An Overview of the Nature and Functions of the Bovine Goddess Sematweret in the Old Kingdom

Résumé

This paper presents an analysis of the Old Kingdom Pyramid Texts that refer to the aurochs-deity Sematweret. This study will consider the writing of her name, her physical attributes and the actions in which she is involved, mainly as the mother of the deceased. For a better understanding of this deity, it is also relevant to examine the relationship with other female deities, such as Nekhbet or the White Crown, and with divinities that appear alongside her, like the goddess Hewenetweret or the god Semawer. The observation of all the elements linked to her is a perfect example of the fluidity of ancient Egyptian myths, and could even indicate the fusion of mythic references in the composition of PT 703 and PT 548, as well as the attribution of some aspects to Nut at an undetermined date prior to the reign of Pepy I.