The Fates did not abruptly interfere in human affairs but availed themselves of intermediate causes, and determined the lot of mortals not absolutely, but only conditionally, even man himself, in his freedom was allowed to exercise a certain influence upon them. It was not an inflexible fate Zeus, if he chose, had the power of saving even those who were already on the point of being seized by their fate. Zeus Moiragetes, the god of fate, was their leader.Īt the birth of a man, the Moirai spinned out the thread of his future life, followed his steps, and directed the consequences of his actions according to the counsel of the gods. Lakhesis (Lachesis), 'the Apportioner of Lots', who measured it, andĪtropos (or Aisa), 'She who cannot be turned,' who cut it short. Their name means 'Parts.' 'Shares' or 'Alottted Portions.' The individuals were Klotho (Clotho), the 'the Spinner,' who spun the thread of life,
They assigned to every person his or her fate or share in the scheme of things. THE MOIRAI (Moirae) were the three goddesses of fate who personified the inescapable destiny of man. Fates Spinner, Athenian red-figure oinochoe C5th B.C., British Museum
