Mafdet

In Egyptian mythology, Mafdet (or Maftet) was an early panther-goddess, known as a destroyer of scorpions, snakes and other venomous animals. She was associated with cats and mongooses (both of which kill snakes) and was known to protect from the dangerous effects of snakebites.

Her name means “She Who Runs Swiftly.” Some of Mafdet’s titles were “Slayer of Serpents” and “Lady of the Castle of Life.” A very old deity, Mafdet was believed to represent the rule of law and final judgment; in fact, this goddess’ symbol was the executioner’s staff. Mafdet was said to “rip out the hearts of the transgressors of the Laws of Ma'at and deliver them personally to Ra and the pharaoh’s feet." In the early New Kingdom she was depicted as ruling over the Judgment Hall. Mafdet appears to be associated with the protection of the king's chambers and other sacred places.

She is depicted as a woman with the head of a Cheetah, Lynx, or Panther or as a woman dressed in a cat skin. Mafdet's braided hair sometimes ends in scorpion tails, presumably showing her dominance over venoms. Her cult was eventually replaced by that of Bast.