Egyptian Mythology

Definition

Egyptian mythology refers to the collection of myths and beliefs from ancient Egypt that explain the origins of the world, the nature of the gods, and the relationship between the divine and human realms. This mythology is deeply intertwined with art and architecture, particularly during the New Kingdom, where it influenced the creation of monumental structures, religious practices, and artistic representations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the New Kingdom period, Egyptian mythology significantly influenced art through depictions of gods in temple reliefs and tomb paintings that emphasized divine protection and guidance.
2. Pharaohs were considered living gods, embodying deities like Horus during their reign and Osiris in death, linking their rule directly to divine order as expressed in mythology.
3. Temples built during this era were designed not just for worship but also as a means to communicate the narratives of mythology through sculptures and inscriptions.
4. The Book of the Dead emerged as an important text during this time, containing spells and prayers for the deceased to navigate the afterlife, deeply rooted in mythical themes.
5. The construction of monumental architecture, such as temples and tombs, was often influenced by mythological themes intended to ensure a pharaoh's immortality and connection to the gods.

Review Questions

• How did Egyptian mythology influence artistic representations during the New Kingdom?
  • Egyptian mythology had a profound impact on art during the New Kingdom by dictating how gods and divine narratives were visually represented. Artists used mythological themes to create elaborate temple reliefs and tomb paintings that told stories about gods like Osiris and Anubis. These artworks served not only as religious symbols but also as political statements that reinforced the pharaoh’s divine status.
• Discuss how the role of pharaohs in Egyptian mythology reflected their governance during the New Kingdom.
  • Pharaohs were viewed as intermediaries between the gods and humans, embodying divine authority in both life and death. This belief shaped their governance; they used their perceived connection to deities like Horus to legitimize their rule. The pharaoh’s actions were seen as manifestations of divine will, reinforcing social order based on mythological principles, which was vital for maintaining stability within society.
• Evaluate the significance of mythological texts like The Book of the Dead in relation to Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife during the New Kingdom.
  • The Book of the Dead played a critical role in shaping Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife, providing essential guidance for navigating challenges faced by souls after death. It encapsulated key aspects of Egyptian mythology, such as judgment by Osiris and protection by Anubis. The text emphasized rituals rooted in mythology that ensured individuals could achieve eternal life, reflecting how central these beliefs were to their culture and art during this era.

Related terms

Osiris:

Osiris is one of the principal gods in Egyptian mythology, known as the god of the afterlife, resurrection, and agriculture. He represents the cycle of life and death, playing a crucial role in the beliefs surrounding the afterlife.

Anubis:

Anubis is the ancient Egyptian god associated with mummification and the afterlife. He is often depicted as a jackal or a man with a jackal's head and was believed to protect the dead and guide souls to the afterlife.

Ma'at: Ma'at represents truth, balance, order, and justice in ancient Egyptian belief. The concept of Ma'at was essential to maintaining cosmic harmony and influenced governance, law, and ethical conduct in society.