Egyptian MythologyGods and Goddesses

Isis and the Seven Scorpions

Goddess Isis saves a child from scorpion venom, proving mercy is more powerful than any sting.

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Illustration for Isis and the Seven Scorpions - a gods and goddesses Egyptian Mythology story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Discover the myth of Isis and the Seven Scorpions, where the Egyptian goddess of magic teaches a wealthy woman about mercy, humility, and the power of healing.

Fleeing the wrath of the dark god Set, Isis sought refuge in the Nile Delta to protect her infant son, Horus. Seven divine scorpions—Tefen, Befen, Mestet, Mestetef, Petet, Thetet, and Matet—were sent to guard her journey. One evening, weary from travel, Isis approached the mansion of a wealthy noblewoman, seeking a place to rest. Seeing the scorpions, the woman slammed her door in fear and pride. A humble fisherwoman, however, opened her modest hut and offered the goddess sanctuary. Enraged by the noblewoman's cruelty, the scorpions combined their venom into Tefen, who crept into the mansion and stung the noblewoman’s young son. When the noblewoman cried out in despair as her child lay dying, the compassionate Isis could not bear the grief. Using her secret magic, she commanded the poison to flow out of the boy, restoring his life. Humbled and repentant, the noblewoman brought all her riches to the fisherwoman’s hut, honoring the goddess who chose mercy over vengeance.

The Moral

Compassion and humility are greater than wealth, and true divinity is found in showing mercy even to those who have wronged us.

“O poison, come forth from this child and fall upon the ground!”

Fun Fact

This myth was often inscribed on healing statues called 'cippi' in ancient Egypt; it was believed that reciting the story could magically cure real-life scorpion stings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Isis and the Seven Scorpions?

The story teaches that wealth does not excuse cruelty and that mercy is a divine virtue. It highlights the importance of hospitality and the consequences of prideful behavior.

Who were the seven scorpions?

They were divine protectors named Tefen, Befen, Mestet, Mestetef, Petet, Thetet, and Matet. They were sent to guard Isis while she was hiding her son Horus from the god Set.

Why did the scorpions sting the boy?

The scorpions were insulted when a wealthy woman refused to give Isis shelter. They pooled their venom to punish the woman's pride by targeting her child.

How did Isis heal the child?

Isis used her powerful magic and secret names of power to command the poison to leave the boy's body. She chose to save him because she felt pity for the mother's genuine grief.

What happened to the wealthy woman at the end?

Overcome with gratitude and guilt, the woman gave her riches to the poor fisherwoman who had welcomed Isis. She learned that kindness and humility are more valuable than gold.

Where does this story take place?

The legend is set in the marshes of the Nile Delta. It occurs during the period when Isis was a fugitive, protecting her child Horus from his murderous uncle, Set.