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Genetyllides
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In Greek mythology, the Genetyllides (Ancient Greek: Γενετυλλίδες) were minor goddesses or spirits connected with the childbirth ("of one's birth hour"[1]) and procreation with a sanctuary on Cape Colias. Often depicted as attendants of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, the Genetyllides held a significant, albeit specialized, role in the religious beliefs of ancient Greece.[2][3] The Genetyllides were mostly venerated by women,[2] with men regarding the cult as suspicious ("foreign religion" according to Aristophanes in The Clouds, possibly indicating influence of Astarte).[4] These spirits were symbolizing female sensuality and associated with gluttony, deep kisses, erotic music.[5]
Similar to Eileithyia, Genetyllides received canine sacrifices for easy delivery of a baby,[2][4] an unusual choice of sacrificial animal in ancient Greece.[6] In a singular form, Genetyllis (Ancient Greek: Γενετυλλίς) became one of the names of Aphrodite and, sometimes, associated with Hekate or Artemis.[2][4]
Pausanias (1.1.5[7]) mentions Genetyllides alongside Gennaides (Hadzisteliou-Price suggests other kourotrophoi, Genethliai), different forms of the same group of nymphs associated with birth and offsprings.[8]
Small female figures next to Aphrodite on coins and in visual arts are sometimes interpreted as Genetyllides.[9]
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