Bisan

For other uses, seeBisan (disambiguation).

InMalaysian folklore,theBisanorBisaan(meaning "woman" ) is a femalenature spiritordeitywidely venerated among theMalayandJakunnatives. It is believed that every species of tree has a unique spirit presiding over it, and the Bisan is said to be the specific guardian of thecamphor-bearing tree.She can appear in the form of acicada,and even makes cicada-like sounds at night when she sings—a sure indication that camphor will be found nearby. However, the Bisan is a very jealous spirit, and will drive away anyone looking for camphor unless she is correctly propitiated. Offerings of food may be given to her, and she may also accept the sacrifice of a whitecockerel.To prevent the Bisan even further, a person must speak to her only inbahasa kapororpatang kapor( "camphor language", a mixture ofMalayandJakun), an artificial language specifically made to completely confuse the Bisan long enough for the person to look for camphor unhindered.