Tenome

Tenome (手の目) is a Japanese yōkai, or supernatural creature, typically depicted as a blind man whose eyes are located on the palms of his hands.

Appearance and Origins:

The Tenome is generally portrayed as an elderly, blind man. Its most striking feature, of course, is the presence of eyes in its palms rather than in their usual position on the face. The origin stories of the Tenome vary, often involving tragic circumstances. Common tales include:

• A blind man who was murdered and whose vengeful spirit manifested as a Tenome.
• A blind man who was abandoned and left to die, his sorrow transforming his hands into eyes to search for help.
• A victim of bandits or other violence, whose hands developed eyes in an attempt to seek justice.

Behavior and Habitat:

Tenome are typically found in dark, secluded areas, such as graveyards, abandoned temples, or forests. They are often portrayed as being aggressive and dangerous. When encountered, the Tenome is said to chase after its victim, using the eyes in its hands to navigate. It is often depicted as moving erratically and frighteningly quickly.

Cultural Significance:

The Tenome embodies several common themes in Japanese folklore, including:

• The fear of the disabled and societal outcasts.
• The power of vengeance and the restless spirits of the wrongly deceased.
• The grotesque transformation of the human body as a result of trauma and despair.
• The dangers lurking in darkness and the unknown.

The Tenome serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of compassion and the potential consequences of cruelty. It remains a popular figure in Japanese horror and folklore, appearing in literature, film, and video games.