The POCONG: Indonesia's Hauntingly Real Ghost

The POCONG is perhaps the most famous and intriguing ghost from Indonesia. Rooted in Javanese folklore, the POCONG is believed to be the soul of a dead person trapped in their shroud, making it a fascinating and somewhat terrifying entity in the realm of ghostly legends.

What is POCONG?

POCONG, known in Indonesian as kain kafan, refers to the prescribed length of white cloth used in Muslim burials to wrap the bodies of the deceased. According to traditional beliefs, the soul of a dead person stays on Earth for 40 days after death. If the ties on the shroud are not released within this period, the soul may jump out of its grave to warn people that it needs to be set free. Only after the ties are released does the soul find peace and leave the earth permanently, making the POCONG both a warning and a liberation.

Appearance and Behavior of POCONG

POCONGs come in various shapes and sizes, differing based on the physical appearance of the deceased and the state of the body's decomposition. A person who has only recently died might retain some resemblance to their former self, albeit with minor signs of decomposition. Fresh POCONGs are often described as pale-faced and with wide open eyes. Some accounts describe a POCONG with a dark face and glowing red eyes, while decaying POCONGs might have pale, featureless faces with flat and empty eye sockets.

Contrary to popular culture, genuine POCONGs are believed to move by floating above the ground, rather than hopping like rabbits as often depicted in media. This unique mode of movement makes it distinct and more terrifying when encountered in the wild. Their behavior is often unpredictable, with some being docile and seeking help, while others take pleasure in terrifying those around them. Unlike other ghosts, POCONGs are not bound to the physical world; they can move freely through solid objects and even teleport almost instantly from one place to another.

Colonies and Distribution of POCONG

POCONGs can form colonies, ranging from a few dozen to thousands. While anecdotal records suggest most sightings indicate a single POCONG, colonies do exist. Despite their fidelity to the original grave, POCONGs are known to frequent various locations, from their final resting places to their former homes. Interestingly, banana trees seem to be a preferred spot for these ghostly entities. It is not uncommon to find a small colony of POCONGs gathered around or near these trees.

Conclusion

The POCONG remains one of the most famous and intriguing ghosts from Indonesia. From its haunting appearance to its ethereal movements, the POCONG continues to captivate and inspire both fear and fascination. Whether encountered alone or in colonies, these entities symbolize the complex relationship between the living and the dead as depicted in Indonesian folklore.