Spotlight on: The Fates

The Fates, or Moirai, are the embodiments of destiny, controlling the thread of life for every mortal. According to ancient Greek beliefs, while humans possess free will, the ultimate path of their lives is preordained by these three powerful sisters: Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos. Each sister plays a crucial role in the lifecycle, weaving together every individual’s fabric of existence from birth to death.

The Three Sisters

Clotho, the Spinner

Clotho is known as the Spinner. She spins the thread of life with her spindle, beginning her work while a human is still in the womb. Her presence is often invoked around the ninth month of pregnancy as she weaves every future decision and outcome into the thread of life. Clotho’s role symbolises the beginning of life, the creation of potential, and the intricate weaving of destiny.

Lachesis, the Allotter

Lachesis is known as the Allotter. She measures the thread of life, determining its length and the trials and tribulations one will face. Lachesis’ role involves allotting each person their destiny, balancing joy and sorrow, success and failure. Her careful measurement ensures that each life is given its destined path, filled with experiences that shape and define the individual.

Atropos, the Inevitable

Atropos, the most feared of the sisters, is known as the inevitable or the inflexible. She cuts the thread of life, deciding the moment and manner of death. Atropos was originally known as a demon called Aisa. Once she severs the thread, containing the essence of the person’s soul, the individual’s journey in the mortal world ends, and they move to the underworld for judgement. There, they are directed to Elysium, and end up in either the Fields of Asphodel, or the Fields of Punishment based on their earthly deeds.

The Weavers of Destiny

The Moirai’s role is to ensure that each person lives the life destined for them, with their lives represented as pieces of thread from Clotho’s spindle. This symbolic thread encapsulates every aspect of a person’s existence, from the joys of birth to the inevitability of death.

In Norse mythology, the Norns perform a similar function, weaving the destinies of gods and humans alike. The Hittite culture refers to them as the Hutena, and in Roman mythology, they are known as the Fata. Despite cultural differences, the essence of these fate-weaving beings remains consistent: they hold the power to shape destiny, uniting different mythological traditions under a common theme.

Throughout history, the Fates have been depicted in various forms. Sometimes they are portrayed as old and wise, other times as youthful and vibrant. They often embody the triple goddess phases: Clotho as the maiden, Lachesis as the mother, and Atropos as the crone. These representations highlight different aspects of life – the freshness of new beginnings, the fullness of maturity, and the wisdom of the end. Yet, one element remains constant in all depictions: the thread.

If you find you need to call on the sisters three, be sure to leave an offering. They like honey, incense, red wine, and other alcoholic beverages.

The Moirai, or Fates, are timeless symbols of destiny and the intricate web of life. Their presence in mythology underscores the belief that while we possess free will, our lives are also guided by a higher order. By understanding and embracing the roles of Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos, we can gain deeper insights into our own lives and the paths we are destined to follow. Whether seeking guidance during major life changes, navigating uncertainty, or embracing the end, the Fates offer wisdom and clarity, helping us weave our own threads of destiny with grace and purpose.