The Heavenly Abode of the Luminaries (original) (raw)
“The Soul of the Sun Permeates the Whole World.” Sun Cult and Religious Astronomy in Ancient Egypt, in: A. Gail/J. Vacek (Hg.), Special Issue Sun Worship in the Civilizations of the World, Pandanus ‘10: 4/2, 2010, pp. 29-60 Overview over practices relating to the cult of the sun in Ancient Egypt, including observations on the ritual use of the Litany of the Sun and remarks on the secret name of the solar god in Martianus Capellas De nuptiis Mercurii et Philologiae.
G. P. Putnam's Sons - New York + London - The Knickerbocker Press, 1914
A comprehensive exploration of the various myths, legends, and worship practices related to the sun throughout history and across different cultures. This book delves into the cultural significance of the sun, from ancient civilizations to modern times, shedding light on the ways human societies have revered and celebrated the sun's life-giving power. The author, William Tyler Olcott, was an American amateur astronomer and author who developed a strong interest in the folklore and mythology surrounding celestial bodies. In "Sun Lore of All Ages," Olcott compiles a wide range of captivating stories, beliefs, and rituals associated with the sun, offering readers a better understanding of humanity's fascination with this vital star. Readers can expect to uncover sun-related tales from various traditions, such as ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Norse, and Native American cultures. The book also touches upon astrological and astronomical aspects of the sun, further enriching the narrative. By exploring the sun's influence on human culture and consciousness, "Sun Lore of All Ages" serves as an intriguing journey through the sun's symbolic and practical significance in our lives. Some great descriptions and statements that can be said about this writing are : How This book of old Unravels the Captivating Tale of the Sun's Profound Influence on Human Civilization. It Immerses Yourself in the Myths, Legends, and Worship Surrounding the Giver of Life and Warmth aka the sun . Discover the Secrets of the Celestial Body that Has Shaped Human Imagination and Belief Systems Across Cultures and Ages. Delve into the Enchanting World of Ancient Astronomers, Visionaries, and Storytellers Who Held the Sun in Awe and Devotion. Unveil the Profound Mysteries Encapsulated in the Sun's Symbolism, Representing Power, Wisdom, and Renewal. Unlock the Doors to a Realm Where Science and Spirituality Converge, as We Explore the Astonishing Interplay of Astrological and Astronomical Factors. Marvel at the Indelible Mark the Sun Has Left on Human Consciousness, Reflected in Our Art, Literature, and Cultural Practices. Experience the Enduring Allure of the Sun's Celestial Majesty, as We Reveal the Intricate Web of Sun Lore. Uncover the Timeless Fascination Encapsulated in 'Sun Lore of All Ages,' a Comprehensive Exploration of the Sun's Cultural Significance and the Human written history of these concepts and beliefs of old Here are some of the - Temples, Rituals , Countries , Scroll lore of the book includes : 1. Temple of Amun-Ra, Karnak, Egypt: This temple complex is known for its intricate hieroglyphics, colossal columns, and massive scale, reflecting the ancient Egyptians' reverence for the sun god Amun-Ra. No specific texts or scrolls are directly associated with this temple, but the Book of the Dead and other ancient Egyptian religious texts mention Amun-Ra and the sun's significance in their belief system. 2. Mesopotamian ziggurats, such as Etemenanki in Babylon: These structures were central to Mesopotamian sun worship, particularly the sun god Shamash. While no specific texts or scrolls are directly linked to these ziggurats, cuneiform tablets and other artifacts reveal the importance of sun worship in Mesopotamian society. 3. Temple of Re-Harakhte, Egypt: This temple was dedicated to the sun god Re-Harakhte, who was considered the god of the rising sun. Although no specific texts or scrolls are directly associated with this temple, the Book of the Dead and other ancient Egyptian religious texts mention Re-Harakhte and the sun's significance in their belief system. 4. Mithraea (temples) of the Cult of Mithras, Roman Empire: Mithraea were often built underground or in caves, symbolizing Mithras' emergence from the earth. The cult had its own set of texts, including the Mithras Liturgy and the Tauroctony, which depicted Mithras slaying a bull, symbolizing the sun's power over darkness. 5. Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia: Angkor Wat is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and the sun god Surya. The temple complex features intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the sun's significance in the belief system. No specific texts or scrolls are directly associated with Angkor Wat, but Hindu religious texts, such as the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita, mention Surya and the sun's importance. 6. Temple of the Sun and Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacan, Mesoamerica: These structures are central to the Teotihuacan civilization's sun worship. While no specific texts or scrolls are directly linked to these temples, the Mixtec and Aztec codices, as well as other Mesoamerican artifacts, reveal the importance of sun worship in these cultures. 7. Temple of Apollo at Delphi, Greece: Apollo was associated with the sun in ancient Greek religion. The temple housed the Oracle of Delphi, a high priestess who delivered prophecies inspired by Apollo. No specific texts or scrolls are directly associated with this temple, but ancient Greek texts, such as the Homeric Hymns and the works of Hesiod, mention Apollo and the sun's significance. 8. Temple of Augustus, Rome: This temple housed an obelisk symbolizing the sun's rays. No specific texts or scrolls are directly linked to this temple, but ancient Roman texts, such as Ovid's Fasti and the works of Livy, mention the sun's significance in Roman religion and culture. 9. Temple of Baal in Palmyra, Syria: This temple was dedicated to the sun god Baal. While no specific texts or scrolls are directly associated with this temple, ancient Palmyrene inscriptions and other artifacts reveal the importance of sun worship in Palmyra. 10. Temple of Amaterasu, Ise, Japan: This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. While no specific texts or scrolls are directly linked to this temple, the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, ancient Japanese texts, mention Amaterasu and the sun's significance in Japanese mythology. 11. Temple of Konark, Odisha, India: This temple is dedicated to the sun god Surya. The temple features intricate carvings depicting Surya and the sun's significance in Hindu mythology. No specific texts or scrolls are directly associated with this temple, but Hindu religious texts, such as the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita, mention Surya and the sun's importance. These temples, cults, and rituals showcase the diverse and widespread nature of sun worship across various cultures and ages. While specific texts or scrolls directly linked to these temples or cults may not always be available, the rich knowledge of religious and cultural artifacts, as well as texts from these civilizations, provide valuable insights into the sun's significance and the practices surrounding its worship. 1. The Temple of Re-Harakhte in Ancient Egypt, dedicated to the sun god Re-Harakhte 2. The Cult of Mithras, a Roman sun god, and its Mithraea (temples) 3. The Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and the sun god Surya 4. The Temple of the Sun in Palmyra, an ancient city in present-day Syria 5. The Cult of Sol Invictus, the "Unconquered Sun," in the Roman Empire 6. The Temple of Apollo at Delphi, Greece, where Apollo was associated with the sun 7. The Teotihuacan civilization in Mesoamerica and its Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon 8. The Aztec sun stone, a monolithic calendar and religious artifact 9. The Mayan sun god Kinich Ahau and their temples, such as Chichen Itza's Temple of Kukulcan 10. The Celtic sun deity Lugh and the Druidic sun cults 11. The Nordic and Germanic sun goddesses Sunna or Sol and her worship in ancient Scandinavia 12. The Temple of Augustus in Rome, where the obelisk symbolized the sun's rays 13. The Temple of Baal in Palmyra, where the sun god Baal was worshipped 14. The Temple of Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess, in Ise, Japan 15. The Temple of Konark in Odisha, India, dedicated to the sun god Surya Tags related to the Book and subjects and interests intertwined or mentioned that are related to some names of temples and occult societies that are mentioned in "Sun Lore of All Ages A Collection of Myths and Legends Concerning the Sun and Its Worship" by William Tyler Olcott: 1. Temple of the Sun 2. The Great Pyramid of Giza 3. The Sphinx 4. The Temple of Karnak 5. The Temple of Luxor 6. The Temple of Edfu 7. The Temple of Denderah 8. The Temple of Isis 9. The Temple of Osiris 10. The Temple of Ra 11. The Great Temple of Amun 12. The Temple of Mithras 13. The Temple of Sol Invictus 14. The Temple of the Sun God 15. The Order of the Golden Dawn 16. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn 17. The Rosicrucian Order 18. The Freemasons 19. The Illuminati 20. The Society of the Golden Another detailed tag list : 1. The Temple of Amun-Ra 2. The Temple of Horus 3. The Temple of Isis and Osiris 4. The Temple of Hathor 5. The Temple of Set 6. The Temple of Anubis 7. The Temple of Ptah 8. The Temple of Neith 9. The Temple of Thoth 10. The Temple of Ma'at 11. The Order of the White Lion 12. The Order of the Silver Star 13. The Order of the Golden Fleece 14. The Order of the Red Hand 15. The Order of the Blue Rose 16. The Order of the Golden Sun 17. The Brotherhood of the Sun 18. The Sisterhood of the Moon 19. The Order of the Solar Temple 20. The Order of the Golden Dawn (a different occult society than the one mentioned earlier) Sure, here are some additional ideas and concepts related to sun worship and its significance in various cultures and belief systems: 1. Solar deities: Many cultures have worshipped solar deities, which are gods or goddesses associated with the sun. Examples include Ra in ancient Egyptian religion, Apollo in Greek mythology, and Inti in Inca mythology. 2. Solar symbolism: The sun has been a symbol of power, light, and life in many cultures. It has been used to represent the divine, the source of all life, and the cycles of life and death. 3. Solar cycles: Many cultures have observed and celebrated the solar cycles, suc...
Conception of the Doors of Heaven in Ancient Egyptian Religion
Current Research in Egyptology CRE Montpellier France, 2022
“The Doors of Heaven” is the general term that was used in the ancient Egyptian funerary and liturgical texts since the Old Kingdom to refer to the gates that separate between the two realms of heaven and netherworld. Since their function was mainly to protect the celestial terrains from the enemies of the solar deity who threaten the world’s order, these doors only open and close at the passage of the sun god, the deceased king and the blessed dead in their following during their diurnal and nocturnal journeys. Given to this protective function, the Doors of Heaven were mostly hidden and thus, were not just represented as mere gates, meaning that they had diverse iconography and sometimes their existence was denoted to by certain themes without showing an actual portal. Based on the perspective of the ancient Egyptians that equates the earthly world with the celestial one, there were earthly counterparts to the gates of the heavenly vault which symbolically fulfilled the same function.
A Solar Litany from the Tomb of Ramesses
A litany, consisting of twenty-four addresses by the sun god to the inhabitants of the Duat, is discussed. The text, attested first in a highly fragmentary, cryptographic copy from the Cenotaph of Seti I at Abydos, appears largely complete in the burial chamber of Ramesses IX. After a brief discussion of the litany's significance with regard to the union of Re and Osiris, a complete transliteration and translation are presented, based upon a recent collation of the text, revealing numerous corrections and clarifications to an earlier hieroglyphic facsimile, published by Guilmant.
2019
The Pyramid and Coffin Texts are the most important funerary texts in the Old and Middle Kingdoms, usually depicted to help the spirit of the concerned person to be preserved in the afterlife and possess his place in the solar circuit, the matter which guarantee his position in the presence of the gods. So, is the Book of the Amduat which describes the nocturnal journey of the sun god and his followers from the west horizon to the eastern horizon. Regardless of the location of the Duat in the Pyramid and Coffin Texts which was in the eastern side of the sky and its location in the Book of the Amduat which was under the earth and change the nature of the journey to a horizontal movement in the domains of the Underworld, the study aims at investigating the roles played by members of the solar bark's crew in helping both the sun god and the deceased during the vertical transmission from the earth to the sky, depending on the texts before the first appearance of the Amduat.
Light, Darkness and Shadow in ancient Egypt
2020
In ancient Egypt there were different natural elements which affected the various aspects of their life. As the ancient Egyptians were good observers of nature, they realized all the natural phenomena as well as the natural elements surrounding them and provided each with secular and religious significances. Among these elements were light, darkness which created the shadow and the image. These elements reflected a great role on the ancient Egyptians daily life, underworld and even their afterlife. The article will deal with the different words of light, darkness, and shadow. It will emphasize how the light dispelled the darkness in the daily life as well as the afterlife. Moreover, it will cover the shadow which was created from the merging between the light and darkness. All these elements affected the cycle of the life of the ancient Egyptians. Furthermore, they believed in the importance of the image to ensure resurrection and eternal life. Light in ancient Egypt Light for the ancient Egyptians had a divine function on account of its apotropaic power. For example, on the night of the New Year lights were lit in the temples. Additionally, Plutarch mentioned the presence of an eternal flame regarding the light which were always kept burning before the divine image. Moreover, light was symbol of purity and goodness for the fact that it drives away darkness and in turn scattered typhonic forces. For the ancient Egyptians, the Mythical battle between light and darkness reached its peak in the injury and destruction of the lunar eye (which simply indicated the waning of the full moon) the eye which was brought back and healed by god Thot. Therefore, the main task of god Thot (moon god) was to protect the light from darkness as he was also considered the representative of god Re as he accompanied the sun god on his daily journey and lit up the firmament at night as the moon. (Lurker, M., 1980, The Gods and Symbols of Ancient Egypt, p. 76). Consequently, light was not only important for the human beings, but it was also of great importance to all the living organisms. Talking about the light drives us to deal with the different sources of light whether they were naturally created or artificially made. The fundamental natural source of light was the sun (solar disk), which was regarded by the ancient Egyptians as one of the main sources of life on earth affecting the human beings, animals and even every living creature daily. The ancient Egyptians soon deduced the essential role of the sun upon the different aspects of their life.
2023
In the ancient Egyptian religious texts since the Old Kingdom, the sun god and the deceased are mentioned to have been embraced by several deities to guarantee their rebirth after death. This idea appears in the concluding tableaux of the New Kingdom Netherworld Books which portray the solar deity elevated from the netherworld into the morning sky by pair of arms, while in tomb scenes and on the Third Intermediate Period funerary papyri and coffins, the sun disk is shown embraced by two pair of arms at its rising and setting. Despite of being attributed to deities like Nut, Shu, Nun and Tatenen; in most of the attestations, the identity of the owner of the embracing arms is kept anonymous. In fact, the depiction of the arms embracing the solar deity are associated with his Perpetuum Mobile across the eastern and the western horizons of the sky, and thus also related to his passage through the Doors of Heaven that gives access to these two horizons. Given to their protective role and secretive nature, the Doors of Heaven were almost concealed rather than appearing as mere portals, whereas their existence was denoted to in various themes, among which is the embracing arms.