atja

Atja, also known as Adja or Adia, is a celestial being found in the mythology of the Altai people of Siberia and Mongolia. Atja is primarily associated with the sky and the heavens. While not always explicitly defined as a single deity, Atja represents a collective of sky spirits or a personification of the celestial realm itself. These spirits are believed to inhabit the upper layers of the cosmos and have influence over natural phenomena occurring in the sky, such as weather patterns, storms, and the movement of stars and planets.

The Altai people traditionally viewed the cosmos as having multiple layers, with Atja residing in the highest. Interactions with Atja were typically through shamans, who would act as intermediaries to communicate with these celestial beings. Offerings and rituals were performed to appease Atja and ensure favorable conditions, such as good harvests and protection from harmful forces. While not as prominent as some other figures in Altai mythology, Atja plays a significant role in their cosmological understanding and spiritual practices, emphasizing the profound connection between the earthly and celestial realms. The exact depiction and role of Atja can vary slightly among different Altai tribes and historical periods.