The Kemetic Path
Bes
Protector of Households, Defender Against Evil Spirits
Pronounced bes
Domains
household protection · childbirth · joy · music · dance · warding evil · fertility · domestic harmony · festivity · protection of children
Who is Bes?
Bes is a deity unique in the Egyptian pantheon due to his dwarf-like appearance and significant role in the intimate aspects of daily life. Unlike the more formal gods whose worship centered around temples and state rituals, Bes was ubiquitous in private homes. His representation, often depicted as a dwarf with a lion-like visage, served as a protective presence against malevolent spirits and misfortune. Bes is particularly associated with the protection of mothers and children, often appearing on items related to childbirth and family life, such as beds and mirrors.
Primary sources such as the 'Book of the Dead' and various temple reliefs illustrate his role as a guardian who vigorously warded off evil through his fearsome appearance and joyful demeanor (Book of the Dead, Chapter 157). His fierce countenance was believed to scare away evil spirits, while his association with music and dance spread joy and fertility. As a god of music and dance, Bes is often depicted playing instruments, leading to his involvement in festivals and celebrations.
Bes' connection to fertility and childbirth is well-documented. He was invoked during childbirth to protect both the mother and the newborn. This role is evident in the magical spells and amulets bearing his image, meant to protect against the dangers that could befall a mother and child during and after birth (Papyrus Harris I). The presence of Bes on cosmetic jars and mirrors reflects his association with beauty and love, enhancing the joy and harmony within domestic life.
Despite his comical and approachable appearance, Bes' role as a warrior should not be underestimated. He was called upon as a fighter, a protector who would not hesitate to confront chaos and disorder. His image was often placed at the entrances of homes and on household items to provide constant vigilance against evil influences.
In essence, Bes embodies the everyday divine, bridging the sacred and the mundane. He offers protection, joy, and celebration, making him a beloved figure in ancient Egyptian society and a significant deity in the personal spiritual practices of Egyptians.
The Myths — cited to the sources
Bes Protects the Household
Papyrus Harris I
In this tale, Bes is depicted as a fierce protector of the household, keeping evil spirits at bay with his terrifying visage and joyful demeanor. He lurks in the shadows, ready to leap out at any malevolent entity that dares to intrude. His presence ensures the safety of the family, especially during the vulnerable times of childbirth and sleep.
The Dance of Bes
Temple reliefs in Dendera
The myth describes how Bes, through his dance, could invoke joy and laughter, dispelling sorrow and inviting abundance. His movements were said to be so infectious that they could melt the hardest of hearts, bringing happiness and prosperity to those who witnessed them.
Bes and the Birth of Horus
Temple of Edfu inscriptions
Bes plays a crucial role in the birth of Horus, where he stands guard over Isis, ensuring no harm comes to her or her son during this critical moment. His protection is essential to the safe delivery and the subsequent upbringing of Horus, highlighting his protective nature.
Correspondences
Domains
household protection · childbirth · joy · music · dance · warding evil · fertility · domestic harmony · festivity · protection of children
Symbols
lion mask · feathered headdress · musical instruments · knives · amulets · mirrors · cosmetic jars
Sacred Animals
lion · cat
Sacred Plants
lotus · papyrus
Offerings
music and dance performances · small figurines · amulets · flowers · incense · cosmetic offerings · colorful fabrics · jewelry · ritual chants · food offerings · songs of joy · protective charms
Also Known As
Bisu (variant used in certain regions) · Aha (another name signifying 'fighter')
How Bes is worshipped
To honor Bes, practitioners can create a small altar in their home dedicated to his images and symbols. This can include statuettes or images of Bes, small musical instruments, and objects that symbolize joy and protection, such as feathers or colorful fabrics. Offerings can include music and dance performances, which are particularly pleasing to Bes. Engaging in joyful activities in his name, like playing music or dancing, is an authentic way to worship him. Practitioners may also wear or carry amulets bearing his likeness to invoke his protection. Recite prayers or chants that call upon Bes to guard against evil and bring happiness into the household. The presence of Bes is best felt in everyday life, so incorporating his imagery into household items can serve as a continuous reminder of his protective aura.
How do I start honoring Bes?
For newcomers to Bes, it is important to understand his central role in the household and daily life. Begin by recognizing his symbols and placing them in your living spaces as a means of inviting his presence. Engage in music and dance as acts of worship and protection. Remember, Bes is a deity of joy and protection—approach him with a light heart and a smile. Whether you seek protection, joy, or success in childbirth and family matters, invoking Bes can bring positive energy and a protective shield over your home.
A prayer to Bes
Oh Bes, Guardian of the Home, with your mighty visage, ward off all evil. Bring joy and laughter, protect us from harm, and bless our household with your presence.
Festival days
- Festival of Bes (Season of the Harvest)
- Feast of Drunkenness (linked with Hathor celebrations)
- New Year's Festival (bringing protection into the new year)
What people get wrong about Bes
- Bes is often mistaken as purely a jester god due to his appearance, but he is also a fierce protector against evil.
- Some think Bes is only concerned with childbirth, yet his domain extends to all household protection and joy.
- Bes is sometimes assumed to be a minor deity, but his widespread presence in homes indicates his major role in daily life.
- It is believed Bes is solely an Egyptian god, but he was also revered in other cultures like the Phoenicians.
- People often think Bes is always depicted dancing, but he is also shown in fierce stances ready to combat evil.
Also on this path
Questions & Answers
Questions about Bes
What is the god Bes and what role does he play in daily life?
Bes is a dwarf Neter — cheerful, grotesque, fierce — associated with the protection of households, childbirth, music, dance, and the driving away of evil spirits. Unlike the formal, stately iconography of most Netjeru, Bes is depicted face-on (extremely rare in Egyptian art), sticking out his tongue, sometimes dancing or playing a tambourine. His image was placed on headrests, beds, cosmetic vessels, and near birthing rooms. Bes was one of the most popular deities among common people, a guardian of everyday joy and domestic safety. His apotropaic power came from his frightening appearance, which scared away malevolent forces (Archaeological evidence; household artifacts).
How do I honor Bes in Kemetic practice?
Bes, the dwarf protector god, guards homes, mothers, and children from evil spirits. Unlike most Egyptian gods, Bes was depicted facing forward rather than in profile — he confronts danger head-on. Place his distinctive grimacing image on your shrine or above doorways for household protection. Offer beer, bread, honey, and music — Bes loves tambourines and drums. Burn incense that fills the room, driving away negativity. Bes is the most approachable and protective of the netjeru — he asks only that you let him stand guard. His fierce face scares away what would harm you, while his dwarfed body dances with joy at the threshold of your safety.
How do Bes and the Norse house spirits compare?
Bes, the dwarf protector god of Egyptian households, guards families from evil spirits, aids in childbirth, and brings joy through music and dance. Norse household spirits—the tomte or nisse in Scandinavian folklore, and the disir and alfar in older tradition—similarly protect the home and family. Both traditions recognize that divine protection operates at the household level, not just the cosmic. The gods who guard your home are as important as the gods who rule the heavens.