Provides definitive coverage of the ancient Egyptian gods, mythological figures, religious cults, priesthoods, and esoteric practices and beliefs

A comprehensive guide to the deities of ancient Egypt: their origins and their central role in the lives of the Egyptian people Worshipped for over three-fifths of recorded history, Egypt’s gods and goddesses are among the most fascinating of human civilization. The lives of pharaohs and commoners alike were dominated by the need to honor, worship, and pacify the huge pantheon of deities, from the benevolent to the malevolent. The richness and complexity of their mythology is reflected in countless tributes throughout Egypt, from lavish tomb paintings and imposing temple reliefs to humble household shrines. This book examines the evolution, worship, and eventual decline of the numerous gods and goddesses—from minor household figures such as Bes and Tawaret to the all-powerful deities Amun and Re—that made Egypt the most theocratic society of the ancient world, and made Egyptians, according to Herodotus, “more religious than any other people.” Now available in paperback, with hundreds of illustrations and specially commissioned drawings, this title remains the most comprehensive and authoritative guide to the deities that lay at the heart of Egyptian religion and society.

Spanning ancient Egyptian culture--from 3200 BC to AD 400--Pinch opens a door to this hidden world and casts light on the nature of myths and how they relate to the evolution of Egyptian culture. She includes a timeline covering the seven stages in the mythical history of Egypt and outlining the major events of each stage. A substantial A to Z section covers the principal themes and concepts of Egyptian mythology as well as the most important deities, demons, and other characters. This is an ideal introduction for students interested in learning about Egyptian myths, and the culture that created them.

"Robert Armour's classic text, long cherished by a generation of readers, is now complemented with more than 50 new photographs by Egyptologist Edwin Brock and drawings by Elizabeth Rodenbeck that show the gods in their characteristic forms." "Armour maintains a strong narrative thread with illuminating commentary in his lively retelling of stories from Egyptian mythology, including those of the sun god Ra, the tragic tale of Isis and Osiris, the burlesque of Horus' battle with the evil Seth, and the "gods of the intellect" Thoth and Maat. Now with an updated bibliography and new appendices, this book is sure to inform and enchant a new generation of readers."--Jacket.

Unearth the mythology of ancient Egypt—stories of gods and goddesses for kids 8 to 12 From the rising of the morning sun to the summer flooding of the Nile River, the ancient Egyptians believed powerful gods and goddesses ruled over every aspect of their daily lives. This Egyptian mythology guide takes you on a trip through the sands of time to explore the world of pharaohs and sphinxes—ancient Egypt! Featuring illustrated myths of incredible Egyptian gods and goddesses, these stories describe the magic each deity performed along the Nile. You'll also learn about how Egyptian mythology was a key part of ancient Egyptian culture, like pyramid building, the mummification process, and even the worshiping of cats. This Egyptian mythology collection includes: Narratives from the Nile—Explore the gods and goddesses of Egyptian mythology, from the familiar to the lesser-known, through 20 easy-to-follow myths. Amazing artwork—Take a look at the gods, goddesses, and artifacts of the long-extinct ancient Egyptian empire with captivating illustrations and photos. Fast pharaoh facts—Dig into ancient Egyptian mythology and culture with plenty of awesome facts on everything from hieroglyphs to the popular board game, Senet. Explore the legendary lives of ancient gods and goddesses with this rich treasury of Egyptian mythology.

Containing one of the most comprehensive listings and descriptions of Egyptian deities available – students studying Ancient Egypt, travellers, visitors to museums and all those interested in mythology will find this an invaluable resource.