Egyptian Gods

Soqdet also known as Sothis or occasionally as Sihor in Greek was one of the important goddess of star ‘Sirius’, the Dog star to ancient Egyptian astronomers. The name Sopdet means (she who is) sharp, a reference to the brightness of Sirius.

She signaled the approach of the annual Nile flooding began. This significance led the Egyptians to base their calendar on the heliacal rising of Sirius. It was noticed every year during July and Egyptians take this as indicator to start of the New Year.

This was celebrated by Egyptians by the festival known as “The Coming of Soqdet”. She also called the “bringer of the New Year and the Nile flood” consequently, Soqdet represent fertility which was brought to it by the Nile’s inundation.

Soqdet appearance portrayed as a woman with a five pointed star on her head. She also depicted as a woman wearing a tall crown and standing a star with five points on the top. Sometimes, she was shown as large dog.

As describe in Pyramid text, Soqdet was the daughter of Orisis. It also stated that Soqdet united with the king (Sahu – Osiris, which was Orion) and gives birth to the morning star (the planet Venus) and through her association she become increasingly associated with Isis. Sopdu was a falcon god who represents the planet Venus.

She also guides the king to the heavenly Field of Rushes, the Afterworld. In the Lamentations of Isis and Nephthys (4th Century BC papyrus), Isis identify herself as Soqdet and will follow Osiris, in his manifestation as Orion in heaven.

Soqdet was worshiped through Egyptian history and cult center was built at Qesem.