Ancient Egyptian Mythology

The Gods of Ancient Egypt...

TAWERET

Egyptian Childbirth Goddess

Also known as Taueret, Taurt, Thoeris, Thureris, Toeris

Picture of the Egyptian Childbirth Goddess Taweret from our Egyptian mythology image library. Illustration by Chas Saunders.

Hip hip Hippo Goddess of Maternity and Childbirth

Very popular with those expecting a blessed event, she comes in the form of a pregnant hippopotamus. That’s heavy. If you can picture a pregnant hipppo, just add breasts and a crocodile tail. (Make that several breasts — she was very well-endowed in that department.)

Possibly the wife of Sebek, she protects women and children. Her alternative name Thoeris appears to mean ‘Mistress of Talismans’ and she will look after you if you can arrange a talisman of her. Her Pregnancy Protection Service is second to none. Put a picture of her on your pillow for added protection during maternity. This will keep the demons away from you and your unborn.

There is a darker side to Taweret — she can pop up in the Underworld brandishing a knife. But don’t panic. According to the Book of the Dead, she only devours the wicked who are on the way to Hell. The deceased who were good in life are given her special nourishment. This must be for a taste of things to come.

Things don’t stop there – it would seem the constellation of Ursa Major may be under her control. Hippo Goddesses were highly popular in ancient Egypt and her fame spread under many monikers and much confusion of names. See Ipet for example.

When crocodiles come into the equation and you get Crocopotamuses and Hippodiles, we tend to take the rest of the day off.

Taweret Facts and Figures

Name: Taweret
Pronunciation: Coming soon
Alternative names: Taueret, Taurt, Thoeris, Thureris, Toeris

Gender: Female
Type: Goddess
Celebration or Feast Day: Unknown at present

Role:
In charge of: Birth
Area of expertise: Childbirth

Good/Evil Rating: Unknown at present
Popularity index: 8812

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Article last revised on November 11, 2018 by the Godchecker data dwarves.
Editors: Peter J. Allen, Chas Saunders

References: Coming soon.

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