Uraeus, or The Woman of Ra was an Egyptian symbol/goddess that was thought to protect both the god Ra, and his earthly incarnations, the Pharaoh. Uraeus was also associated with the power that the king holds over his people and his enemies.

She is often times represented by the deadly Cobra snake that was much feared and respected throughout this area. Depictions of the pharaoh often times incorporate the Cobra in their designs, and the pharaoh's crown is depicted with a Cobra.

In later cultures in the area, this deity, or guardian, was integrated into the local religions. This goddess is also associated with others in this region, such as the goddess of Lower Egypt, Wadjyt.

U*ræ"us (?), n. [NL., fr. L. uraeus pertaining to a tail, Gr. &?;, fr. &?; tail.] (Egypt. Archæol.)

A serpent, or serpent's head and neck, represented on the front of the headdresses of divinities and sovereigns as an emblem of supreme power.

 

© Webster 1913

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