Ancient Egyptian civilization — Nile Valley from the First Cataract to the Mediterranean Delta · Nile River Valley, Egypt — one of the world's longest continuously inhabited civilizations
Through temple inscription (hieroglyphic texts covering every surface of temple walls). Through papyrus manuscripts (the Book of the Dead was a personal copy commissioned for each wealthy deceased). Through the Osiris mystery plays (public annual performance at Abydos). Through priestly…
The universe is maintained by Ma'at — the cosmic principle of truth, justice, order, harmony, balance, and morality. Ma'at is simultaneously a goddess (depicted with an ostrich feather on her head), a moral code (the 42 Negative Confessions), and the…
Ra — the Sun God, supreme deity of the New Kingdom. Atum — the self-created, the All. Amun — "the Hidden One," supreme deity of the Theban tradition. These are aspects of the same ultimate divine principle rather than competing…
The feather of Ma'at (the measure of all hearts). The Ankh (life symbol). The Was scepter (power symbol). The djed pillar (stability, associated with Osiris). The Ib (heart — the seat of morality). Canopic jars (for preserving organs). Shabtis (servant…
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