In ancient Egypt, childbirth was a significant event, and the expectant mother needed all the protection and assistance she could get. One of the most important deities associated with childbirth was Tawaret, the goddess with the head of a hippopotamus. Commonly depicted as a powerful and fierce protector of mothers and infants, Tawaret played a crucial role in ancient Egyptian mythology and religious practices.
The origin of Tawaret is a bit unclear, as her exact origins are unknown. However, she is believed to have emerged from the Nile River delta region around the middle to late New Kingdom period (c. 1550-1069 BCE). Tawaret appears in the form of a hippopotamus, a creature that was both feared and respected by the ancient Egyptians. The hippopotamus was known to be a dangerous animal, capable of attacking humans and boats that ventured too close to its territory. Despite its fearsome reputation, the hippopotamus was also associated with fertility and protection. Its image and symbolism were therefore used in a positive light by the ancient Egyptians, who associated it with Tawaret, the protective goddess of childbirth.
Tawaret was often depicted as a combination of various animal forms, with the body of a pregnant or nursing hippopotamus, the limbs and tail of a lion, and the breasts and hair of a human woman. This amalgamation of different animals and human features symbolized Tawaret’s protective and nurturing aspects. Her fierce appearance was meant to ward off evil spirits and protect the mother and her newborn child from harm.
In ancient Egyptian mythology, Tawaret was closely associated with the goddess Hathor, who was the goddess of love, music, and motherhood. Tawaret was often portrayed as the consort of the god Bes, a dwarf god who was also regarded as a protective deity. Together, Tawaret and Bes formed a powerful duo that guarded against malevolent forces that sought to harm pregnant women and infants. Tawaret was especially revered by women who were expecting or who had recently given birth, as she was believed to provide them with strength and protection during a vulnerable time.
One of the most well-known myths involving Tawaret is the story of the birth of Horus, the son of the goddess Isis and the god Osiris. According to the myth, Osiris was murdered by his brother Set, who sought to usurp the throne of Egypt. Isis, Osiris’s wife and sister, was devastated by his death but managed to bring him back to life temporarily to conceive a child with him. Isis gave birth to Horus, the falcon-headed god of kingship and the sky, after a difficult and dangerous pregnancy. Tawaret was said to have helped Isis during her pregnancy and protected her from harm, allowing her to successfully give birth to Horus. Tawaret was also believed to have assisted Isis in nurturing and raising Horus in his early years, ensuring that he grew up to become a powerful and righteous king.
In addition to her role in fertility and childbirth, Tawaret was also associated with protection and healing. She was often invoked by women seeking protection from illness or danger, as well as by those hoping to conceive or have a safe delivery. Tawaret was also believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and malevolent forces, making her a popular deity among the common people who sought her assistance in times of need.
Tawaret’s popularity and importance can be seen in the numerous amulets, statues, and other religious objects found in ancient Egyptian tombs and temples. These items were meant to provide protection and assistance to the deceased in the afterlife, ensuring that they had a safe journey to the realm of the gods. Tawaret’s image was often included on these objects, along with inscriptions and spells invoking her name and power.
Despite her fearsome appearance, Tawaret was regarded as a gentle and benevolent deity who cared deeply for women and children. She was seen as a powerful protector and nurturer, someone who would go to great lengths to ensure the safety and well-being of those under her care. Tawaret’s role in ancient Egyptian mythology and religious practices highlights the importance of childbirth and motherhood in ancient Egyptian society, as well as the reverence and respect accorded to those who helped women through the challenges of pregnancy and childbirth.
In conclusion, Tawaret, the hippopotamus-headed goddess of childbirth in ancient Egypt, played a crucial role in protecting and assisting mothers and infants during pregnancy and childbirth. Her fierce appearance and protective nature made her a popular deity among women seeking safety and assistance during a vulnerable time. Tawaret’s association with the hippopotamus, a creature known for its strength and fertility, further emphasized her role in promoting successful pregnancies and safe deliveries. Through her myths, images, and religious objects, Tawaret was revered and worshipped by the ancient Egyptians as a powerful and benevolent guardian of mothers and children.
