Egyptian Bastet

It seems natural to speak of cats and Egypt in the same sentence. Although both cats and Egypt share a long history. Most experts believe that cat ancient Egyptians were the first to domesticate cats. At first, they have cats in their barns and households due to the ability of cats to catch mice and other critters. Later, the ancient Egyptians - especially the rich - have begun to adopt cats as pets.

Cats became so important that the Egyptians went into mourning when a cat died the family. It is believed that these Egyptian cats were the ancestors of the Egyptian Mau, a modern breed of cat. Indeed, the paintings on the tombs and other buildings showcase spotted cat muscle, which resemble the modern Mau.

Felines were so revered in ancient Egypt, to the point where people who have been injured cats put to death. However, according to many experts, the Egyptians did not worship the animals per se. Rather, they thought the animals incorporated divine qualities and some animals used to describe the attributes.

Egyptian cats became so important that they were regarded as the direct representatives of Bastet, the cat goddess of protection, fertility and children. Bast, also known as Bast was depicted as a woman head of a cat or a cat just like desert.

Other feline goddesses Sekhmet, sister of Bastet, and Mafdet. Sekhmet was represented as a woman head of a lioness. It was a darker side of the divine will. Contrary to the protection Bastet, it was associated with a devastating power. Mafdet, the goddess cheetah represented swift justice and trial. She was also known as the goddess of panther.

Egyptian cats indeed bring to mind images of ancient myths and magical beauty. If you or your cat loving friends love cats <i> and </ i> Egypt, you may find Egyptian cat inspired prints, figurines and statues to make gifts. There are also books on the role of cats in ancient Egypt and the cat goddesses mentioned here. These gifts make great cat lover, too.