Patrons, Prayers, and Piety: Part 10
Piety in the Popular Religion
Every aspect of the ancient Egyptian life was infused with religion, and religion was infused with magic (Szpakowska, 2008; 123). Small shrines have been found in common households throughout Egypt, as well as cultic images of protective deities (Szpakowska, 2008; 125). Petrie sheds more light on what these shrines could have looked like: small niches carved into the west walls of the main household hallway, often painted with sacred images. These niches are dated, according to Petrie, to the New Kingdom, seen mostly in the Ramesseum and Tell el-Amarna (Petrie, 1972; 34). The shrines were home to figurines representative of gods and goddesses associated with the household, such as the protective deities Tawaret and Bes. Amulets were also made in the likeness of protective deities and symbols, often worn by individuals (Szpakowska, 2008; 125).
Rituals or spells were common amongst the populace, though knowledge of the correct words and motions was required for these to be effective (Szpakowska, 2008; 130). These spells required, not only words and motions, but ritual figurines and generic objects, as well (Szpakowska, 2008; 131). Everyday artifacts were also used in ritual context during the daily lives of the ancient Egyptians (Szpakowska, 2008; 133-135). Cups, lamps, and mirrors all had ritualistic as well as functional aspects to them. Many of these objects were available to all Egyptians, making them a common part of religious rituals within ancient Egypt (Szpakowska, 2008; 135).
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Hi,
Could you explain how niches found in household hallways can be seen at the Ramesseum? I don’t remember seeing them. I think a picture of an example of these would be great.
Thanks
Hi, Erika!
Unfortunately all I have is the word of Petrie in the book “Religions and Conscience in Ancient Egypt” that was republished in 1972. I do not have photographs, I’m sorry.
Best,
Page