The creation of sacred female figures in Egyptian folklore is rooted in ancient, Coptic, and Islamic traditions. Nearly every village has a shrine for a revered figure, emerging from a fusion of history and mythology. These figures often possess miraculous powers, blurring reality and legend. In modern times, communities seek legitimacy by linking them to the Prophet's family or Sufi orders, potentially obscuring true motivations.
However, Sheikhah Maryam is an exception. She is not a descendant of the Prophet nor affiliated with Sufism, and her name encourages both Muslim and Christian reverence. Her karamāt focus on fertility and healing, and her annual festival coincides with Sham El-Nessim, the ancient Egyptian spring festival. This suggests a deep historical continuity and raises questions about her role as a sacred mother figure, potentially extending ancient Egyptian beliefs linking motherhood, fertility, and creation. Her case represents a rare instance of a figure created by the people without an official framework, yet she remains venerated. This lecture presents the results of a field study on her case, exploring the persistence of sacred female figures in Egyptian folklore.