Bast, or Bastet, was originally a lion headed goddess. She was a daughter of the sun god and a national deity of protection. She became tamer as a cat woman, sometimes with a lion decorating her breastplate as a reminder of her former, wilder self. She was the Egyptian goddess of joy, music, celebration, dancing, and pleasure. To take part in a celebration at her temple in Bubastis, ensured the mental and physical health of the participants.

Honoring live domesticated cats was also important to Bast's followers.A vast cat cemetery has been uncovered in Bubastis. Mummifying one's pet was considered homage to this playful, free spirited goddess.

This image was published in 2004 by Hay House as part of a goddess oracle deck by Dr. Doreen Virtue. You can discover more about Dr. Virtue's work here.