Egyptian Goddess Sekhmet

Sekhmet is one of the oldest known Egyptian deities. Her name is derived from the Egyptian word “Sekhem” (which means “power” or “might”) and is often translated as the “Powerful One” or “She who is Powerful”. She is depicted as a lion-headed woman, sometimes with the addition of a sun disc on her head.

Sekhmet is the daughter of the sun god, Ra, and is among the more important of the goddesses in the Egyptian Pantheon. Sekhmet acted as the vengeful manifestation of Ra's power, the Eye of Ra. Sekhmet is said to breathe fire, and the hot winds of the desert were likened to her breath. She is also called upon to ward off disease and heal the sick.

Sekhmet is the most represented deity inEgyptian collections worldwide. Many amulets depict her image and her numerous statues abound in Egyptian art. Her lasting presence testifies to the historical and cultural importance of this goddess.

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