The Pantheon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Egyptians worshipped a large pantheon (group of gods). Each of these gods had an important role in the creation of the world as we know it. The most important thing to Egyptians was for the world to maintain balance by sustaining maat, which meant order and justice. Everything was about balance in Egyptian mythology.

 

All the gods of Ancient Egypt represented something. Each god was devoted to some part of the universe, like the sun or sky. They were often shown as half-human, half-animal beings, to show a part of their personality. Sometimes they were instead devoted to aspect of daily life, like farming or animal herding. Each god had a story to explain their purpose.

 

Many of the gods we now see as supreme started out as small local gods, watching over certain cities, villages or families. Some local gods had an incredible rise in popularity and became worshipped throughout Egypt.