What did the owners do in ancient Egypt in mourning for their cats? - briefly
In ancient Egypt, cat owners demonstrated their grief through elaborate rituals and offerings. They often shaved off their eyebrows as a sign of mourning and provided their deceased pets with lavish burials, including mummification and the provision of food and toys for the afterlife.
What did the owners do in ancient Egypt in mourning for their cats? - in detail
In ancient Egypt, cats were revered not only as pets but also as sacred animals associated with the goddess Bastet. When a cat died, its owners undertook several significant practices to honor and mourn their feline companions.
Firstly, the body of the deceased cat was often mummified, much like human remains. This process involved careful wrapping in linen bandages and the use of resins and other preservatives. The mummification not only prepared the cat for its journey to the afterlife but also demonstrated the deep respect and devotion the owners had for their pets.
Secondly, a period of mourning was observed by the family. This involved shaving off one's eyebrows as a sign of grief, similar to the practices observed during human bereavement. The mourning period could last several days, allowing time for reflection and the performance of necessary rituals.
Thirdly, the owners would create elaborate tombs or burial sites for their cats. These tombs often included inscriptions and offerings, such as food, water, and even small statues or figurines of the deceased cat. The intention was to provide comfort and sustenance for the cat's spirit in the afterlife.
Additionally, some owners would commission professional artists to create portraits of their beloved cats. These portraits were often highly detailed and served as a lasting memorial to the pet. The images could be placed in the cat's tomb or displayed prominently within the owner's home.
The ancient Egyptians also held communal mourning rituals and festivals dedicated to cats, particularly those associated with Bastet. During these events, people would gather to honor and remember their deceased pets, further emphasizing the importance of cats in Egyptian society.
In summary, the owners in ancient Egypt demonstrated a profound level of devotion and respect for their cats through practices such as mummification, mourning rituals, elaborate burials, and the creation of lasting memorials. These actions reflected the deep emotional bond between humans and cats in that culture.