Rune Oracle

Greek folklore

The Mires

The Fates who visit the newborn

fatebirthdestinyblessingmarriage

Also called Moires, The Fates at birth.

The tale

In modern Greek belief, the three Mires come on the third night after a child's birth to decide and write its fate. Families swept the house, lit a lamp and set out honey, bread, almonds and sometimes coins so that the Mires would be pleased and give a good fate. The saying it is written, grammeno, expresses the same idea. They are the direct descendants of the ancient Moirai.

When they are met

  • The third night after a birth, when they were said to come and write the child's fate
  • At weddings
  • On the eve of the New Year in some regions

Staying on their good side

  • Honey
  • Bread or sweet cakes
  • A coin
  • Water and a clean, tidy room

Honouring them, or keeping safe

  1. On the third night after a birth, set a small table with honey and bread by the cradle as a blessing, following the old custom.
  2. Keep the house tidy and a lamp lit so the Mires come in good humour.
  3. Say a blessing aloud for the child's good fortune.

What their tales teach

  • Welcoming a new baby
  • Blessing a child's future
  • Connecting with Greek family tradition

Symbols

  • honey
  • bread
  • table set by the cradle
  • thread

Customs varied by region and have largely faded, but the phrases survive.

Sources

  • J. C. Lawson, Modern Greek Folklore and Ancient Greek Religion (1910)
  • Charles Stewart, Demons and the Devil (1991)

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