How did Baltic people personify forces of nature?

In Baltic religion, the personification of nature is a central feature, manifesting through a hierarchy of divinities and spirits that reflect an agricultural way of life.1

Astral and Atmospheric Deities

The Baltic peoples viewed the sky and heavenly bodies as personified entities. Major figures include Saule (the Sun), Mēness (the Moon), and Auseklis. These gods were often depicted with human-like traits, such as riding in chariots or engaging in marriage, and were seen as part of a cosmic order that humans were expected to follow. Similarly, atmospheric forces were personified as "Mothers," such as Vēja māte (Mother of the Wind), Lietus māte (Mother of the Rain), Miglas māte (Mother of the Fog), and Sniega māte (Mother of the Snow).123

Earth and Nature Spirits

The earth itself was personified as a "Mother" figure, serving as the primary force in a fertility cult that ensured human welfare. This personification extended to specific natural environments:1
* Forests: Represented by Meža māte (Mother of the Forest) or Medeinė, with further metaphorical divisions like Lapu māte (Mother of the Leaves) and Ziedu māte (Mother of the Blossoms).3
* Waters: Personified as Jūras māte (Mother of the Sea), Upes māte (Mother of the Rivers), and Bangu māte (Mother of the Waves).3

Beyond these major figures, Baltic religion recognized countless fluid, less-defined spirits of the fields, woods, and homes, which appeared in various guises to oversee specific aspects of the farmer's life.13