Hathor

Culture: Ancient Egyptian   Domain: Love, joy, music, motherhood, the sky

Hathor, often shown as a cow or cow-horned woman, is one of Egypt's most beloved and widely worshipped goddesses, associated with music, dance, love, intoxication and genuine joy; her major temple at Dendera was a major pilgrimage site, and she was honored as both a nurturing mother figure and a goddess of unrestrained celebration.

Associations

Love, joy and celebration, music and dance, motherhood, generous hospitality.

Ways people honor her (modern)

• Make music, dance, or celebrate life deliberately and without self-consciousness
• Practice generous hospitality toward guests
• Keep a small bell or sistrum on the altar
• Read about her major temple and festivals at Dendera

Approach any deity with respect and do your own research. Practices vary widely between traditions, and modern devotional practice often goes beyond what survives in ancient sources.