The goddess Sekhmet is an important and fascinating figure in Egyptian mythology. To fully understand its history and role in Egyptian culture, it is essential to consider several aspects, such as its origin, appearance, attributes, legends, as well as its worship and posterity.
I. Origin and Appearance
Sekhmet, whose name means "the powerful", is a goddess of Egyptian mythology. It is often associated with war, violence, disease and healing. She is the daughter of the sun god Ra, and according to some legends, she is also the wife of the god Ptah and the mother of Nefertum, god of perfume.
Sekhmet is usually depicted as a woman with the head of a lioness, wearing a sun disk and a uraeus (erect cobra) on her head. This appearance reflects her violent and warlike nature, as well as her connection to the sun, which is associated with creation and destruction.
II. Attributes and role
As the goddess of war and violence, Sekhmet symbolizes the destructive force of the sun, capable of reducing enemies to ashes. She was considered a protector of the pharaohs during battles, as well as of their kingdom. Furthermore, she was also associated with justice and balance, maintaining cosmic order and eliminating chaos.
Sekhmet also plays a role in illness and healing. She was believed to send plagues and epidemics on enemies, but also possess curative powers. The priests of Sekhmet were often doctors, and the Egyptians prayed to her for protection against diseases and to cure them.
III. Legends
One of the most famous legends concerning Sekhmet is that of the “Destruction of mankind”. According to this myth, the sun god Ra sends his daughter Sekhmet to punish the humans who conspired against him. She begins to slaughter humans relentlessly, reveling in their blood. Ra, realizing that humanity would be entirely destroyed, decides to stop Sekhmet by flooding the fields with beer tinted red so that she mistakes it for blood. Intoxicated by the drink, she falls asleep and forgets her destructive mission. Thus, mankind is saved.
IV. Worship and posterity
The cult of Sekhmet was widespread in Egypt, with temples dedicated to her in cities such as Memphis and Luxor. The priests of Sekhmet practiced healing rites, as well as ceremonies to appease the goddess and avert her destructive wrath.
The goddess Sekhmet had a lasting influence on Egyptian culture, as well as the cultures that followed. She has been revered and respected throughout Egyptian history, and her image has been incorporated into art, sculptures and monuments. Even after the end of ancient Egyptian civilization, Sekhmet continued to be a symbol of power and protection.
V. Influence on other mythologies
The image and attributes of Sekhmet have also influenced other cultures and mythologies. For example, in Greek mythology, the goddess of war and wisdom Athena is sometimes depicted with attributes similar to those of Sekhmet, such as a helmet and a spear. Similarly, the Hindu goddess Durga, who is also a warrior and protective figure, is often depicted with a lion, reminiscent of the lioness head of Sekhmet.
VI. The goddess Sekhmet in the modern age
Today, Sekhmet continues to be an interesting figure for historians, Egyptologists, and mythology enthusiasts. Its image and legends are studied to better understand the culture and beliefs of ancient Egypt. Moreover, she is also present in popular culture, such as in novels, movies, and video games, where she is often portrayed as a powerful and fearsome figure.
In conclusion, the goddess Sekhmet is a complex and fascinating figure in Egyptian mythology. As the goddess of war, violence, disease and healing, she embodies the duality of destruction and protection. Its history, legends and cult offer us valuable insight into the culture and beliefs of ancient Egypt, as well as the influence of this civilization on later mythologies and cultures. Today, Sekhmet continues to inspire and intrigue scholars and the general public, testifying to his posterity and importance.
His story in pictures
Egyptian deities other than Sekhmet