Black cats have long been a subject of fascination and intrigue, with many myths, legends, and superstitions surrounding them throughout history. In ancient Egypt, they were particularly revered, with many stories and beliefs surrounding their supposed supernatural powers. These beliefs and stories have been passed down through the ages and have inspired many artists, poets, and writers.
Archaeological findings suggest that ancient Egyptian society held black cats in high esteem. Many artefacts have been discovered depicting black cats in various settings, including in commoners’ homes and the gods’ temples. They were often depicted in hieroglyphics and paintings, and they were also mummified, indicating the great importance placed on them in ancient Egyptian culture.
One of the most well-known legends about black cats in ancient Egypt is that they were considered sacred animals and associated with the goddess Bastet. According to Egyptian legend, Bastet was the goddess of home, fertility, and childbirth and black cats were believed to be her descendants. It was thought that owning a black cat would bring good luck to a household and protect it from evil spirits. It was believed that the goddess Bastet could take the form of a black cat, and it was also thought that the goddess would protect the household from fire and disease.
In ancient Egypt, owning a black cat was considered a good omen, and people would often keep a black cat in their homes, hoping to receive the goddess’ blessings. The goddess Bastet was also associated with protecting pregnant women and newborns. A black cat was believed to protect the mother and child from harm.
Another belief was that black cats had healing powers. They were thought to have the power to cure various illnesses and diseases, including the bubonic plague. Ancient Egyptians would often keep a black cat in their home in the hopes that it would protect them from these illnesses. They believed that the cat’s presence would keep evil spirits away and that its purring would have a soothing effect on the sick.
Additionally, black cats were thought to have the power to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. They were often depicted in amulets and charms, believed to protect against evil spirits and bring good luck to the wearer. Many of these amulets and talismans have been discovered in tombs and other archaeological sites, indicating the great importance placed on black cats in ancient Egyptian culture.
However, not all beliefs about black cats in ancient Egypt were positive. It was also believed that killing a black cat would bring bad luck, and it was considered a severe crime to harm one of these sacred animals. It was thought that the death of a black cat would cause great sorrow and bring bad luck to the community.
In ancient Egypt, black cats were also believed to have magical powers. It was thought that they could see into the future and predict the outcome of events. They were also believed to be able to communicate with the dead and were often depicted in funerary art.
Black cats were also associated with the goddess Sekhmet, the goddess of war. They were believed to have the power to protect soldiers in battle. They were often depicted in the company of the goddess, and it was thought that their presence would bring good luck to the soldiers and protect them from harm. They were also associated with the goddess Tefnut, the goddess of moisture and fertility. It was believed that the goddess would take the form of a black cat and watch over the fields and crops, ensuring a good harvest.
In conclusion, black cats have a long and rich history in ancient Egypt, where they were held in high esteem and believed to possess various supernatural powers. These fascinating creatures, associated with the goddesses Bastet, Sekhmet, and Tefnut, are thought to bring good luck, protection, and fertility to households and communities. Many artefacts and amulets depicting black cats have been discovered, further testament to their significance in ancient Egyptian culture. However, it was also believed that harming a black cat would bring bad luck, considered a severe crime. The beliefs and stories surrounding black cats in ancient Egypt continue to inspire and fascinate people today.
Atractivo este relato. Me entristece esta entrada.