Ajysit

Milk Lake Mother; Birthgiving Mistress

ORIGIN:

Yakut (Siberia)

Ajysit is a goddess of laughter, fate, fertility, and childbirth. She is involved in the whole birth process, beginning at conception. She may be petitioned specifically for a male child. Ajysit assists during labor; her presence helps ensure safety. She eases the pain of labor and brings the soul to the child. She records every new birth in a golden book, together with the child’s future fate.

If delivery is unsuccessful, it is unnecessary to perform rituals or create a feast for Ajysit, who departs quietly and discreetly.

Realm: Ajysit lives atop a seven-story mountain.

Creatures: Ajysit has dominion over domestic animals. The cow is her sacred creature.

Rituals and offerings: A special offering table is created in the delivery room. She prefers offerings of butter. She expects various post-birth rituals to be performed involving the midwife, the new mother, and other women, particularly those also seeking fertility. (Ajysit is very receptive to fertility petitions at this time.) A feast is prepared in Ajysit’s honor. For three days following the birth, the new mother is sequestered. Her female friends come to visit her and share butter with her. After the three days are up, the mother’s bedding is tied into the top of a tall tree. Ajysit departs until the next birth.

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes