Pagan Portals - Sekhmet - Lady of Flame, Eye of Ra

Sekhmet was ancient Egypt's leonine Netjerret (Goddess) who embodied incarnate female power, bringing plague and pestilence, healing, and protection to her followers. This book explores her Egyptian origins, mythology, character, and worship, combining Egyptological research and contemporary Pagan perspectives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2022
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing

An invitation to come face to face with the incarnate female power of ancient Egypt.

Sekhmet, the leonine Netjerret (Goddess) of ancient Egypt, embodied the epitome of incarnate female power. As the protector and healer of her followers, she brought forth plagues and pestilence upon the land, yet also bestowed upon them healing and protection. From her ancient origins to the present day, countless individuals have been captivated by Sekhmet's fierce image and unyielding destructive powers.

This book delves into the Egyptian origins of Sekhmet, exploring her mythology, character, and worship. By combining Egyptological research with contemporary Pagan perspectives, it offers a comprehensive examination of this captivating deity.

Sekhmet's origins can be traced back to the ancient Egyptian civilization, where she was revered as a powerful deity associated with war and destruction. She was often depicted as a fierce lioness, with a headdress adorned with the sun disk and a cobra wrapped around her neck. According to mythology, Sekhmet was responsible for the devastation caused by the Nile River's annual flooding, which was seen as a necessary cleansing process. However, she also played a crucial role in healing and rejuvenation, particularly during times of drought and famine.

One of Sekhmet's most notable characteristics was her association with blood and violence. She was known to be extremely wrathful and vengeful, particularly towards those who dared to cross her or harm her followers. Sekhmet was often depicted in battle, wielding her sword and shield, and causing chaos and destruction in her wake. However, she was also capable of immense compassion and healing, particularly when it came to the injured and sick.

Sekhmet's mythology is rich and complex, with numerous stories and legends recounting her actions and relationships with other deities and mortals. One of the most famous stories involves her confrontation with the god Set, who was attempting to overthrow the rule of the pharaoh. Sekhmet defeated Set in battle, causing him to flee and seek refuge in the desert. In her wrath, Sekhmet pursued Set and eventually caught up with him, tearing him apart with her bare hands and drinking his blood.

Despite her fierce reputation, Sekhmet was also deeply revered and worshipped by many in ancient Egypt. She was believed to have the power to heal and protect, and her followers would seek her out for guidance and assistance in times of need. Sekhmet was often associated with fertility and childbirth, and her worship was particularly prevalent during pregnancy and childbirth. Women would offer sacrifices to her, pray to her for a safe and healthy pregnancy, and even wear amulets and talismans believed to have her protective powers.

In modern times, Sekhmet continues to be a popular and influential deity in the Pagan community. She is often invoked in rituals and ceremonies related to healing, protection, and transformation. Many Pagans see Sekhmet as a symbol of female empowerment and strength, and her image is often used in artwork and jewelry to express these themes.

In conclusion, Sekhmet, the incarnate female power of ancient Egypt, has left an indelible mark on the world's cultural and religious heritage. From her ancient origins to the present day, she has fascinated and inspired countless individuals with her fierce image and uncompromising destructive powers. This book offers a comprehensive exploration of Sekhmet's Egyptian origins, mythology, character, and worship, providing a deeper understanding of this captivating deity and her enduring significance.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789047134