Encyclopedia of Mythical Creatures:
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Weather Divination

Creature Types: Other

Mythological/Cultural Origins: African, Greek

Roles/Functions in Lore: Ritual

Literary Sources/Traditions: Classical Mythology

Historical/Legendary Time Periods: Classical Antiquity

Attributes/Powers: Weather Control

Alignments/Moral Standings: Neutral

Weather divination was practiced in ancient Greece by priests called Galazophyiaces, who observed hail and storms to predict and avert them. To placate the gods, they sacrificed lambs or chickens; failing auspicious omens, they lanced their fingers. Ethiopian healers also reportedly mutilated themselves to secure rain, reflecting blood-sacrifice rituals for climate control.