Bible Encyclopedias
Bes (or Besa)

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

Search for…

Enter query below:

or

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

Prev Entry
Berzelus

Next Entry
Besai

Resource Toolbox

Print Article

Bes (Or Besa)

was a warlike and savage deity of Arabian origin. When introduced into Egypt he was regarded as a form of Typhon, or Baal. He was represented as a short man with deformed legs, and a hideous face with a protruding tongue; with his right hand he generally brandished a sword over his head, over which was a high crown of erect feathers curving outwardly; around his loins was a panther's skin, the tail hanging down between his legs. Besa was also the special god of dancilng and of the female toilet, and hence his figure continually occurs on mirrors and perfume bottles. His analogue has been thought to be the Siva of the Hindus.