KTRT – The Swallow-Like Daughters of the Crescent Moon
Semitic languages traditionally have no written vowels and so only the consonants of these sister goddesses survive: KTRT. Among the suggested pronunciations of their names are Katirat; Kotarot and Kotharat; however these are all guesses. Their name derives from a root word indicating skill or wisdom.
The KTRT are goddesses of sexual delight, conception and childbirth. They are seven in number. In the Ugaritic myth, the Epic of Aqhat, when a child is desired, the KTRT are feasted for seven days. By the time they depart on the seventh day, pregnancy has been achieved. In the mythic epic poem, “Nikkal and the Kathirat”, the seven sisters are summoned to provide what is necessary for the wedding and are requested for their blessings. The KTRT are reminiscent of the Seven Hathors.
ORIGIN:
West Semitic: Canaan; Phoenicia
PLANET:
Moon, especially crescent
Sacred bird:
Swallow (associated with fertility in Egypt and Semitic West Asia)
SEE ALSO:
- Asherah, Lady;
- Hathor;
- Kadesh;
- Kothar wa-Khasis
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.