Terry Pratchett: 'In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.'

In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.

In ancient times, cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.' This quote by Terry Pratchett encapsulates the enigmatic nature of these majestic creatures. Cats hold a special place in human history, revered by ancient civilizations and still captivating our hearts today. At first glance, this quote may seem whimsical, but it actually holds a deeper meaning. Cats possess an innate confidence and independence that sets them apart from other animals, leaving us to ponder the idea that perhaps they truly remember their divine status.Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, revered cats as sacred beings. They were not merely seen as companions or pets but were worshipped as deities. Their grace, mystery, and ability to hunt with precision fascinated our ancestors, leading them to believe that cats possessed a connection to the spiritual realm. The reverence shown towards cats in these times is evident in artistic depictions and even the mummification of feline remains.Fast forward to the present day, and it is undeniable that cats maintain an air of regality and an unwavering sense of self. Anyone who has ever owned a cat can attest to their independent and self-assured nature. Unlike dogs, who often seek validation and approval, cats seem to stand tall, aware of their uniqueness and the power they command. Their dignified presence and ability to navigate the world according to their own desires hint at an underlying consciousness of their divine heritage.But what does it mean that cats have not forgotten their godlike status? This concept takes us into the realms of philosophical ponderings. Are cats conscious of their spiritual connection to ancient civilizations? Do they possess a heightened sense of self-awareness, enabling them to tap into their divine ancestry?Here, an unexpected philosophical concept comes into play - the idea of collective memory. Collective memory refers to the shared memory of a group or community that transcends individual recollection. It suggests that certain memories and experiences are imprinted in the collective consciousness, influencing individuals within the group. Applying this concept to the quote by Pratchett, we can speculate that cats, as a collective, retain a deep-seated memory of their worshipped status.While it may seem far-fetched to suggest that cats possess collective memory, it is worth considering the intricate connection they have with their predecessors. Cats' ability to effortlessly mimic the behaviors of their ancestors, including hunting techniques or the way they groom themselves, implies a certain level of ancestral memory transferred through genes.Moreover, the bond between cats and humans throughout history could have contributed to this collective memory. Cats have been our companions, protectors of our homes, and sources of comfort and joy for centuries. The love and admiration showered upon them may have unknowingly reinforced their divine status over time.In conclusion, Terry Pratchett's quote, 'In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this,' serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of cats and their profound connection to the past. The combination of their regal demeanor, ancestral mimicry, and mysterious ways hints at a deeper understanding that goes beyond our comprehension. While we may never truly understand the extent of their collective memory or the significance of their divine ancestry, one thing remains certain - cats command our respect and admiration, even if they don't demand it.