Sekhmet: The Lioness Who Could Destroy-and Restore the World

Sekhmet: The Lioness Who Could Destroy-and Restore the World

I have been finding out a little bit about the ancient Egyptian gods, and this time I want to talk about Sekhmet, who to me feels both terrifying and protective in equal measure.

In the earliest beliefs, Sekhmet was closely linked to the sun god Ra. She was often described as his daughter, and was said to have been created from his own power. When people turned away from him, it was Sekhmet who was sent to restore order.

She was usually depicted as a lioness, and that image alone says a lot. A lioness does not act without reason, but when she does, she is unstoppable. Sekhmet evolved to represent war, destruction, and the fierce heat of the sun at its most unforgiving.

But, Sekhmet was not just feared, she was also  respected and they even relied on her. Over time, she became associated with healing as well as harm. Priests of Sekhmet were known as skilled healers, and it was believed that the same power that could bring disease could also take it away.

One of the most powerful stories tells us of how her destruction became so great that even Ra feared that it would never end. To stop her, he tricked her into drinking red-coloured beer, which she thought was blood. As she drank it, her fury started to fade. It is a story that is relatable.  Emotions, like anger can take hold, and how we all at some time need to be brought back under control.

She represents to me, the intensity of emotion, the danger of losing control, but also the ability of restoration.

Do you think people feared Sekhmet more for her power to destroy, or respected her more for her ability to restore balance?

Image info:

The triad of Memphis, Ptah (father), Sekhmet (mother), and Nefertem (son)