Did Egyptians Worship Cats?
There is something ethereal about cats that gives them a mystical aura. Thus, it’s easy to assume the answer to the question “Did Egyptians worship cats” must be yes. But, as this article shows, it’s not as simple as that.
Humans have been captivated by cats for at least 10,000 years. And there is evidence that some ancient civilizations may have revered cats as sacred beings. For example, a cat deity in ancient Egypt was said to protect against venomous snakes and scorpions.
Of course, it’s never as simple as all that. According to Julia Troche, an Egyptologist, spoilsport, and assistant professor of history at Missouri State University, “The ancient Egyptians did not worship animals. Rather, they saw animals as representations of divine aspects of their gods.”
Nevertheless, as dedicated ailurophiles, let’s ignore the brainiac and embark on a journey back in time to explore three examples that imply our ancestors did indeed worship cats.
Bastet, the Divine Protector
No ancient civilization celebrated the feline form quite like ancient Egypt. The goddess Bastet, depicted with the head of a lioness or a domestic cat, personified both ferocity and gentleness.
Egyptians believed that Bastet guarded against evil spirits and offered protection to their homes. Cats were adored as symbols of grace and fertility, and their loss was mourned as a tragic event. The penalty for harming or killing a cat was severe, reflecting the immense veneration of these creatures.
My own cats tell me they endorse harsh measures against all who would do them harm. But, lest you’re tempted to attribute divine beneficence to my moggies, they’re considerably less bothered about those who would do harm to dogs.
Domestication
Feline domestication is thought to have happened 10,000–12,000 years ago.
Domination
Cats have traveled the world with us and, like us, easily adapt to new habitats.
Desperation
We now are the greatest danger cats face. They desperately need our help.
The Sacred Companion
In the Roman Empire, cats held a special place in religious observance. And it’s no surprise to find them associated with Diana, the goddess of the hunt.
Romans ascribed mystical abilities to cats, such as seeing spirits and foretelling omens. As a result, Roman households valued the good fortune they brought. Cats were also a safeguard against ill fortune, and their vigilant presence in homes brought comfort and tranquility.
Irrespective of any supernatural beliefs, we at CatInfo.net suspect every cat-loving Roman was happier and less prone to diseases spread by vermin.
Freyja’s Feline Companions
Known for her love, beauty, and fertility, the Norse goddess Freyja kept two large, majestic cats to pull her chariot.
These divine felines, often depicted with her in art, symbolized grace, independence, and sensuality. The Norse revered cats as sacred guardians that kept away evil spirits and bestowed blessings upon devotees.
The connection between Freyja and her feline companions showcased the intertwining of the divine and the natural world.
Conclusion to “Did Egyptians Worship Cats?”
Cats held a unique place in the majestic temples of ancient Egypt, the households of Rome, and the mythological realms of Norse gods. It’s easy to imagine ancient people adoring cats as symbols of protection, divinity, and companionship.
This is a long-winded way of answering “Did Egyptians Worship Cats” with a resounding “Yes!”
The evidence may not be sufficient for an Associate Professor of History, but it’s good enough for us. The legacy of our favorite feline’s sacred status continues to enchant and inspire people today, reminding us of the profound bond between cats and their human devotees.
