Tigyama

The guardian of the house, the "one who takes care of or protects." Tigyama is lovingly summoned to come and be present at a ceremony. The spirit also heals the sick. A little hanging altar, found in many Bagobo houses, is also called tigyama and on it is placed betel as an offering for this spirit.

The name is also applied to a class of spirits, one of whom looks after each family. When children marry, the tigyama of the two families unite to form one who thereafter guards the couple. These spirits are usually well disposed but are capable of killing those who fail to show them respect, or who violate the rules governing family life.¹

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