoming gate guardians of the various Buddhist hells and death realms. There were originally both male and female Oni who supervised the frontier between life and death. This legend of the human-eating Oni may derive from their origins as spirits of death. Allegedly some enjoy the taste of human flesh. They are often portrayed as vicious, malevolent, ominous Demons up to no good and are featured in many horror tales. Oni are spirits of justice who destroy as well as protect. Allegedly if an Oni loses a limb, it reconnects and heals instantly-another reason why they so enjoy brawling. However unlike classic European ogres, Oni are not stupid or slow but very smart and thus formidable opponents with magical, supernatural powers. Oni is frequently translated into English as “devil” or “ogre,” emphasizing their scary, destructive aspects. Oni frequently enjoy a battle, so they may banish and disperse evil spirits and ghosts just for the fun of it, even without being asked.
They can cause trouble for people but may also be protective.
Oni are raucous, defiant spirits of chaos and mischief.
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