Story Summary
Discover how the dwarf god Bes Protects Children in Egyptian Mythology. Learn how this fierce yet joyful deity wards off evil spirits to keep every home safe.
In the homes of ancient Egypt, from the grandest palaces to the simplest mud-brick huts, a peculiar figure stood guard. He was Bes, a dwarf god with a lion’s mane, a protruding tongue, and a stout belly. While other gods ruled the heavens or the underworld, Bes took his station at the bedside of the vulnerable. When a child cried in the night, it was said that Bes was there, dancing wildly and clashing his cymbals to frighten the shadows. He did not use elegant spells or distant majesty; he used laughter, noise, and his own frightening appearance to scare away the invisible demons of sickness and the slithering cobras of the desert. To the children, he was not a monster, but a joyful uncle whose fierce face was a shield against the dark. By day, he presided over music and dance, and by night, he held his knife aloft, ensuring that every mother and babe slept under the watchful eye of a protector who feared nothing.
The Moral
True strength is found in a joyful heart and the courage to stand between the innocent and the dark.
“His ugliness was not a curse, but a shield crafted from the very essence of protection and joy.”
Fun Fact
Bes is one of the few Egyptian deities consistently depicted facing forward rather than in profile, allowing him to watch for danger in every direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Bes Protects Children?
The story teaches that appearances can be deceiving and that true power lies in the willingness to protect others. It highlights the importance of joy and laughter as weapons against fear and negativity.
Who is Bes in Egyptian mythology?
Bes is the ancient Egyptian deity of households, music, dance, and protection. He is uniquely depicted as a bearded dwarf with feline features who wards off evil through humor and ferocity.
Why does Bes look scary if he is good?
Bes’s frightening appearance was designed specifically to scare away malevolent spirits and dangerous animals. His grotesque features served as a defensive mask to ensure that evil stayed far away from the home.
How did Bes protect babies from snakes?
Bes was often depicted strangling snakes or scaring them away with his weapons. Parents would place amulets or paintings of Bes near a child's bed to act as a spiritual deterrent against desert predators.
Was Bes a major god in ancient Egypt?
While he didn't have massive temples like Ra or Osiris, Bes was one of the most popular 'household' gods. His image appeared on beds, mirror handles, and cosmetic jars in almost every Egyptian home.
What symbols are associated with Bes?
Bes is commonly associated with the tambourine or drums, which he used to make noise to drive away spirits. He is also often seen holding a knife for protection and wearing a crown of ostrich feathers.
