Peko
Peko (Finnish spelling Pekko, Pellon Pekko) is an ancient Estonian and Finnish god of crops, especially barley and brewing. In area of Setonia (Setumaa) between Estonia and Russia the cult of Peko was alive until the 20th century. Setonians (Ethnic group of Estonians) also rever Peko as their national hero and king. Before Pentecost festivities, Sunday morning before the dawn Setonian young men had ritual fight until the first drop of blood. The bleeding person became the host of the feast next year. Black candles were lit to revere wooden idol called Peko. The people chanted "Peko, Peko, come to drink the beer" and some older man called the priest of Peko made sacrifice. Second holiday dedicated to Peko was held after the harvest. Peko was also revered during Candlemas and Midsummer feasts. The carved idols of Peko were kept hidden in farms granary around the year. The head of idol had typically holes for candles. In Finland, Peko is known as Pellon Pekko (Peko of the field). He is the protector of the fields and brewer of the beer, first mentioned by bishop Agricola in 1551 as god of Karelians. Peko is sometimes associated with Estonian Pikne/Pitkne, Baltic Perkunas or even Chistian St Peter. Setonian folksinger Anne Vabarna has created epic "Songs of Peko" where Peko is depicted as Setonian hero. Peko, the ancient the king of the meadows is in eternal sleep in the cave. When someone calls his name, he brings the rain to the fields. If people of his kin remember his advice and work hard, Peko sends them abundant crops. Peko is praised as a warrior who frees the country, hunter who gives bear skins to villagers and host of the wedding feasts. He ploughs the field with a wooden plough and protects the people against evil spirits who have made people to drink too much. Pekos spirit can fly around as butterfly. The supposed grave of "king Peko" is under an old oak tree near the Pskov-Pechorsky Monastery.
See also Estonian mythology Finnish mythology
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