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When Cats Were Gods | Bast | Sekhmet | Maahes | Mafdet BastOriginally Bast was viewed as a powerful lioness, appearing on many war shields. Since near the beginning of Egyptian history she had been linked with the Pharaoh. As the cat underwent domestication, Bast’s image adapted into that of a playful and affectionate housecat. Nevertheless, she was not diminished by that change. Her new nature made her more assessable to the general population and she became the patron goddess of the sun, cats, women, and secrets, through she still held the fierce strength of a lion. She was greatly admired for her agility and strength.
Bast only grew in popularity as the ancient Egyptian civilization reached its decline. According to Heretrodotus (a 5th century Greek historian) the beauty of Bast’s temple was bested only by that of Ra and of Horus. The temple was built of red granite and held a grove of trees in the courtyard, a great statue of Bast in its centre, and was home to many sacred cats. An annual festival was held in Bast’s city. People from all over Egypt travelled down the Nile to attend. The festival lasted for several days and was accompanied by much wine and feasting. In later days Bast began to be paired with the Greek goddess Artemis. She took on new aspects related to this goddess. Bast became a patron of the moon and in various sculptures is seen wearing as a cat-headed woman wearing Greek style attire. Amulets of Bast were worn to promote fertility and protection. Bast’s image also found its way onto everything from hand mirrors to perfume jars. She featured in statues both as a feline, or as a cat-headed woman, holding either an ankh, a sistrum (musical instrument), or a papyrus wand. Malek, Jaromir (2006). The Cat in Ancient Egypt. London: British Museum Press. ISBN 978-0714119700. Cass, Stephanie. "Bast: Depictions" All About Bast. Cass, Stephanie. "Bast: Roles and Hieroglyphs" All About Bast. Cass, Stephanie. "Bast: sex, Artemis, and Herodotus" All About Bast. "Bast" Gods and Mythology of Ancient Egypt. |
Whereas the lioness goddess Sekhmet portrayed the fierce aspects of the sun, Bast embodied its warm and life-giving energy. Bast was considered an ‘Eye of Ra’, meaning she was either a protector or avenger of the sun god. She defended him against the serpent Apep.
