Dekteri

Dekteri (sometimes romanized as Decteri or variations thereof) is a term primarily associated with Celtic mythology, specifically within the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. She is best known as the mother of the hero Cú Chulainn.

Dekteri is generally portrayed as the sister of King Conchobar mac Nessa, the ruler of Ulster. Her role is crucial in the birth of Cú Chulainn, whose father is often cited as the god Lugh, though alternative accounts exist.

The circumstances surrounding Cú Chulainn's conception are complex and vary across different versions of the myths. Common threads include Dekteri swallowing a Mayfly containing the essence of Lugh, or through some other magical or supernatural occurrence. This leads to her becoming pregnant despite her unmarried status. In some versions, she undergoes a period of transformation, potentially even being reborn or transformed into another being before reassuming her human form and giving birth to Cú Chulainn.

Dekteri's significance lies not only in being the mother of a central hero in Irish mythology but also in representing the link between the mortal world and the realm of the gods. Her story exemplifies themes of divine parentage, supernatural conception, and the extraordinary origins often attributed to legendary figures. After Cú Chulainn's birth, Dekteri largely fades from the main narrative, her primary role fulfilled in bringing the hero into existence. Her existence is mostly defined by her relationship with Cú Chulainn and Conchobar.