Thursday, February 12, 2015

Essay Week 5: Gods and Goddesses of the Egyptians

The gods and goddesses of Egyptian Mythology were very interesting. I found is especially interesting that gods either chose to live among humans or live in their own realm. That is different from other religions. Some religions have their god/gods remain in their realm and only come to earth to aid humans. Egyptian gods/goddesses came and went when they wanted to. The gods and their abilities were also extremely accessible to humans. The idea that one can have the power of Ra (the head cheese) by just learning his true name is pretty interesting. Thoth’s book was kept on earth where humans have a chance to retrieve it (which one did).  I would think having the gods/goddesses come and go so freely and their power within grasp makes them more relatable to the Egyptians. I have never really read anything where gods are active and physically present throughout daily life until this unit.

            I still managed to see similarities with other mythologies though, particularity with Greek mythology. I actually saw more similarities than differences between the two. The Egyptian gods and goddesses did interact more; however, the Greek gods and goddesses still interacted is similar ways, just not as frequent. There are numerous gods and goddesses within the Egyptian belief and they are all offsprings, siblings, or spouses to each other, which is similar to Greek mythology. They are also fighting among each other is situations. The Secret Name of Ra was about the goddess Isis trying to inherit Ra’s power, and she did by poisoning him. She tortured him until he told her his true name. Greek mythology you have similar fights for power or prestige. Also both mythologies’ gods and goddesses had dominion over certain things or areas in the world. I really enjoy the similarities though; it brings up some curious questions for me.
(Image from Ancient Egyptian Gods)

No comments:

Post a Comment