The Female Demon of Sīwa: The Mute Widow. A Study in Doctrinal Reconciliation (غولة سيوة: الأرملة البكماء. دراسة في التوفيق العقائدي)

It is undeniable that the occurrence of death in any human group has a general impact on the living, particularly the deceased’s relatives. These include the restrictions, warnings, and risks that echo its consequences and its period of influence over those closest to the deceased: the spouse, children, siblings, and so on.

From another perspective, grief surrounding the deceased is reflected in his household. What is curious, however, is what has become commonplace among the Sīwans, in naming the grieving widow ġūla (a kind of female demon) and their reactions, initially appearing exaggerated. However, when delving deeper, it becomes evident that it stems from acknowledging human vulnerability in the face of emotional or material losses and the need for compassion.

Furthermore, the death of the husband is often viewed as if it carries not only physical absence but a curse upon the widow’s house. This mourning intensifies through actions such as shaving the widow’s hair as a symbol of sorrow, an extreme measure to keep misfortune and evil at bay. Food is also subjected to specific taboos regarding preparation and distribution. This reflects their belief that widowhood itself holds a deeper, unrelenting sadness.

The article examines the beliefs and rituals concerning death in the Egyptian oasis of Sīwa.