Seshat: The Feminine Scribe of Ancient Egypt Seshat, revered as the feminine partner of Thoth the Scribe, embodies the essence of wisdom and creativity in Egyptian mythology. Known for intimately linking with the cosmic narrative of humanity’s journey through time, Seshat stands alongside other mystical figures like Isis and Hermes. Often referred to as the…
Apophis, alternatively known as Apep, embodies the archetype of the Great Serpent in ancient Egyptian mythology, often portrayed as the adversary of the sun god Ra. According to Egyptian belief, Ra navigated the heavens in a magnificent barge throughout the day, only to confront Apophis—an embodiment of chaos and darkness—during his nightly voyage through the…
Often compared to the mythological phoenix of Greek heritage, the Bennu bird represents themes of renewal in ancient Egyptian culture. If you are passionate about mythology or simply interested in historical narratives, the stories surrounding the Bennu offer fascinating insights into the spiritual and cultural fabric of ancient Egypt. Understanding the Bennu Bird The Bennu…
Several years ago, the British Museum hosted an intriguing exhibition titled “Living with Gods,” centered on the notion that religion profoundly influences human existence. This concept has long fascinated me: if the essence of humanity includes religion, what function does it serve? One fundamental aspect of religion is its role in interpreting and understanding the…
Anhur, also referred to as Onuris in Greek nomenclature, was an ancient Egyptian deity representing war and hunting. Hailing from This, located in the Thinite region near Abydos, he played the pivotal role of defending his father, Ra, the sun god, against foes, earning him the title “slayer of enemies.” His duties often included standing…
Sobek, a unique deity in ancient Egyptian mythology, is often recognized for his fierce appearance characterized by a crocodile head. This narrative delves into the captivating stories, beliefs, and roles associated with Sobek, enriching our understanding of the profound nature of ancient Egyptian spirituality. Who is Sobek? Sobek, known variously as Sebek, Sochet, or Suchos,…
Overview Hathor, a significant figure in Ancient Egyptian mythology, is often depicted with a cow’s head and is one of the most ancient goddesses, with her roots traced back around 5000 years. While primarily revered as the goddess of love, motherhood, music, and joy, she had a multifaceted nature, showcasing both nurturing and vengeful qualities.…
Serket: Protector Goddess of Ancient Egypt Serket, also referred to as Serqet, Selkis, or Selket, is a deity from ancient Egyptian mythology known for her protective qualities and association with scorpions. Revered as a Mother Goddess, her worship spanned across Lower Egypt during the Predynastic Period, dating back to approximately 6000 to 3150 BCE, marking…
The Bennu Bird: A Symbol of Rebirth and Creation in Egyptian Mythology Overview Found in Egyptian mythology, the Bennu bird is believed to have played a pivotal role in the creation of the world. Described as a self-generated being and identified as the ba of Ra, the Bennu flew over the chaotic waters of Nun…
From the dawn of Egypt’s First Dynasty around 3200 BCE, the revered cheetah goddess Mafdet held a significant place in worship. Known as “the runner,” she symbolized swift execution of justice. As the “Avenger of the King,” it was believed that Mafdet prowled the unseen realms, removing the hearts of wrongdoers and presenting them at…