Story Summary
Discover the myth of Sekhmet the Lioness, the fierce Egyptian goddess sent by Ra to punish humanity, and the clever plan involving red beer used to save the world.
When the sun god Ra grew old, mankind began to plot against him. Infuriated by their insolence, Ra dispatched his Eye, the goddess Hathor, to punish the rebels. Upon reaching earth, Hathor transformed into the terrifying lioness Sekhmet. Her fury was so immense that she began a slaughter that turned the Nile red. Realizing that Sekhmet’s bloodlust would soon leave him with no subjects to rule, Ra grew fearful and sought a way to stop her. He ordered his priests to brew seven thousand jars of beer and mix it with red ochre until it resembled blood. They flooded the fields with the liquid under the cover of night. At dawn, Sekhmet returned to finish her kill. Seeing the red fields, she drank deeply, believing it to be the blood of her enemies. Intoxicated and weary, she fell into a deep sleep, her rage finally extinguished. When she awoke, her bloodlust had vanished, and humanity was spared from total destruction.
The Moral
Destructive rage must be balanced with wisdom and moderation, for unchecked anger can destroy the innocent alongside the guilty.
“Her thirst for blood was unquenchable, until it was met with the wisdom of the gods.”
Fun Fact
Despite her reputation for destruction, Sekhmet was the patroness of physicians and her priests were considered the first doctors in ancient Egypt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Ra send Sekhmet to earth?
Ra sent Sekhmet to Earth as a divine punishment for humanity because they had become rebellious and stopped showing him the respect he deserved as he aged.
How did the Egyptians stop Sekhmet?
The gods tricked her by dyeing seven thousand jars of beer red with ochre; Sekhmet drank the liquid thinking it was blood and fell into a deep, peaceful sleep.
What is Sekhmet the goddess of?
Sekhmet is the ancient Egyptian goddess of war, fire, and destruction, known for her fierce protective nature and her role as the 'Eye of Ra'.
Was Sekhmet considered good or evil?
She was not considered evil, but rather a force of righteous fury and justice. While she was terrifying in her anger, she was also revered as a powerful healer and protector.
What is the relationship between Sekhmet and Hathor?
In many myths, they are two aspects of the same deity. Hathor represents the gentle, loving aspects of femininity, while Sekhmet represents its fierce and destructive power.
Why is beer significant in the story of Sekhmet?
Beer was the medium used to pacify her bloodlust. To commemorate this, ancient Egyptians celebrated a 'Feast of Intoxication' where they drank beer to ensure the goddess remained calm.