Bear Deity (Laotian)
The lunar bear deity of Lao animism, known as Phi Nyang, is associated with the cycles of the moon and the nocturnal world. This bear deity is most active during the full moon, descending from the mountains to walk among rice fields and bless crops with fertility. The Lao people tell stories of the moon bear teaching early humans how to plant rice and distinguish edible from poisonous plants. Its connection to the lunar calendar makes it a central figure in agricultural timing, with traditional farmers consulting the moon bear's phases