Neith, a prominent ancient Egyptian goddess, held a significant role as the first and prime creator of the universe. Known as the goddess of the cosmos, fate, wisdom, water, rivers, mothers, childbirth, hunting, weaving, and war, Neith's influence encompassed various aspects of life and the natural world.

The heart of Neith's worship resided in Sais, located in the western Nile Delta of Lower Egypt. From as early as the First Dynasty, Neith was revered as the tutelary deity of Sais, where her cult thrived. Additionally, she was one of the three tutelary deities of the southern city of Latopolis or Esna. The influence of Neith's worship extended beyond the delta region, showcasing her significance throughout ancient Egypt.

Neith's symbolism often depicted her as a fierce deity, adorned with the Red Crown and occasionally wielding a bow and arrow or a harpoon. Her association with war and hunting became the most prevalent aspect of her representation. The crossed arrows over a shield became her recognized symbol, often seen in connection with the city of Sais. This symbol adorned the top of her head in Egyptian art, signifying her divine authority.

In addition to her role in warfare, Neith held associations with wisdom and creation. She carried the was scepter, a symbol of rule and power, and the ankh, representing life. Neith was often referred to as the "Cow of Heaven," a sky-goddess similar to Nut, and the "Great Flood," Mehet-Weret, symbolizing her connection to the creation of the world and its continuous renewal. As a protectress of the Royal House, she appeared as a uraeus, embodying the fiery fury of the sun.

Throughout Egyptian history, Neith's cult evolved, and she was frequently paired with other deities. One of her notable pairings was with Ptah-Nun, signifying the blending of their creative powers. Neith's androgynous nature as a creator deity was highlighted, capable of giving birth asexually and without a partner. This concept tied into her association with weaving, an attribute that became linked to her in Greek mythology.

Neith's diverse roles extended to her connection with death and the afterlife. As a protector of the dead, she shot her arrows into the enemies of the deceased and was often depicted as a uraeus snake, warding off intruders and safeguarding the deceased. Her association with death intertwined with her role as a protectress of the canopic jar storing the stomach, highlighting her significance in battle and protection.

In Egyptian mythology, Neith's mythical narratives portrayed her as a mother figure. She was identified as the mother of Ra and Apep, and the crocodile god, Sobek, due to her association with water. Neith's creative powers and weaving abilities were emphasized in various creation myths, with her depicted as reweaving the world on her loom daily. She held a vital role in bringing forth the Nun, the first land, from the primeval waters, and her significance as a cosmic creator was revered.

The worship of Neith spanned several millennia, from the predynastic periods to the Middle and New Kingdoms. Her cult centers in Saïs and Memphis showcased the high regard in which she was held. Her influence experienced a resurgence during the twenty-sixth dynasty when worship in Saïs flourished. Neith's association with weaving and creation led to syncretic relationships with other deities, such as the identification with Athena in Greek mythology.

Neith's multifaceted nature and her prominent position in Egyptian society highlight her importance in ancient Egyptian culture. The worship of Neith, as the first creator and ruler of fate, resonated deeply with the Egyptians' understanding of the cosmos and their place within it. Her symbols and attributes symbolized power, protection, and the eternal cycle of life and death.