Shapi Leima (Shabi Leima) or Sapi Leima (Sabi Leima) is the goddess of rodents in Meitei mythology and religion. She is a sister of goddesses Khunu Leima and Nganu Leima. Legend says that all three sisters married the same mortal man.
Etymology
The Meitei female given name "Sapi Leima" (ꯁꯄꯤ ꯂꯩꯃ) or "Sabi Leima" (ꯁꯕꯤ ꯂꯩꯃ) is made up of two component words. The two words are "Sabi" (ꯁꯕꯤ) and "Leima" (ꯂꯩꯃ). "Sabi" (ꯁꯕꯤ) is a rat like animal. It lives in the clumps of bamboos. It is known for having sharp teeth. The word "Leima" (ꯂꯩꯃ) is further made up of two component words, "Lei" (ꯂꯩ) and "Ma" (ꯃ). "Lei" (ꯂꯩ) means land or earth. "Ma" (ꯃ) means "mother". Literally, "Leima" (ꯂꯩꯃ) can be translated as "Land Mother" or "Mother Earth". But in general context, "Leima" (ꯂꯩꯃ) means a queen or a mistress or a lady.
Description
Goddess Shapi Leima (Shabi Leima) is described as the ruler of all the rodents of the world. At any time, she could summon all the rodents at any place she wishes. She is the youngest daughter of God Salailen (alias Soraren).