A žaltys (Lithuanian pronunciation: [ʒɐlʲˈtʲǐːs], literally: grass snake) is a household spirit in Lithuanian mythology. As sacred animal of the sun goddess Saulė, [1] it is a guardian of the home and a symbol of fertility. [2] People used to keep it as a pet by the stove or other special area of the house, [1] believing that it would bring good harvest and wealth. [2] Killing žaltys was said to bring great misfortunes upon the household. [1] If žaltys was found in the field, people gave it milk attempting to befriend the creature and make it a sacred household pet. [3]
A žaltys (Lithuanian pronunciation: [ʒɐlʲˈtʲǐːs], literally: grass snake) is a household spirit in Lithuanian mythology. As sacred animal of the sun goddess Saulė, [1] it is a guardian of the home and a symbol of fertility. [2] People used to keep it as a pet by the stove or other special area of the house, [1] believing that it would bring good harvest and wealth. [2] Killing žaltys was said to bring great misfortunes upon the household. [1] If žaltys was found in the field, people gave it milk attempting to befriend the creature and make it a sacred household pet. [3]