Horus
God of Kingship, Sky, and Protection
Supreme deity
Place of Origin: Ancient Egypt
Origin Date: Late Prehistoric Egypt to Ptolemaic Kingdom and Roman Egypt
Domain: Horus governs the domains of kingship, the sky, protection, and the sun.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Horus include the Eye of Horus, the falcon, and the pschent (the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt).
Attributes: Horus's primary attributes are his keen vision, his role as a protector, and his association with the sky and kingship.
Epithets: Horus is known by several names and titles, including Heru, Har, Her, and Hor. He is also referred to as "Horus the Elder" and "Horus the Younger" in different contexts.
Equivalents: Horus is sometimes equated with the Greek god Apollo, who is also associated with the sun and protection.
Sacred Texts: Horus is mentioned in various ancient Egyptian texts, including the Pyramid Texts, the Coffin Texts, and the Book of the Dead, which highlight his role in kingship and protection.
Iconography: Horus is typically depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon's head, often wearing the pschent. He is also shown with the Eye of Horus, a symbol of protection and power.
Religion: Egyptian mythology
Description
Horus is one of the most significant deities in ancient Egyptian mythology, known for his role as the god of kingship, the sky, and protection. He is often depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon's head, symbolizing his connection to the sky. Horus is associated with the sun and the moon, with his right eye representing the sun and his left eye representing the moon. He is also known as the protector of the Egyptian people and the pharaohs, who were considered his earthly manifestations. Horus's name means "The One Far Above" or "The Distant One."
Narratives
The Birth of Horus
Horus, the falcon-headed god, was born to Isis and Osiris. After Osiris was murdered by Set, Isis used her magic to conceive Horus. She gave birth to him in secrecy to protect him from Set, who sought to kill him. Horus was raised in the marshes of the Nile Delta, where he was taught the skills and knowledge needed to avenge his father's death and reclaim the throne of Egypt.
The Contendings of Horus and Set
The battles between Horus and Set for the throne of Egypt are known as the Contendings of Horus and Set. These battles lasted for many years and involved various trials and challenges. Horus, with the support of other gods, ultimately emerged victorious, restoring order to Egypt and becoming the rightful king. This myth highlights the themes of justice, legitimacy, and the struggle between order and chaos.
The Healing of Horus
In one myth, Horus was poisoned by a scorpion sent by Set. Isis, using her magical powers, healed her son and saved his life. This story emphasizes Isis's role as a healer and protector, as well as the deep bond between mother and son.
The Eye of Horus
The Eye of Horus, also known as the Wadjet, is a powerful symbol of protection, royal power, and good health. In the myth, Horus's eye was injured during his battles with Set. Thoth, the god of wisdom, restored the eye, and it became a symbol of healing and protection. The Eye of Horus was widely used as an amulet in ancient Egypt.
The Unification of Upper and Lower Egypt
Horus is often depicted as the unifier of Upper and Lower Egypt. His victory over Set symbolized the unification of the two regions and the establishment of a single, harmonious kingdom. This myth reinforced the pharaoh's role as the earthly representative of Horus and the guarantor of order and stability.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Horus
Core Beliefs
Horus, also known as Heru, is a central deity in ancient Egyptian religion, revered as the god of the sky, kingship, and protection. Followers believe that Horus embodies the divine right of kings and serves as a guardian figure for both the living and the dead. He is often depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon head, symbolizing his connection to the sky and his role as a protector. Horus is also associated with the sun and the moon, representing his dual nature as a god of both light and darkness.
Attributes and Significance
Attributes: Horus is commonly portrayed with the head of a falcon, wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. He is associated with the Eye of Horus, a symbol of protection, royal power, and good health. The ankh, representing life, is also frequently depicted in his hands.
Significance: As the god of kingship, Horus holds a central role in Egyptian cosmology. He is believed to be the divine protector of the pharaoh, ensuring the ruler's legitimacy and divine right to govern. Horus's mythology, particularly his role in avenging his father Osiris and defeating his uncle Set, underscores his importance in themes of justice, order, and the triumph of good over evil.
Worship Practices
Shrines: Shrines dedicated to Horus were often located in temples, particularly in Edfu, which was considered his cult center. These shrines were adorned with offerings and symbols representing his attributes.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Horus include the falcon, the Eye of Horus, and the ankh. These symbols were used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Rituals and Ceremonies
Daily Temple Rituals: These rituals were essential for maintaining the relationship between the divine and the mortal realms. Morning offerings included food, incense, and wine presented to Horus, symbolizing sustenance and devotion. Evening rites involved the closing of the temple and offerings of thanks, ensuring Horus's continued favor.
Annual Festivals: Larger celebrations marked by elaborate festivities and community participation. Notable festivals included the Festival of Victory, which celebrated Horus's triumph over Set. This festival often included processions, reenactments of the mythological battles, and communal feasting.
Offerings and Sacrifices: Offerings to Horus typically included food, animals (such as bulls and birds), and items that symbolize strength and protection. These sacrifices were made to honor him and seek his guidance and protection.
Prayers and Traditions
Prayers: Devotees prayed to Horus for protection, strength, and guidance. Traditional prayers often invoked Horus's role as the god of kingship and protection, seeking his favor in both personal and state matters.
Traditions: The worship of Horus was deeply intertwined with the political landscape of ancient Egypt. Pharaohs often aligned their rule with Horus's divine favor, promoting his worship and building grand temples in his honor.
Horus's worship continues to be a subject of fascination, reflecting the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of ancient Egypt.