What is mafdet?

Mafdet is an ancient Egyptian goddess who was primarily associated with justice, law, and protection. She is often depicted as a lion-headed woman or as a feline with a woman's head. Mafdet was seen as a protector of the pharaoh and a guardian of the dead. She was believed to protect against venomous snakes and scorpions, and was also associated with the judgment of the dead in the afterlife.

Mafdet was one of the earliest deities in Egyptian mythology, dating back to the predynastic period. She was often depicted as a fierce and powerful goddess, capable of defending against any threats. Although not as widely worshipped as other Egyptian deities such as Isis or Osiris, Mafdet held an important role in the religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians.

In art and sculpture, Mafdet is usually depicted with the head of a lion or a feline, often carrying a knife or a scepter as symbols of her power and authority. She is sometimes shown wearing the Red Crown of Lower Egypt, which symbolizes her association with justice and law. Mafdet was revered as a powerful and protective deity, and her presence was believed to bring both physical and spiritual protection to those who worshipped her.