Moirai

The Moirai (/ˈmɔɪraɪ, -riː/), commonly known as the Fates in English, were the embodiments of destiny in ancient Greek religion and mythology. These three sisters—Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos—each fulfilled a specific role in determining the course of all lives:

Clotho (the spinner) created the thread of life

Lachesis (the allotter) measured its length

Atropos (the inevitable) cut it at the appointed time, representing death

The Romans knew these figures as the Parcae.

The Moirai's primary purpose was enforcing destiny according to universal law. For mortals, destiny was visualized as a thread spun from Clotho's spindle. In most traditions, their authority extended beyond even the gods, though some accounts suggest Zeus could command them.

This concept of cosmic order parallels similar principles in other ancient cultures, including the Vedic Ṛta, Avestan Asha (Arta), and Egyptian Maat—all representing fundamental natural balance and order in the universe.