Küsitähte

Küsitähte is a term originating from Estonian folklore and mythology. It translates literally to "asking star" or "question star." Historically, Küsitähte was associated with a belief that a particular star, visible during certain times of the year, could answer questions posed to it. It was considered a celestial entity that held wisdom and could offer guidance or insights.

The practice of consulting Küsitähte typically involved observing the star and formulating a question in one's mind. It was believed that the star's movement, brightness, or the atmospheric conditions surrounding it would then provide an answer. This could be interpreted through various signs, such as the star appearing brighter for a positive response or dimmer for a negative one, or even by observing patterns in nature that coincided with the star's visibility.

The exact celestial body identified as Küsitähte varies in different regional traditions and historical accounts, making it difficult to pinpoint a single, definitive star. It is often described as a bright, solitary star, sometimes appearing during the twilight hours. The concept of Küsitähte reflects a broader animistic worldview found in many ancient cultures, where natural phenomena, including celestial bodies, were imbued with spiritual significance and believed to possess agency. While the folklore surrounding Küsitähte is not widely practiced today, it remains an interesting element of Estonian cultural heritage, illustrating past beliefs about the connection between the earthly and the cosmic.