The Egyptian goddess of nature is Nut, also known as Nwt in Ancient Egyptian and Ⲛⲉ in Coptic. She holds a significant place in the ancient Egyptian religion, being associated with the sky, stars, cosmos, mothers, astronomy, and the universe. Depicted in various forms, she is often represented as a star-covered nude woman arching over the Earth or as a cow.
In ancient Egyptian mythology, Nut is considered the daughter of Shu, the god of air, and Tefnut, the goddess of moisture. She is also the sister and wife of Geb, the god of the Earth. Nut is believed to have given birth to Osiris, Isis, Seth, and Nephthys, who are prominent deities in Egyptian mythology.
One of the most prominent aspects of Nut’s role is her association with the sky. She is often depicted as a vast, overarching figure, stretching across the heavens, with her body adorned with stars. This representation symbolizes the belief that Nut was the canopy of the sky, encompassing and protecting the Earth. It was believed that the sun god, Ra, traveled across Nut’s body during the day, only to be swallowed by her at night and reborn at dawn.
Nut’s association with the sky and stars also ties her closely to the concept of the cosmos and the universe. In ancient Egyptian cosmology, the sky was seen as a physical manifestation of Nut, while the Earth represented Geb. The daily cycle of the sun rising and setting was seen as Nut swallowing and rebirthing Ra, symbolizing the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Furthermore, Nut’s role as a mother figure is also significant. She is often depicted as a protective and nurturing deity, watching over and embracing the Earth and its inhabitants. Nut’s association with motherhood and fertility is closely tied to her role in giving birth to Osiris, Isis, Seth, and Nephthys, who played crucial roles in Egyptian mythology.
The worship of Nut was widespread in ancient Egypt, and her imagery can be found in various temples and tombs. She was revered as a powerful and benevolent goddess, with her influence extending to aspects of daily life such as agriculture, fertility, and the cycles of nature.
Nut is the Egyptian goddess of nature, symbolizing the sky, stars, cosmos, mothers, astronomy, and the universe. Her representation as a star-covered nude woman or a cow highlights her role as the protective canopy of the sky. Nut’s association with the sky, stars, and motherhood reflects the ancient Egyptians’ deep reverence for nature and the interconnectedness of all aspects of life.