Seshat was the goddess of writing, measurement, and libraries in ancient Egyptian religion.
She served as a divine scribe and record keeper, associated with accounting, surveying, mathematics, architecture, astronomy, and historical records. Her titles included “Mistress of Scribes” and “Lady of Books,” reflecting her connection with written knowledge and collections of scrolls.
Seshat was closely linked to Thoth, the god of wisdom and writing. Egyptian traditions variously described her as his wife, daughter, sister, or feminine counterpart, so their roles sometimes overlap. She was also associated with the House of Life, an institution where scribes preserved religious and scholarly texts.
In temple scenes, Seshat often appears beside the king during the “stretching of the cord” ceremony. This ritual established the measurements and orientation of a new building. She was depicted wearing a leopard skin and a distinctive seven-pointed emblem, while holding a notched palm rib used to record years and royal jubilees.