Tree Goddess

Khonsu-mes receives libation of food and drink from the tree goddess. The tree goddesses are usually associated with the namesake or manifestation of the goddesses Hathor, Isis or Nut. Hathor was often referred to as the “Lady of the Sycamore”.

Khonsu-mes receives libation of food and drink from the tree goddess. Papyrus of Khonsu-mes. 21st Dynasty, c. 1000 B.C. Thebes. Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria. Ägyptische Sammlung, INV 3859
Khonsu-mes receives libation of food and drink from the tree goddess. Papyrus of Khonsu-mes
21st Dynasty, c. 1000 B.C.
Thebes
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria. Ägyptische Sammlung, INV 3859

The sycamore tree held great significance in ancient Egyptian culture, believed to possess magical and protective qualities. The Lady of the Sycamore was often depicted as a female figure standing or sitting beneath a sycamore tree, with her arms raised in a gesture of nurturing and protection. She was believed to have the power to grant nourishment, healing, and protection to those who sought her aid.

Worship of the Lady of the Sycamore was particularly prevalent during the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt. People would make offerings and prayers to her, seeking her blessings for fertility, good health, and protection from harm.

Wife of Ramose drinks water with her hands, which likely being poured from a vessel by the Lady of the sycamore. The scene is sadly fragmented, but Ramose kneels before his wife, and a goddess can be seen in what appears to be a tree.
New Kingdom, 19th Dynasty, reign of Seti I, c.1290–1279 B.C.
From Spell 63A of the Book of the Dead of Ramose
Now at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge. E.2.1922

While the Lady of the Sycamore may not be as widely known as some other Egyptian deities, she played a significant role in the religious beliefs and practices of ancient Egyptians, particularly in relation to fertility, healing, and protection.

The sycamore tree, known as “nehet” in ancient Egypt, held cultural and religious significance in ancient Egyptian society. The sycamore tree held important iconography and status in Ancient Egypt, essentially known as the Tree of Life symbol, and would be depicted offering the deceased sustenance.

The Tree Goddess, or ‘Lady of the Sycamore’. She is usually identified with either Nut, Hathor or Isis. New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty ca. 1421-1413 BC. Tomb of Nakht (TT52), Sheikh Abd el-Qurna, West Thebes.
The Tree Goddess, or ‘Lady of the Sycamore’. She is usually identified with either Nut, Hathor or Isis. New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty ca. 1421-1413 BC. Tomb of Nakht (TT52), Sheikh Abd el-Qurna, West Thebes.

The sycamore tree provided shade and shelter in the hot Egyptian climate. It was often planted near temples, tombs, and sacred sites to offer respite from the sun and create a serene atmosphere.

The ancient Egyptians also utilized the sycamore tree for its medicinal properties. They believed that its leaves and fruits had healing properties and used them in various remedies. Additionally, the wood of the sycamore tree was used for construction, furniture, and crafting.