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Please give me some examples from mythology and folklore of people who didn't see supernatural beings, to their detriment.

In mythology and folklore from various cultures, there are numerous tales where an individual's inability to perceive supernatural beings or entities leads to their detriment. Here are a few examples:

1. Greek Mythology: Actaeon

In Greek mythology, Actaeon was a hunter who accidentally stumbled upon Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, bathing in a forest. Because Actaeon saw Artemis in her sacred private moment, she punished him by transforming him into a stag. Unable to be recognized by his own hunting dogs, Actaeon was chased down and torn apart by them.

2. Celtic Mythology: The Fairy Folk

Celtic folklore is rich with stories of the Aos Sí, or fairy folk, who inhabit a world invisible to most humans. Those who are unable or unwilling to acknowledge the presence and power of the Aos Sí often suffer misfortune or are tricked. For instance, people who disrespect fairy mounds, known as fairy forts, might find themselves cursed, their livestock sickened, or their fortunes dwindled.

3. Norse Mythology: Giants and Gods

In Norse mythology, giants (Jotnar) are often at odds with the gods (Aesir and Vanir). Humans who are unable to recognize the presence of these supernatural beings might inadvertently get caught up in their conflicts or be manipulated by them. For example, in various tales, the god Loki often disguises himself, and those who fail to see through his disguise may suffer consequences as a result of his tricks.

4. Japanese Folklore: Yokai

Japanese folklore contains numerous Yokai, or supernatural creatures, that can cause harm to those who do not respect or acknowledge them. An example is the Tengu, a type of Yokai that can take on the form of a bird-like humanoid. They are known to abduct those who fail to pay them respect or who boast too loudly of their own abilities.

5. Native American Folklore: Skinwalkers

In some Native American traditions, particularly among the Navajo, there are tales of Skinwalkers—witches or other beings with the supernatural ability to turn into animals. Those who cannot see or recognize Skinwalkers may fall victim to their malevolent actions, which can include bringing illness, bad luck, or even death to those they target.

6. Biblical Narratives: Angels

In the Bible, there are several instances where angels appear to humans, but not all humans can always see them. For example, in the Book of Numbers, Balaam is traveling on his donkey when the angel of the Lord stands in his path as an adversary. Balaam cannot see the angel, but his donkey can, and refuses to move forward, saving him from the angel's wrath.

7. Slavic Mythology: Domovoi

In Slavic folklore, a Domovoi is a household spirit that guards the home. If the family fails to recognize or appease the Domovoi, it can become mischievous or even malicious, causing disturbances, breaking things, or bringing bad luck to the household.

These examples illustrate how in various cultures, the inability to perceive supernatural beings, whether through sight or belief, can result in harm or misfortune. They often serve as cautionary tales to respect the unseen and acknowledge the power of the supernatural world.

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