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.
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