6
Answer: BSet 2: Inferences
Explanation
PASSAGE
In ancient Egypt, cats were revered and protected by law. Killing a cat, even accidentally, could result in severe punishment. When a family cat died, household members would shave their eyebrows as a sign of mourning.
What does the passage imply about cats in ancient Egypt?
A. They were considered common pests.
B. They held significant cultural and religious importance.✓ Correct
C. They were primarily used for hunting.
D. They were rarely kept as household pets.
Detailed Explanation
Legal protection, severe punishment for killing, and mourning rituals (shaving eyebrows) all indicate cats had high cultural/religious status.
Key Evidence:
• "revered and protected by law"
• "shave their eyebrows as a sign of mourning"
Why others are wrong: A ('Revered' means respected, not considered pests.), C (Hunting isn't mentioned.), D ('Household members' suggests domestic keeping.).