Egyptian mythology was strongly linked to the belief that gods and goddesses were like humans with real emotions and lifestyles. These gods were so strongly revered, that using a god 's name in any negative manner would result in punishment.
Egyptian gods were often linked to an element of nature. Different regions relied on the god that best fit their needs, but only a few gods were worshipped throughout all of Egypt. Ra, God of the sun, was one of these highly important gods. Ra 's mythological influences on the sun were vital to crops and the Egyptians' wellbeing.
For centuries, myths were handed down from generation to generation orally. Eventually, papyrus writings allowed Egyptians to create written accounts of the stories. Researchers believe that most myths began as stories told to entertain. Over time, the stories became real for many, and the Egyptian people began worshipping their gods and goddesses.
Until 4 BC, the beliefs of Egyptian mythology went hand-in-hand with Egyptian religion. The myths told stories of the gods and goddesses, and the Egyptians worshipped them by leaving offerings or going to temples for communal worship. As the BC era came to an end, Alexander the Great conquered Egypt and modern religions became more prevalent.
Generally speaking, there are four time periods that each mark changes in the practice of Egyptian mythology and religion:
There are dozens of gods who play integral parts in Egyptian mythology. Some gods were regional, while others were revered in all areas of Egypt. To understand Egyptian mythological influences, it is important to understand the gods and their powers. Some of the most important gods are:
The impact of Egyptian mythology is still felt in today 's world. For example, like the Egyptians, Native American tribes believe in gods and goddesses that control things found in nature, such as the sun, and worship them. One example of a form of worship is the performance of rain dances in times of drought.
Perhaps the biggest impact that Egyptian mythology has had has been on modern religion. Egyptians were the first to practice religion, believe in higher powers (gods), rituals, and cults. They were also the first society to believe in the afterlife and elaborate rituals were performed after a person 's death to insure that they were going to be comfortable in the next life.
Egyptians also took great pride in their temples, not unlike the modern-day churches and synagogues.
These days, Egyptian gods and goddesses are no longer worshiped, but it is their original myths that paved the way for the modern religions we practice around the world today.