Horae

The Horae or Hours were the goddesses of the seasons in Greek mythology. They were also considered to be the goddesses of order and justice, as well as the wardens at the gates of Mount Olympus. They were the daughters of either Zeus and Aphrodite, or Zeus and Themis. Two groups of Horae are mentioned in the Greek myths.

The first group was associated with Aphrodite and Zeus, and was linked to the classical three seasons of the year; Thallo (the bringer of blossoms) was the goddess of spring and blooming, protecting young people; Auxo (the increaser of plants); and Carpo (the bringer of food) was linked to autumn, ripening and harvesting. The latter was also the main guardian of the path that led to Mount Olympus and the one who concealed it behind the clouds.

The second group, linked to Themis and Zeus, was closely associated with law and order. The three Horae in this case were Dike, goddess of moral justice; Eunomia, goddess of order and governing according to good laws; and Eirene, goddess of peace and wealth, who was depicted carrying a cornucopia, scepter and a torch.

See Also: Zeus, Aphrodite, Themis