[[Welcome Index]] [[Beginner Bulletin]] [[Heka(Magic)]] [[History-]] [[Myths-Theology]] [[Philosophy-]] [[Society-]] [[Terminology-]] [[-Bibliography]] ### [[The Secret Lore of Egypt its impact on the West]] GLOSSARY Of Terms Page 206 #### Amarna Period. The reigns of King Akhenaten (c. 1353-1336 b.c.e.) and his im¬ mediate successors; so called after Tell el-Amarna, Akhenaten's new capital city. #### Amduat. The oldest Egyptian description of the netherworld and the nocturnal journey of the sun through it; composed around 1300 b.c.e. and recorded in the tombs in the Valley of the Kings. #### Archons. In Gnosticism, the rulers over the eons who dwell between the transcendent and the earthly realms and enslave humankind. #### Ba. The mobile, active "sour" of an ancient Egyptian; it had material needs and repeatedly returned to the corpse after death. #### Book of the Dead. A later collection of illustrated spells for use in the afterlife, written on papyri from the New Kingdom on. #### Book of Gates. After the Amduat, the second great Book of the Netherworld, in which the nocturnal journey of the sun is described. #### Book of the Two Ways. Composition that forms part of the Coffin Texts; the first attempt to describe the netherworldly realm in texts, vignettes, and maps. #### Coffin Texts. Collection of texts that continue the Pyramid Texts; written on the coffins of officials of the Middle Kingdom. #### Demiurge. The creator of this world; in Gnosticism, he is an evil principle who is subordinate to the actual, goodly creator of the cosmos. #### Demotic. Late form of cursive script attested from the seventh century b.c.e. on; it was used in place of the older hieratic for letters, legal documents, and literary works. #### Djed. Originally perhaps a stake to which ears of grain were bound in layers; later, the hieroglyph for "endurance" and also an image of Osiris, and in wide¬ spread use as an amulet to assure salvation. #### Eye of Horns. See Udjat. #### Horapollo. Fifth century c.e. philosopher in Alexandria who wrote a widely- used book on the hieroglyphs. #### Imhotep. Official of King Djoser (c. 2650 b.c.e.) who was later revered as a sage and a healing god and equated with the Greek Asclepius. #### Ka. Potent, life-bestowing principle in deities and humans, connected with provisioning and life force. #### Maat. The rightful, balanced order of things, the "Right" in every respect, including "truth" and "righteousness." #### Menes. The legendary first king of Egypt, revered from the New Kingdom on as the founder of the state. #### Ogdoad. System of four pairs of primeval deities from whom the child sun god emerged at the time of creation. #### Ouroboros. Serpent depicted biting its own tail; the Greek designation of the serpent imaged with its body running back into itself, called "Tail-in-mouth" by the Egyptians; symbol of cyclical new beginnings. #### Phoenix. Greek form of benu, the ancient Egyptian name for the primeval bird that repeatedly rises renewed from its ashes. #### Pyramid Texts. The oldest collection of religious spells, serving to enable survival after death; recorded in the pyramids of the Old Kingdom, beginning with that of King Wenis (c. 2350 b.c.e.). #### Sarapis (Serapis). Chief god of Alexandria and of the Ptolemaic kingdom, also venerated in many provinces of the Roman empire; he combined traits of the gods Osiris, Amun, and Zeus, and Egyptians and Greeks were united in his worship. #### Sistrum. Egyptian rattle used in the cults of goddesses. #### Sothis. The star Sirius, manifestation of the goddess Isis and harbinger of the Nile inundation. #### Thoth. Egyptian god of wisdom and writing, as well as moon god and divine messenger; equated by the Greeks with Hermes. #### Udjat. The "hale" eye that was wounded and later healed, often connected with the god Horus, whose eye was wounded in combat with Seth; extremely popular as an amulet. --- There are a few different Dictionaries and collections here. Its best to just look up the terms yourself. [[Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt Revised Edition]] - [[Dictionary of Ancient Egypt]] - [[The Oxford Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt A-F (vol 1)]] - [[The Oxford Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt G-O (vol 2)]] - [[The Oxford Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt P-Z (vol 3)]] The rest of these are general descriptions of terms. ### Lotus: - **Meaning**: The lotus flower is a symbol of creation, rebirth, and purity. It is associated with the sun god Ra and the concept of regeneration, as the lotus blooms in the morning and closes at night, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. - **Use**: The lotus was commonly depicted in religious art, often in connection with the gods and the deceased. It was also a popular motif in jewelry and decorative art, representing the promise of eternal life. ### Fire: Transformation and Renewal: Fire was seen as a symbol of transformation and renewal. Just as fire could consume and transform matter into different forms, it was associated with the idea of rebirth and regeneration. This was particularly important in the context of the afterlife and the resurrection of the deceased. ### The Sun and Solar Deities: The ancient Egyptians revered the sun as a powerful and life-giving force. Fire, with its radiant and warming qualities, was often connected to the sun and solar deities, such as Ra, the sun god. The sun was believed to be a divine manifestation of fire, providing light, heat, and life to the world. ### Protection and Purification: Fire was considered a purifying element. It was used in rituals to purify objects, spaces, and individuals. Fire's ability to cleanse and ward off evil influences made it an essential symbol of protection in the religious and magical practices of ancient Egypt. ### Eternal Flame: Fire was associated with the concept of an eternal flame, symbolizing continuity and the enduring nature of the divine. Temples often maintained eternal flames as a representation of the eternal presence of the gods. ### The Goddess Hathor:  The goddess Hathor, who had a significant role in ancient Egyptian mythology, was sometimes associated with fire. She was seen as a protective and nurturing deity, and her fiery aspects were connected to her role as the "Eye of Ra." ### Alchemical Symbolism:  Fire had alchemical symbolism in ancient Egypt, representing the transformative process of turning base materials into higher, more refined forms. This concept had spiritual and philosophical significance in understanding the nature of reality and the soul's journey. ### Funerary Practices: Fire was integral to the mummification and burial practices of ancient Egypt. The process of mummification involved drying and preserving the body using fire, as well as the belief in the importance of a person's body being preserved for the afterlife. cleansing -purity - rebirth  ### Fly: In ancient Egypt, the fly was often seen as a symbol of persistence and tenacity. The image of a fly was used in various contexts to convey the idea of endurance and the ability to overcome obstacles. This symbolism is largely based on observations of the behavior of flies, which are known for their persistent buzzing and ability to survive in challenging environments. One of the most well-known examples of the fly's symbolism in ancient Egypt is found in the "Story of the Shipwrecked Sailor," an ancient Egyptian tale. In this story, the protagonist encounters a giant talking serpent, and one of the pieces of advice given to him is to "be like a fly on the wall" by remaining silent and unobtrusive. This advice implies that the fly's quality of perseverance and unobtrusiveness is valuable in certain situations. The fly's symbolism as a representation of tenacity and determination is not as prominent as other symbols in ancient Egyptian culture, but it is a notable aspect of their cultural and literary heritage. ### **Ankh (𓋹)**: - **Meaning**: The ankh is one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt, representing life and immortality. It is often depicted in the hands of gods and pharaohs, symbolizing their power to grant life. - **Use**: The ankh was frequently used in amulets, wall carvings, and jewelry. It was also placed in tombs to ensure the deceased would have eternal life in the afterlife. ### **Eye of Horus (Wedjat)**: - **Meaning**: The Eye of Horus represents protection, royal power, and good health. It is associated with the myth of Horus losing his eye in a battle with Seth, which was later restored, symbolizing healing and restoration. - **Use**: The Eye of Horus was commonly used as an amulet to ward off evil and ensure safety. It also appeared in funerary art and was believed to protect the deceased in the afterlife. ### **Djed Pillar**: - **Meaning**: The Djed pillar symbolizes stability, strength, and endurance. It is closely associated with the god Osiris and represents his backbone, signifying his resurrection and the continuation of life. - **Use**: The Djed was used in amulets, as part of temple rituals, and in the decoration of tombs. It was also central to the "Raising of the Djed" ceremony, which symbolized the re-establishment of order after chaos. ### **Scarab Beetle**: (Kheper) - **Meaning**: The scarab beetle represents transformation, renewal, and the cycle of life and death. It is associated with the god Khepri, who was believed to roll the sun across the sky each day, like a beetle rolling a ball of dung. - **Use**: Scarabs were commonly used as amulets, inscribed with protective spells and placed in tombs. They were also used as seals and in jewelry, symbolizing protection and rebirth. ### **Sphinx**: - **Meaning**: The sphinx is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, symbolizing royal power, strength, and protection. The most famous sphinx is the Great Sphinx of Giza, believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre. - **Use**: Sphinxes were placed at the entrances of temples and along processional ways to guard sacred spaces. They were also used in royal iconography to depict the pharaoh's divine authority. ### **Uraeus (Cobra)**: - **Meaning**: The Uraeus is a rearing cobra, symbolizing sovereignty, royalty, and divine authority. It is associated with the goddess Wadjet, the protector of Lower Egypt, and was believed to protect the pharaoh by spitting fire at enemies. - **Use**: The Uraeus was often depicted on the pharaoh's crown or headdress, signifying their divine right to rule. It also appeared in temple carvings and as a protective amulet. ### **Was Scepter**: - **Meaning**: The Was scepter is a symbol of power, authority, and dominion. It is often depicted as a staff with a forked bottom and an animal head at the top, associated with gods and kings. - **Use**: The Was scepter was carried by gods and pharaohs in art, symbolizing their control over the forces of chaos. It was also placed in tombs and used in temple rituals to ensure the stability and power of the divine order. ### **Flail and Crook**: - **Meaning**: The flail and crook are symbols of kingship and authority, representing the pharaoh's role as a shepherd and provider for his people. The crook (heka) represents the shepherd's staff, while the flail (nekhakha) symbolizes the ruler's power to protect and discipline. - **Use**: These symbols were often depicted crossed over the chest of pharaohs in statues and tomb paintings, emphasizing their role as both protector and provider of their people. ### **Feather of Ma'at**: - **Meaning**: The feather of Ma'at represents truth, justice, and cosmic order. It was used in the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony, where the heart of the deceased was weighed against this feather to determine their worthiness for the afterlife. - **Use**: The feather was a key symbol in funerary rites and was often depicted in tomb paintings and inscriptions, symbolizing the deceased's adherence to Ma'at's principles. ### **Tyet Knot (Isis Knot)**: - **Meaning**: The Tyet knot, also known as the Knot of Isis, symbolizes the protective power of the goddess Isis and is associated with life and well-being. - **Use**: The Tyet knot was commonly used as a protective amulet, especially for women. It was also placed in tombs as a symbol of the goddess's protection over the deceased. ### **Ankh and Djed Combined (Ankh-Djed)**: - **Meaning**: The combination of the ankh and djed symbols represents the union of life (ankh) and stability (djed), often associated with the power of the gods to maintain the order of the cosmos. - **Use**: This combination was used in amulets, temple decorations, and funerary art to convey the blessings of life and stability to the deceased or to the living ### **Sun Disk (Aten)**: - **Meaning**: The sun disk, often associated with the god Aten, represents the life-giving power of the sun. During the reign of Akhenaten, Aten was elevated to the status of the supreme deity, symbolizing the sun's rays as the source of all life. - **Use**: The sun disk was prominently featured in art and inscriptions during Akhenaten's reign, often shown with rays ending in hands, offering life and blessings to the pharaoh. ### **Winged Sun Disk**: - **Meaning**: The winged sun disk symbolizes divine protection and the power of the sun god Ra. It often represents the sky and the sun's journey across it, as well as the pharaoh's divine right to rule. - **Use**: The winged sun disk was a common motif in temple carvings and royal inscriptions, placed above entrances and in sacred spaces to symbolize the protection of the gods. ### **Papyrus**: - **Meaning**: The papyrus plant is a symbol of Lower Egypt, fertility, and life. It was used to make paper-like material for writing, but also symbolized the creation and vitality of the Nile Delta region. - **Use**: Papyrus plants were depicted in art, especially in scenes showing the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt. They were also used in the construction of religious texts and in offerings to the gods. --- ### **Jackal** The realm of jackal is the realm of night, of deep mysteries, surrounded by the sacred precinct of the necropolis, the burial grounds of the ancestors. From the earliest times jackal has dwelt within this domain. Before the Egyptians developed the practices of mummification, for those who could afford this elaborate funerary ceremony, burials in the Prehistoric and Predynastic Periods were in simple pit burials, dug out of the sand, with a few simple grave goods for the journey into the everlasting realm of the otherworld, the Tuat. The ease of access to the burials provided an accessible supply of meat for the jackals, scavengers by nature, keen to take their fill of what others have discarded or ignored. From this association with scavenging in the necropolis, over time, the lore of the jackal became one with the lore of the realms of death. The frequent entrance into graves by jackals, though sealed with religious rites and spells, suggested to the Priests that this animal was able to enter and traverse the regions of death and return unharmed. This association with entering the burial pits provides the earliest evidence for the association of the jackal with otherworldly powers and the ability to access, enter and ability to safely the return to Egyptian the traverse the ancestral regions of the Duat. The Egyptian Otherworld - with the powerful ability to safely return to the earth above. Jackal is the preeminent Guardian and Gatekeeper of the realm of the otherworld. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 22 #### Associated Neteru Anubis, Osiris, Wepwawet, Isis, Nepthys. #### Associated Wild Animal Wild Dog, Wolf (Greek Period onwards). #### Associated Domestic Animal Domesticated Dog. #### Primary Colour Black #### Contact Symbols The closed door. The closed chest. The tomb #### Oracular Meaning When drawn to the Jackal issues of guardianship, guidance and protection are keywords. These equally apply to the physical and astral planes of experience. The connections between Sephira Yesod and Da'ath upon the Tree of Life, which are both Gateway sephiroth, offers important insights into the breadth of the Jackal's domain and associated powers. Jackal provides a powerful companion on journeys and may be called upon to assist in all matters of Opening, be they new ventures, physical journeys (to safeguard the road). inner of plane communication and of the opening and of enduring of channels importance of consciousness, which lead to a transformed understanding and personal knowledge of the worlds within and without. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 33-34 ### **Dog** From ancient times, the dog has played a key role in the lives of humans. The Egyptians were amongst many ancient peoples who very early in their civilization recognized the useful qualities of wild dogs, domesticating them for their own purposes. In particular, the dogs' superior sense of smell and its ability to track prey, led to the use of dogs as familiar and useful hunting animals. The common dog (Canis familiaris), was frequently portrayed as a companion to humans in wall paintings from Early Dynastic history, later being frequently spoken of in texts, including the well-known Papyrus of Ani (The Book of the Dead), where the desired ability to obtain something fast was spoken of as occurring "quicker than a greyhound, and swifter than light" [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 35 #### Primary Element Earth #### Planetary Correspondence Moon, Sirius #### Season Akhe #### Realm Ta, Tuat #### Associated Neteru Anpu, Wepawawet, Asar (Osiris),Ast (Isis), Nebt Het (Nepthys) #### Associated Wild Animal Jackal #### Associated Domestic Animal None #### Primary Color Black #### Contact Symbols The Wild Dog/Jackal headed God, standing, with His right foot advanced forward and both hands placed upon His thighs (Opener of the Way posture); a Dog of dignified appearance poised alertly, ears attentive, as he lays recumbent upon a Shrine. #### Oracular Meaning I Open the Way for others to Follow' says the Lord of the Hidden realms. In approaching Dog as a sacred animal of the Egyptian tradition, developing a keen sensitivity to the heightened sensory world of this animal is a primary lesson to be learnt. Though humans are accustomed to the companionship of dogs who inhabit the world in increasing numbers, little regard is often paid to the important role that dogs play in people's lives: as companions, guardians and guides, ever vigilant to danger seen and unseen. The widespread abuse of canines in the modern world represents yet another of the imbalances wrought upon nature by the domination of the human species. Though little thought may be paid to the countless dogs who annually perish in animal shelters, or who are maltreated or abandoned once the novelty has worn off, the contemporary practitioner of Egyptian Heka is urged to consider the manner in which Heka works with any species brings responsibility towards that kind. Of concern is the compassionate nature of dogs and the way in which they have been seen to so often bear the weight of any illness or distress of their human companions. Frequently stories of dogs who are so attuned to their owners that they 'take on' symptoms, or present physical manifestations of diseases are heard, as also are tales of dogs whose presence aids in healing a person lowering blood-pressure, or providing other unseen relief from symptoms through their presence. It is because of the very sensitive and sensitized nature of dog, that this animal presents an immensely effective and powerful animal form of the initial Egyptian powers that need to be effectively awakened in the astral ambience of the individual to enable subsequent work to be effectively undertaken. The necessity of having Guardianship and Guidance as each one embarks upon the exploration and study of mysteries - whose paths traverse visible and invisible realms need not be emphasized, It is also for this reason that the Jackal and Dog are called Foremost (First) of the Westerners being the first Godform who is encountered upon the Path of Egyptian Heka. To this sacred animal form contemporary practitioners are directed to address petitions for assistance in their modern quest into the ancient mysteries. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 38-40 ### **Swallow** "I am a swallow, I am a swallow, I am that Scorpion-goddess, the daughter of Re...I have gone on an errand and I have returned with a report Open to me; then I will tell what I have seen." Egyptian religious texts transmit through time an interconnected body of complex lore, expressing the profound philosophic nature of Egyptian thought. Such thought was derived from the realms of the gods and ancestors and objective maintaining of the ongoing central links ceremony with of these offering realms food. was drink a main and praises in the inner sanctuary of the Temple or within the tomb chapel. While such songs and praises were offered directly before the cult image or statue of the Neteru, or before the funerary stele of the ancestor, the means by which communication could be sent and received between the realms of the living and the dead and between the realms of the Neteru themselves included the use of a messenger. The role of the messenger in ancient times was both privileged and precarious. Bestowed with generous boons upon the delivery of a positive communication, the messenger often risked their life in delivering words that might displease. Messengers were utilized to deliver communications in a wide range of settings, sacred and secular. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 41 #### Primary Element Fire, Air #### Planetary Correspondence Sun, Mercury #### Season Akhe #### Realm Tuat #### Associated Neteru Selket; Wepwawet; Inpw. #### Associated Wild Animal Scorpion; Jackal. #### Primary Colour Deep Azure Blue-Black, Gold. #### Contact Symbols The Swallow perched atop a mound #### Oracular Meaning Communication pertains to the realm of air, an invisible and swiftly moving element. The form of the swallow this power of subtle, yet swift movement is exemplified. The Small size of this bird in nature and the seemingly playful attitude it adopts whilst flying permit it to move unhindered in the realm of air and to not cause alarm as it passes by. this holds a key lesson for those today who seeks to access the hidden domains of power in the Duat  and to communicate with the guns and ancestors who  reside in this realm.  contemporary practitioners are urged to keep in mind the Dual nature of the Sun in approaching  the portals of solar power within Egyptian ceremony.  care is required to carefully access the specific aspects of the solar power which is the focus of any work. in the lore of the swallow the solar power is approachable and yet, closely guarded.  In calling upon the powers of the swallow, Scorpion is simultaneously awakened. of necessity, honoring the protective power of Isis in work with this sacred animal is advised, as it is called upon Wepwawet  to  open the way between worlds.  In relation to sending or receiving messages between realms, the eight of the swallow enables the Swift and safe delivery of all the forms of correspondences.  a counterpart to this is the ability of swallow to act as the ensign  of the delivery of all the forms of communication from those realms. when you seek to send an important message, or letter, send it between the wings of a swallow  to ensure delivery without delay. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 48 ### **Crocodile** All approach the domain of crocodile with respect. One of the crocodiles have the capability of easily killing prey. Ravenous meat-eaters, as young animals their diet consists of beetles, crabs and small aquatic invertebrates; moving to fish, birds, snails, frogs and eventually their adult diet of large animals including young cattle and hippopotamus. Fully capable of killing large prey, including humans, the ancient lore surrounding crocodile reflects its position as an awesome power within the river: one that has the dual capability to protect itself within its environment and also to avert intruders into its domain. The presence of crocodile surfacing above the waters, its eye glazed as it moves towards a sandbank to absorb the morning sun, speaks of the ever-present need for caution in moving into the realm of the waters of Egyptian Heka. Crocodile is an animal that potently denotes warning. Throughout Egyptian history the role that the sun plays in the life of crocodile was keenly observed and became one of the aspects of its lore. The attitudes to crocodile within the religion underwent a distinct change over time. It must be noted that in working with crocodile today, care must be exercised, as contemporary practitioners have inherited an often paradoxical lore surrounding this animal who is simultaneously honored and reviled within Egyptian Tradition depending upon which time in Egyptian history you draw inspiration from and also, from which Temple. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 51 #### Primary Element Water #### Planetary Correspondence Sun, Draco #### Season All #### Realm Ta, Tuat #### Associated Neteru Sebek (Sobek, Sobk); Heru (Horus); Neit; Set #### Associated Wild Animal Hippopotamus; Hawk #### Associated Domestic Animal None #### Primary Color Red #### Contact Symbols Crocodile Crowned with the White Crown of Upper Egypt; a crocodile recumbent upon a sand-mound, in the morning sun its jaws are closed and with eyes half-shut, it sniffs the morning breeze. (Note: it is not suggested to use aggressive images of crocodile in ceremony or meditation for reasons apparent from the preceding discussion) #### Oracular Meaning The appearance of Crocodile generally denotes that a warning is being given, In this, Crocodile is to be regarded as an ally and protector upon the path of Heka. Trusting one's instincts in any matter is recommended. Regard for the wise counsel of respected and trustworthy peers and Heka predecessors is advised. Do not be hasty to rush forward into an unknown realm, or into making opinions on a matter without adequate understanding. Test the waters waters' of any endeavor before enterıng. Crocodile continuously patrols its realm, alert to to the the danger danger of concealed enemies. [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] Page 68-69 ## Subjects [[Beginner Bulletin]] [[Heka(Magic)]] [[History-]] [[Myths-Theology]] [[Philosophy-]] [[Society-]] [[Terminology-]] ### [[-Bibliography]] - [[Welcome Index]] [[Egyptian Animals Guardians And Gateways of the Gods]] [[The Secret Lore of Egypt its impact on the West]] [[Ancient Egypt and Modern Psychotherapy Sacred Science and the Search for Soul]] [[Anubis Speaks! A Guide to the Afterlife by the Egyptian God of the Dead]] [[Ancient Egyptian Magic A Hands-On Guide]] [[Village Life in Ancient Egypt Laundry Lists and Love Songs]] [[Ancient Egyptian Literature An Anthology]] [[Apedemak, Lion God of Meroe a Study in Egyptian-Meroitic]] [[Book of the Faiyum]] [[Conceptions of God in Ancient Egypt - The One and the Many]] [[Egyptian Myths (The World's Greatest Myths and Legends)]] [[Egyptian Hieroglyphics How to Read and Write Them]] [[First Steps in Egyptian Hieroglyphics A Book for Beginners]] [[Following Osiris Perspectives on the Osirian Afterlife from Four Millennia]] [[Dancing for Hathor women in Ancient Egypt]] [[How to Read Egyptian Hieroglyphs a step-by-step guide]] [[Hymns, Prayers and Songs An Anthology of Ancient Egyptian Lyric Poetry]] [[Dictionary of Ancient Egypt]] [[The Complete Pyramids Solving the Ancient Mysteries]] Symbolism-OR-Art [[Amulets of ancient Egypt]] [[Art of Ancient Egypt A Resource for Educators]] [[Between Heaven and Earth Birds in Ancient Egypt]] [[Black and Gold God colour symbolism of the god Anubis with observations on the phenomenology of colour in Egyptian and comparative religion]] [[Body Cosmos and Eternity New Trends of Research on Iconography and Symbolism of Ancient Egyptian Coffins]] [[Heaven On Earth Temples, Ritual, and Cosmic Symbolism In The Ancient World]] [[Scarabs, Scaraboids, Seals, and Seal Impressions from Medinet Habu]] [[Symbol and the symbolic Egypt, science, and the evolution of consciousness]] [[The Graffiti On The Khonsu Temple Roof At Karnack]] [[Visual and Written Culture in Ancient Egypt]]