Among ancient Egyptian deities, few were as universally beloved and intimately connected to daily life as Bes. This distinctive dwarf-like god, with his fierce yet protective countenance, served as the guardian of households, the protector of children, and the divine embodiment of joy, music, and celebration.
He was such a popular household deity in ancient Egypt that there are literally thousands of Bes artifacts left from ancient homes and tombs. I moved in February and have felt very close to Bes these last few months.
Unlike the remote and majestic gods of the great temples, Bes was a deity of the people—present in homes, invoked during childbirth, and celebrated in moments of merriment and dance.
The Origins and Evolution of Bes
Bes emerged in Egyptian religious practice during the Middle Kingdom (c. 2055-1650 BCE), though his worship reached its zenith during the New Kingdom and continued well into the Ptolemaic period.
Worship of Bes spread through the Roman empire when soldiers stationed in Egypt brought back his images. They even depicted him in Roman military garb. There are several fresco’s of Bes found in the Temple of Isis, in Pompeii.
His origins likely trace back to Nubian and sub-Saharan African traditions, representing a blending of Egyptian and southern African spiritual concepts. This multicultural heritage reflects the cosmopolitan nature of ancient Egypt and demonstrates how spiritual practices evolved through cultural exchange.
The name "Bes" itself may derive from the word "besa," meaning "to protect" or "to guard." However, it's important to note that "Bes" was sometimes used as a collective term for several related dwarf deities, including Aha ("the fighter"), Amam ("the devourer"), and others. These deities shared similar attributes and functions, often being grouped together under the Bes designation.
How could you not love him! This is Bes, Egyptian god of music, protection, pregnant women and babies.
Physical Appearance
Bes is immediately recognizable in Egyptian art due to his unique appearance, which stands in contrast to the typically idealized representations of other Egyptian deities. He is depicted as a dwarf with a large, bearded face, often showing his tongue sticking out, big eyes and ears, and a fierce expression that was meant to frighten away evil spirits. His body is typically stocky and muscular, with pronounced genitalia symbolizing fertility.
He is frequently shown wearing a feathered headdress or crown, sometimes adorned with ostrich plumes. His attire often includes a short tunic or kilt, and he may carry various implements including knives, swords, or musical instruments. Unlike most Egyptian deities who are shown in profile, Bes is typically depicted frontally, creating a direct and immediate connection with the viewer.
This frontal representation was intentional—it allowed Bes to make direct eye contact with anyone who looked upon his image, reinforcing his role as a protective guardian who was always watching over his charges. The fierce expression served as a warning to malevolent forces.
A great reference book on the Egyptian Pantheon is The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt
Why is Bes sometimes shown blue?
Bes is sometimes shown in blue because of the deep symbolic significance of the color blue in ancient Egyptian culture. Blue symbolized fertility, birth, rebirth and life in Egyptian art and religion, which aligns perfectly with Bes's role as a protector of childbirth, fertility, and household life.
The color blue held several important meanings that enhanced Bes's protective and life-giving attributes. Blue was the color of the heavens, the dominion of the gods. By depicting Bes in blue, artists emphasized his divine nature and connection to the heavenly realm.
The blue coloring of Bes figurines and amulets wasn't merely decorative—it was a deliberate choice that enhanced his spiritual power and made his protective presence more potent. Bes ornaments were often placed around the home to protect and bring happiness.
BLUE?
Blue symbolized fertility, birth, rebirth and life in Egyptian art and religion, which aligns perfectly with Bes's role as a protector of childbirth, fertility, and household life. Image created by Eternal Space
Domains
Bes served multiple interconnected roles in Egyptian spiritual life, making him one of the most versatile deities in the pantheon.
Household Protection: Bes was the primary guardian of the home, protecting families from evil spirits, snakes, scorpions, and other dangers. His image was commonly placed on household items, furniture, and walls to ensure continuous protection.
Childbirth and Fertility: Perhaps his most important role was as protector of pregnant women and newborns. Bes was invoked during childbirth to ensure safe delivery and to protect both mother and child during this vulnerable time. His presence was believed to drive away demons that might harm the newborn or steal the child's soul.
Music and Dance: Bes was closely associated with music, dance, and celebration. He was often depicted playing musical instruments such as harps, tambourines, or sistrums. His connection to music wasn't merely recreational—music and dance were considered powerful tools for warding off evil and celebrating life's joys.
Sexuality and Pleasure: As a god of fertility and life force, Bes presided over sexual pleasure and romantic love. His unashamed display of sexuality was considered natural and healthy, reflecting ancient Egyptian attitudes toward physical pleasure as a divine gift.
Dreams and Sleep: Bes was also believed to protect sleepers from nightmares and evil spirits that might attack during vulnerable dream states. Headrests and bedroom furniture often bore his image for this purpose.
Bes Correspondences and Symbolism
Symbolic Meaning: Protection, joy, boundaries, laughter, home, birth, dreams
Ruling Planet: Mars (for protection) and Sun (for joy and life)
Ruling Element: Fire (fierce energy, joy) and Earth (home and hearth)
Season: Summer (abundant joy, protective warmth)
Corresponding Star Sign: Leo (boldness, protection, linked to lions)
Animals/Mythological Creatures: Lions, dwarf spirits, household spirits, cats
Birds: Ostrich (feathers in crown), Falcon (protector role)
Plants: Acacia (Egyptian sacred tree), Papyrus
Crystals: Carnelian (joy and courage), Tiger’s Eye (protection), Sunstone (positivity)
Herbs & Scents: Myrrh, frankincense, cinnamon, mugwort
Tools: Drums, rattles, protective amulets, household charms
Color: Blue
Day: Tuesday (Mars) or Sunday (Sun)
Tarot: The Sun (joy), Strength (lion symbolism), The Fool (playful protection)
Deities: Taweret (also protects birth), Sekhmet (fiery lioness), Hestia (home and hearth), Brigid (family and fire protection)
For some fabulous pictures of Bes artifacts visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC
Worship and Rituals in Ancient Egypt
The worship of Bes was notably different from that of other Egyptian deities. While gods like Ra or Amun-Ra were served by professional priests in grand temples, Bes was honored primarily in domestic settings through personal devotion and household practices.
Families would place Bes amulets and figurines throughout their homes, particularly in bedrooms and areas where children played. During childbirth, birthing rooms were decorated with Bes images, and women in labor wore Bes amulets for protection. The god was also invoked during festivities and celebrations, with his image appearing on wine vessels, cosmetic containers, and musical instruments.
Bes was particularly popular among the working classes and common people, though evidence suggests that even royalty honored him. Queen Nefertiti's palace contained numerous Bes decorations, and the god's image appeared on royal furniture and personal items.
Modern Worship and Honoring Bes
For contemporary practitioners seeking to honor Bes, there are many meaningful ways to incorporate his energy and protection into modern spiritual practice. The key is understanding that Bes appreciates authenticity, joy, and genuine care for family and community.
Creating Sacred Space
Establish a shrine or altar space dedicated to Bes in your home, preferably in a central location where family gathers. Include his image—whether a statue, painting, or photograph of ancient artwork. Surround this with items that represent his domains: musical instruments, family photographs, protective amulets, and symbols of fertility and abundance.
Fresh flowers, particularly those associated with protection and joy, make excellent offerings. Marigolds, sunflowers, and roses are appropriate choices. Incense that promotes protection and happiness, such as frankincense, myrrh, or sandalwood, can be burned during devotional practices.
Bes delights in offerings that invoke happiness and domestic joy. Fresh bread, beer, music, honey, and handmade items are suitable.
Musical Devotion
Since Bes is strongly associated with music and dance, incorporating these elements into your practice honors his nature. Play music during your devotions, or better yet, create music yourself. Drumming, dancing, or singing can all serve as forms of worship that Bes would appreciate. Consider learning traditional Egyptian music or rhythms, or simply let your intuition guide you toward music that feels celebratory and protective.
All about Bes and ways to honor him
Household Protection Rituals
Perform regular cleansing and protection rituals for your home, calling upon Bes as the guardian of domestic spaces. Walk through your home with burning incense or sage, asking Bes to protect your family from harm and negative influences. Place his image or symbols near doorways, windows, and in children's rooms.
Create protective amulets or talismans featuring Bes's image or symbols. These can be worn by family members or placed in cars, workplaces, or other locations where protection is needed.
Fertility and Life Celebration
For those dealing with fertility issues or preparing for childbirth, Bes can be invoked as a protector and helper. Create a special altar during pregnancy, asking for his protection throughout the process. His energy can also be called upon to bless new ventures, creative projects, or any "births" in your life.
Family and Community Focus
Bes was fundamentally a deity of family and community bonds. Honor him by strengthening these connections in your own life. Host family gatherings, celebrate milestones and achievements, and create opportunities for joy and laughter. Bes appreciates when families are close and when communities support one another.
Consider volunteering with organizations that support families, children, or expectant mothers. Acts of service that protect and nurture others align perfectly with Bes's values.
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Daily Practices
Incorporate Bes into your daily routine through simple practices. Begin each day by greeting his image and asking for protection for your family. Before sleep, thank him for his watchfulness and ask for peaceful dreams. During meals, acknowledge his role in providing abundance and joy.
Keep a small Bes token or amulet with you, particularly during challenging times or when you need extra protection. Touch it while asking for his strength and courage.
Seasonal Celebrations
Create seasonal celebrations that honor Bes's various aspects. During spring, celebrate fertility and new life. Summer can focus on joy, music, and celebration. Fall might emphasize protection and preparation for winter, while winter celebrations can center on family bonds and domestic warmth.
Consider establishing a regular festival in Bes's honor, complete with music, dancing, feasting, and storytelling. Invite friends and family to share in the celebration, creating the kind of joyful community gathering that Bes would appreciate.
Prayer to Bes: Guardian of Joy and Protector of the Home
O mighty Bes, guardian of threshold and bed,
Fierce-faced and joyful, with lion’s dread,
You dance in corners and laugh away fear,
Protector of women and children dear.Come into my home with drum and song,
Where laughter lives and hearts grow strong.
Chase out the shadows, keep illness at bay,
Shield us from sorrow by night and day.Friend of the humble, ally of the small,
Defender of life, you answer the call.
Watch over this space, my hearth and heart,
With you beside me, no dark shall start.
Chant to Call Bes
This chant may be used during ritual, daily offerings, or moments of fear or uncertainty:
Bes, Bes, fierce and bright,
Laughing lion, bring your might.
Drums are sounding, spirits flee—
Bes is here to guard with glee!
Repeat the chant three or nine times. You may accompany it with clapping, drumming, or foot stomping to awaken protective energy.
Ritual: Invoking Bes for Household Protection and Joy
This home-centered ritual is simple and family-friendly. It can be adapted for solo practitioners or small groups.
You Will Need:
A small image or statue of Bes (a drawing or printed photo works too)
A yellow or red candle (solar/protective energy)
A bowl of clean water
A percussion instrument (drum, rattle, tambourine, or hands)
Incense: frankincense or cinnamon
Offerings: bread, honey, beer, or laughter/music
Ritual Steps:
Cleanse the Space
Begin by tidying the room and lightly cleansing it with incense or a herbal spray. Say:
“I clear this space for joy and protection.”Set the Altar
Place Bes's image at the center. Arrange the candle, bowl of water, and offerings nearby.Light the Candle and Incense
Light the candle and say:
“By fire and flame, I call upon Bes, protector and friend.”
Light the incense and say:
“With sacred smoke, I welcome you.”Speak the Prayer to Bes
Recite the prayer written above, speaking from the heart. As you speak, picture Bes dancing through your home, casting out shadows with laughter and power.Offer the Chant and Music
Chant aloud:
“Bes, Bes, fierce and bright…”
Clap, drum, or stomp your feet as you repeat the chant. Let yourself smile and feel joy rising—this is a sacred offering!Make Offerings
Place your offerings on the altar. Say something like:
“Bread for the belly, honey for the heart, beer for your joy—Bes, I give these with love.”
You can also share laughter, a joke, or a dance.Bless the Water
Hold your hands over the bowl of water and ask Bes to bless it. Then sprinkle a little around the doors and windows, saying:
“With this water, I seal my home in joy and protection.”Close the Ritual
Thank Bes sincerely:
“Bes, thank you for your watchful eye, your laughter, your fierce care. May you always find a welcome in this place.”
Let the candle burn safely for a while or snuff it if needed. Keep Bes's image in a place of honor.
Bes’s Spirit Animals
Bes’s spirit animals - ostrich and lion
Bes is frequently shown wearing a feathered headdress or crown, adorned with ostrich plumes. Ostrich feathers are often associated with the goddess Ma'at, symbolizing truth, balance, and order. The Ostrich spirit animal teaches the importance of staying grounded and connected to our physical surroundings.
Bes is also associated with lions with his beard being like a mane and lion like ears. Some Bes depictions show him with a tail to emphasize his fierce protective nature.
Crystals Associated With Bes
I love crystals and include them a lot in my practice. Here is a list of the best crystals to pair with the god Bes.
Carnelian:
Its warm, reddish-orange color is reminiscent of fire, which is used to ward off evil spirits, aligning with Bes's protective role.
Lapis Lazuli:
This deep blue stone is associated with wisdom, truth, and communication with the divine in ancient Egypt, potentially connecting us with Bes.
Tiger's Eye:
Its golden-brown bands are associated with courage and protection, reflecting Bes's role as a guardian.
Sunstone:
Its warm, sunny hues evoke joy and protection, resonating with Bes's association with merriment and warding off evil.
Agate:
Different varieties of agate can be found in a range of colors, including orange and red, which were linked to Bes's protective nature and association with fire.
Bes’s Relationships and Family Tree
While Bes is not part of the core divine genealogy of ancient Egypt in the same way as Osiris or Ra, his relationships with other deities reflect his powerful, nurturing role within the spiritual ecosystem of everyday life.
Rather than being defined by a royal lineage or cosmic origin story, Bes’s connections are built through shared purpose—protection, fertility, joy, and sacred domesticity. His “family tree” reflects his place as a guardian woven into the fabric of Egyptian homes, rather than as a god of lofty temples or dynasties.
Bes and Beset: Divine Counterparts
Bes is frequently paired with Beset, a lion-headed or dwarf goddess who mirrors his form and functions. Though there is no unified myth that defines their relationship in narrative form, they are considered husband and wife in many depictions and magical texts.
Like Bes, Beset wards off evil spirits, particularly those that threaten women and children. Together, they form a spiritual partnership representing protection, strength, mirth, and love within the household. Their union is seen as a sacred balance between masculine and feminine protective forces—working in harmony to maintain peace and security.
Bes and Taweret: Guardians of Birth and Children
Bes shares a powerful spiritual alliance with Taweret, the hippopotamus-headed goddess of childbirth and fertility. sometimes seen as his wife and in other myths his sister. Both deities were popular among women, midwives, and families, and they are often depicted together on amulets, headrests, and birthing beds.
Taweret guarded the physical process of birth, while Bes was called upon to drive away evil spirits and grant safe passage for both mother and child.
Bes and Hathor: Joy, Music, and Celebration
Bes’s joyful, musical personality naturally links him to Hathor, the goddess of dance, music, love, and maternal care. In festive scenes, both are shown with musical instruments—drums, tambourines, and sistrums. While Hathor represents beauty and cosmic joy, Bes brings those same energies into the personal realm of the home. Their spiritual connection reminds us that celebration is sacred, and that music and laughter are forms of divine protection.
Bes and Horus: The Protector of the Young
In some magical texts and iconography, Bes is shown protecting Horus as a child. This reflects a mythological period when Horus was vulnerable to attacks from his uncle Set, the god of chaos. Bes’s role here is not as a relative, but as a guardian spirit called upon to protect innocent children and future leaders.
His presence at Horus’s cradle reinforces his broader function as a protector of youth and innocence, and one who fiercely defends the forces of order and good.
Bes and Isis: Partners in Magical Protection
Isis, the great goddess of magic, healing, and motherhood, shares a symbolic kinship with Bes. They often appear together in protective spells, amulets, and rituals. While Isis works with subtle magical forces, Bes confronts threats with ferocity and humor.
Their collaboration represents a dual layer of protection: Isis through enchantment and divine motherhood, Bes through fearless warding and joyful presence. In households and birth chambers, their spiritual partnership formed a complete shield against both seen and unseen dangers.
Isis, a powerful goddess in her own right, was the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. She was challenged in many ways and we can learn from her life battles.
Connecting with Bes's Energy
Bes's energy is accessible and immediate—he doesn't require elaborate ceremonies or expensive offerings. What he values most is sincerity, joy, and genuine care for those under your protection. His fierce appearance masks a deeply loving nature that wants nothing more than to see families safe, children protected, and life celebrated.
When working with Bes, approach him as you would a beloved family member—with warmth, respect, and natural affection. Share your concerns about family safety, your desire for joy and celebration, and your commitment to protecting those you love. He responds well to humor, music, and authentic emotion.
Remember that Bes is a god of action and presence rather than contemplation. He appreciates when his devotees take practical steps to protect and care for their families while also maintaining the spiritual connection through regular devotion and acknowledgment.
In honoring Bes, modern practitioners connect with one of humanity's most enduring spiritual needs—the desire for protection, joy, and the celebration of life itself. His ancient wisdom reminds us that the sacred can be found in the everyday moments of family life, in the laughter of children, in the music that lifts our spirits, and in the fierce love that compels us to protect those we cherish most.
Founder, Ame, writes about honoring nature, animal spirit guides, crystals, and holidays. Learn more about us here.
