Who is the Egyptian Cat Goddess, Bast?
The history of the goddess and how I include her in my spiritual practice
Bast is an ancient Egyptian goddess of protection, health, joy, and motherhood. She was cherished by the ancient Egyptians as the Protector of Lower Egypt, patron goddess of cats, and a goddess of the Sun, fertility, music and fun.
Bast is a goddess I work with in my own spiritual practice. I’ve felt drawn to her since I first saw the regal-looking Egyptian black cat statues so many associate with her. Also, I’ve always loved cats, both big and small. It only makes sense that I would dedicate space for Bast in my life.
Bast takes the form of a cat-headed woman, also referred to as Bastet. Earlier on there were depictions of a similar goddess with a lioness head, thought to be one and the same. Later, the two became completely separate goddesses. Sekhmet became known as the fierce warrior goddess and Bast was known as the benevolent and domestic-focused goddess.
