Roles and responsibilities

1. Protection: Bastet was considered the protector of homes and families, especially women and children. She was invoked for protection against disease and evil.

2. Fertility and Motherhood: Bastet was the goddess of fertility and motherhood. She was revered by women who hoped for a safe birth and healthy children.

3. Music and Dance: Bastet was associated with music, dance and festivities. She was often depicted with a sistrum, a musical instrument used in her rituals.

Interesting for Believers

Bastet believers performed various rituals and practices to honor and worship this beloved goddess. Here are some activities that were of interest to her followers:

1. Amulets and Figurines: Believers wore amulets and effigies of Bastet to protect them and to receive her blessings. These amulets were often made in the shape of cats and were considered powerful protectors.

2. Prayer and Sacrifices: Believers brought offerings of food, drink, and flowers to the temples of Bastet and prayed for her protection and guidance, both in this life and in the next. They asked for her blessings in the areas of love, fertility, and health.

3. Holidays and Festivals: One of the most important festivals in honor of Bastet was the Feast of Bastet in Bubastis. During this festival, people gathered in large numbers to feast, dance, and make offerings to the goddess. This festival was known for its joyful and exuberant atmosphere.

4. Cat worship: Cats were considered sacred to Bastet and were often revered by the ancient Egyptians. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was severely punished. Cats were often mummified and buried as offerings to Bastet.

5. Funeral rites: As with other important gods, statues and symbols of Bastet played a role in the funeral rites. Her presence was seen as a protection and guidance for the deceased in the afterlife.