Eileithyia

Eileithyia is the Greek goddess of childbirth and labor pains. She is the daughter of Zeus and Hera. Eileithyia’s role was to assist women in labor and ease their pains, ensuring safe delivery of babies.

Key Points about Eileithyia:

• Parentage: Eileithyia is the daughter of Zeus and Hera.
• Symbols: She is often depicted with symbols associated with childbirth and midwifery.
• Cult and Worship: Her worship was particularly prominent in Crete, where she was believed to aid in the annual birth of the divine child. Shrines dedicated to her have also been found in Olympia, Tegea, Argos, Aigion, and Athens.
• Mythology: In some myths, there are references to multiple Eileithyiae, with one goddess aiding in childbirth and another prolonging labor.

Eileithyia’s role highlights the importance of childbirth and the reverence ancient Greeks had for the process of bringing new life into the world.