Cats have been present in various myths and legends since ancient times. Did you know that?
Despite being capricious and independent, cats often reveal surprising expressions in stories, such as being majestic, divine, or even frightening.
In this article, we will introduce myths and legends related to cats.
Table of Contents
1. Cats in Mythology
∟ 1-1. Egyptian Mythology
∟ 1-2. Norse Mythology
∟ 1-3. Greek Mythology
2. Cats in Legends [Europe and the Middle East]
∟ 2-1. Noah's Ark
∟ 2-2. Devil Cat of Lake Geneva
∟ 2-3. Cait Sith
3. Cats in Legends [Eastern Edition]
∟ 3-1. Holy Cat Shin
∟ 3-2. Golden Flower Cat
∟ 3-3. Cat Deity
Conclusion
1. Cats in Mythology
The noble and mysterious appearance of cats adds charm to mythology. First, let's explore some myths featuring cats.
1-1. Egyptian Mythology
When it comes to cat gods, the famous one is Bastet from Egyptian mythology. Originally a fierce goddess in the form of a lioness, Bastet transformed into a gentle goddess with the appearance of a cat, protecting humans from illness and evil spirits.
Bastet was depicted with the face of a cat or as a slender woman with a cat's face. Similar to the Egyptian goddess Hathor, Bastet was associated with fertility, abundance, music, and dance.
The belief that Bastet was a goddess of fertility is linked to the idea that the model cat she was based on gave birth to many kittens. Therefore, followers of Bastet would dedicate cat statues and offerings in temples, wishing for prosperity in offspring.
Additionally, Bastet symbolized the moon. This is related to the myth that Bastet was born from the left eye of the sun god Ra. She represented the "other eye" of Ra, illuminating the night as the moon counterpart to the shining sun during the day.
1-2. Norse Mythology
In Norse mythology, cats pull the chariot of the fertility goddess Freyja. The two cats are named "Bygul" and "Trjegul," meaning "honey" and "amber" in Old Norse.
While Freyja's primary sacred animal is the boar, cats also hold significance as one of her sacred animals. Placing a bowl of milk in the yard is believed to bring good fortune and a prosperous union, according to Norse folklore.
Moreover, if a cat appears at a wedding, it is said to bring success to the marriage.
Freyja, in addition to being a goddess of fertility, blesses lovers and safeguards marriages. The cats associated with Freyja are thought to possess powers related to good fortune and marriage.
1-3. Greek Mythology
In Greek mythology, gods could transform into various forms. Even the king of gods, Zeus, transformed into a white bull or a black eagle when visiting the mortal realm, and these forms are depicted in constellations like Taurus and Aquila.
Zeus's daughter, the moon goddess Artemis, could transform into a cat. This is believed to be due to the identification of Artemis with the Egyptian goddess Bastet.
As mentioned earlier, Bastet and Artemis both symbolize the moon. Additionally, Artemis, while similar to Bastet, took a vow of eternal virginity and is portrayed as a brave goddess running through the forest with nymphs.
Her graceful and dignified appearance is truly cat-like.
2. Cats in Legends [Europe and the Middle East]
Cats were brought to Europe and the Middle East by Phoenician traders. Their presence became the subject of various legends and stories.
2-1. Noah's Ark
It is said that cats are still seeking opportunities to board the ark, and that's why they often stare at the sky with a yearning gaze.
2-2. Devil Cat of Lake Geneva
Legend has it that there is a devil cat living near Lake Geneva in Switzerland. This cat, black as night, is believed to be a demon in feline form.
It is said that the devil cat has the power to curse people. Those who encounter the devil cat are said to be plagued by misfortune and calamity.
While this legend may have originated to explain the misfortunes of those living near Lake Geneva, it adds an air of mystery and caution to the local feline population.
2-3. Cait Sith
Cait Sith is a fairy cat in Celtic mythology. According to legend, Cait Sith is a large driver of a fairy bomoked the Ark, cats were not as cooperative as other animals, and this is said to be the reason for their independent and sometimes aloof nature.
The story suggests that the cat's behavior during the Ark incident influenced its character, making it a creature with both curious and independent traits.
Moreover, it is said that the sound of a cat washing its face is a sign of imminent rain, according to Scottish folklore.
< special meaning to cats in various cultures, and they continue to be a source of inspiration in art, literature, and folklore. Whether revered as divine beings or feared as symbols of superstition, cats have undeniably left their paw prints on the canvas of human imagination.
Next time you see a cat lounging lazily in the sun or stealthily prowling through the shadows, remember that behind those slitted eyes and twitching whiskers, there may be a touch of magic and mystery inherited from the rich tapestry of myths and legends
