Geb, also referred to as Seb or Keb in various contexts, stands as a significant figure within the ancient Egyptian pantheon. His name translates loosely to “the lame one,” yet he is revered as an essential god-king of ancient Egypt.
Overview of Geb
In Egyptian cosmology, Geb symbolizes the Earth and is credited with the phenomena of earthquakes. He is considered the progenitor of important deities such as Osiris, Isis, Set, and Nephthys, marking him as the third god-king to ascend to the divine throne of Egypt.
Who is Geb?
Geb was born from the union of Shu (Air) and Tefnut (Moisture) and is often depicted as the twin brother and spouse of the sky goddess Nut. Their offspring include notable divine figures such as Osiris and Isis, with some legends proposing that Horus the Elder also descends from them. Notably, Geb is viewed as Ra’s grandson.
In addition to his divine legacy, Geb is recognized as the father of serpents, including Nehebkau, a primordial snake deity associated with protection and the afterlife in the Coffin Texts, a collection of funerary spells from the 21st century BCE.
Depictions of Geb
Most commonly, Geb is depicted as a man adorned with a crown made up of the white crown of Upper Egypt and the Atef crown associated with Osiris. In various artistic representations, he is shown reclining with outstretched arms toward Nut, often wearing just a golden collar and a false beard typical of the pharaohs. Additionally, he can be identified by a goose on his head, which symbolizes the connection to his role as the earth god.
Given his character as a Chthonic deity, Geb is linked to the earth and the underworld, which is illustrated by images of vegetation growing from his body. Earthquakes were metaphorically described as manifestations of his laughter, reinforcing his connection to the earthly realm.
The Sacred Goose
The goose holds significant meaning for Geb, serving as his sacred animal. In Egyptian beliefs, such animals act as divine messengers. While other deities had sacred creatures that were worshipped as embodiments of their essence, Geb’s association with the goose is reflected in the hieroglyph for his name. He is also closely linked with Gengen Wer, a celestial goose credited with laying the egg of creation.
Geb as the God of Earth
Contrary to typical gender roles in mythology, Geb is a male figure representing the earth. Egyptian mythology often defies traditional gender norms, as seen in the creator gods displaying aspects of both genders. Geb’s role connects to the Nile, which facilitated agriculture and fertility, integrating water from the earth rather than simply from rainfall.
Furthermore, Geb plays a role in harvest seasons and has connections to Renenutet, a goddess of harvest who nurtured the pharaoh. As an earth god, Geb was also associated with natural resources, including mines, precious metals, and stones important for trade.
Geb in Mythology
While Geb himself does not feature prominently in many myths, his significance is reflected through his divine children. Osiris, his eldest son, is crucial in the afterlife narrative, having been slain by Set, his own brother.
One of the most pertinent myths involving Geb centers on his union with Nut. They were initially so intertwined that their father Shu separated them, a story representing the spatial separation of Earth and Sky. Alternate accounts mention a cosmic egg from which the sun god or the world itself was born. This theme resonates within various mythologies that also feature a creation egg.
The Birth of His Children
Geb and Nut parented four significant deities, but their path to conception faced obstacles due to Ra’s disapproval. To navigate this, Nut enlisted the help of Thoth, who gamed extra days for her so she could give birth without defying Ra. While Nut busily prepared for her children, Geb reportedly engaged in mischievous antics, including seducing his mother, Tefnut, as a challenge to Shu.
Geb as God-King
As a descendant of Ra, Geb eventually claimed his role as the third divine pharaoh. His governance came after Shu and placed him in a prime position within ancient Egyptian hierarchy. His authority is noted in the “Book of the Heavenly Cow,” which reinforces his rightful claim to divine governance.
After some years, Geb ceded authority to Osiris and transitioned into a role of judgment within the afterlife, emphasizing Geb’s lineage and his importance in the governance of the cosmos.
Worship of Geb
Worship of Geb was prevalent in Iunu (Heliopolis), where he was honored alongside other major deities. Although there are no significant temples dedicated solely to him, he was central to earth-related rites, especially during harvests or times of mourning.
The Ennead at Heliopolis, a group of nine essential gods, includes Geb as a significant figure due to his divine lineage. As this collection of deities holds various interpretations throughout ancient regions, Geb’s prominent role signifies the reverence Egyptians held for him.
Funerary Texts and Afterlife
The Coffin Texts and the Book of the Dead highlight Geb’s integral part in the afterlife. He is depicted overseeing the weighing of the heart, a procedure determining the fate of souls in the afterlife. These texts affirm his standing as a judge, along with his familial ties to other major gods in the Egyptian pantheon.
Parallels with Cronus
Throughout history, Geb has been compared to the Greek Titan, Cronus, particularly during the Ptolemaic dynasty. This likeness draws on their shared narrative of downfall and complex relationships with their offspring. They often emerged in associated worship practices, reflecting the infusion of Greek and Egyptian beliefs.
In summation, Geb’s legacy as a vital god of the earth and father figure in the divine hierarchy underscores his significance in ancient Egyptian mythology and cosmology.
