Bast (Bastet) is an Egyptian goddess associated with protection, love, joy, music and dance. She is an Eye of Ra, an agent and protector of the sun-god.

Bast was originally worshipped in Lower Egypt but was eventually honored throughout the land. She had a particular center of worship in the city of Bubastis (Per-Bast).

Bast is depicted here as a woman with the head of a cat. She carries a sistrum, a musical instrument, in one hand and the ankh, a symbol of life, in the other.

In her earliest representations Bast was shown with the head of a lioness. She can also be depicted in the full form of a cat.

Bast, devouring lady, mistress of truth and light,
preserver of the family, I praise and honor you.