Fates, also known as the Moirai, refer to a group of deities in Greek mythology responsible for controlling the destiny and fortune of individuals. In ancient Greek belief, the Fates were three sisters: Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos.
Clotho, the youngest sister, was responsible for spinning the thread of life. She would start the life of every mortal being by spinning a thread from her spindle. Lachesis, the middle sister, was in charge of measuring the thread. She determined the length and allotted time of each person's life. Finally, Atropos, the eldest sister, was in charge of cutting the thread of life. Once Lachesis measured the thread, Atropos decided the moment of death and cut the thread with her shears, determining the end of each person's life.
The Fates were considered powerful and implacable forces, controlling the course of human lives and ultimately being responsible for determining each person's destiny. They were seen as impartial and fair, with no regard for rich or poor, noble or common. The concept of the Fates was deeply ingrained in Greek culture, emphasizing the belief that everyone's life was predetermined and that mortal actions could not change the hand of destiny dealt to them.
Today, the term "fates" is often used figuratively to refer to the outcomes or inevitable consequences of events in a person's life. It can also suggest a sense of predestination or the belief in a higher power guiding the course of human existence.
