Jumis

by Aldis Pūtelis

A Latvian field and fertility god who is sometimes compared with the Roman Janus. He may have originated from a fetish. His attribute is any double-fruit, for instance two corn stalks that have grown together on the same trunk.

In order to preserve Jumis' growth in the winter months, during the harvest a few ears are bent to the ground and secured there with stones. A characteristic ritual is Jumja ķeršana ("Chase of Jumis") on Miķeļi, the autumn solstice, where some ears are brought home in a ritualistic procession as the 'caught' Jumis to ensure the fertility of the next year, so that it is at least of the same level. This tradition is very similar to those known among different Germanic tribes. There are etymologies connecting Jumis to Yama and double-faced Janus.

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