Why did the pharaohs have cats? - briefly
The pharaohs revered cats for their ability to protect grain stores from rodents and associated them with divine protection, particularly the goddess Bastet, symbolizing fertility and home.
Why did the pharaohs have cats? - in detail
The ancient Egyptians revered cats for their multifaceted significance in both practical and spiritual domains. Cats were highly valued for their ability to control pests, particularly rodents, which threatened grain stores essential for the survival of the civilization. This practical utility elevated their status, making them indispensable in households and granaries. Beyond their role as protectors of food supplies, cats were deeply intertwined with Egyptian religion and mythology. They were associated with the goddess Bastet, who symbolized home, fertility, and protection. Bastet, often depicted as a lioness or a woman with a cat’s head, was a beloved deity whose worship was widespread. Cats were seen as her earthly manifestations, embodying her grace, strength, and nurturing qualities. The Egyptians believed that harming a cat, even accidentally, could incur divine wrath, leading to severe consequences. This reverence extended to the afterlife, where cats were often mummified and buried alongside their owners to ensure companionship and protection in the journey to the next world. The pharaohs, as the intermediaries between the gods and the people, upheld this cultural and religious significance by keeping cats in their courts. Their presence in royal households symbolized divine favor and reinforced the pharaoh’s role as a protector of Ma’at, the cosmic order. The bond between the pharaohs and cats was thus a reflection of their intertwined roles in maintaining both earthly and spiritual harmony.