AMUN-RE

1. Carmel-Ann Dimarco AMUN-RE SECTION II - HSC Ancient History HSC RESEARCH AND ORAL – RAMESSIDE SOCIETY

2. Outline the main characteristics of Amun-Re during the Ramesside period. (4) OUTLINE:sketch in general terms; indicate the main features of • Identify titles • Translation of name • Physical appearance • Animal form

3. Amun-Re was principally associated with the title, “King of Gods” (“Amon-Re nesu netjeru”). Being such an influential divinity, he was commonly referred to by a number of names such as, the Lord of Karnak, Lord of Eternity and Everlastingness, Lord of Truth, and Father of the Gods and man. Originating in the separate form of Amun and Re, both similarly attained the image of a “creator” and “sun” god. The syncretism of the two prominent deities, promoted Amun-Re as the chief of state Gods.His name can be translated into “the hidden one” or “what is concealed and invisible”. The Egyptians however, were unable to form one specific “nomen” for the God, therefore addressing his complex nature by identifying him as “asha renu”, meaning “rich in names”.Amun-Re is often portrayed wearing a large crown with two vertically divided feathers (Lord of Great Two Feathered Crowns). In his left hand, he is generally shown holding an Ankh and is envisaged with a hugely-erected phallus.Anthropomorphically represented, both the Nile Goose and the Ram are particularly sacred to the deity.

4. Describe the role of Amun-Re during this period. (6) DESCRIBE:provide characteristics and features • Restore polytheism • Support and partner with Pharaoh • Renew reign of Pharaoh • Protect • Support ordinary Egyptians

5. The restoration and re-birth of Amun-Re during the 19th Dynasty, assisted the Ramesside Pharaohs in re-establishing the lost concept of polytheism. It was through the deity’s connections to other significant Gods that made this role possible, as he linked with, for example, Montu (Amun-Re-Montu), Horakhty (Amun-Re-Horakhty) and Min (Min-Amun). It should be noted that Amun-Re was not attempting to create a new deity, however aimed to develop a unity amongst Gods, further promoting the idea of polytheism. Amun-Re attained the role of working in conjunction with the Pharaoh. Frequently being recognised as the “father of the monarch”, it was this deity who ruled the land of Egypt only through the Pharaoh. The role of Amun-Re to support and develop a form of partnership with the King was therefore necessary to maintain stability, harmony and order (Maat) within the society.

6. On an annual basis, it was necessary for the King to reinstate their position as a high leader. The Opet Festival substantially hosted this process where the King’s connection to Amun-Re was assessed. If the influential deity approved, the Pharaoh would be free to govern for an additional year, thus, reinforcing Amun-Re’s responsibility to renew the reign of the Egyptian ruler. Amun-Re became known as a protector God, which was verified at the Battle of Kedesh as he miraculously saved Ramesses II from death. Wall reliefs have been recruited, displaying the God offering a King in battle a scimitar and spells found within the Book of the Dead, state methods to prevent and heal an injury. Above all, papyri containing hymns reveal Amun-Re’s ability to “come at the voice of the poor”, acting as a protective force and saviour. Most importantly, Amun-Re held the responsibility to support ordinary Egyptians. The Beautiful Feast of the Valley allowed individuals to visit lost relatives, securing their journey and existence within the afterlife as Amun-Re was metaphorically present. Amun-Re established personal piety, which provided the Egyptians with moral directions and ethical instructions. It can be conceded that not only did Amun-Re manage to sustain a solid role in the affairs of the Pharaoh; however he fundamentally protected and supported ordinary Egyptians.

7. With reference to Source 1, explain the importance of Amun-Re during the Ramesside period. (10) • Creation • Impact on Pharaoh • Saviour • Legitimised reign • Provided assistance with reign • Impact on Egyptians • Cult • Personal piety EXPLAIN:relate cause and effect; make the relationship between things evident; provide why and/or how

8. The importance of Amun-Re during the Ramesside period can be attributable to a number of contributing factors, such as, the mythological creation, his immense influence on the Pharaoh and impact on ordinary Egyptians. The first element, which significantly mirrors the extraordinary power and ability of Amun-Re, relates to the mythological creation account. According to one legend, mythical waters of chaos existed, which instigated a primeval swamp when seeds were sent through. The Amun Priesthood further suggest that Amun-Re appeared on a mound, masturbated and produced Shu and Tefnut, Gods of air and moisture respectively. This marked the creation of the universe, as the divinity further generated light and established living creatures. As Amun-Re became known as the primeval creation god, his significance and contribution to the origins of the universe reflect the highly proficient stance the Egyptians devoted towards him. The Hypostyle Hall located within the Temple of Amun-Re in Karnak, allows the annual flood of the Nile to flow across the floors, forming a natural essence of the mythology. This enabled its successor Ramesses II to restore life of the society and gods, bring order out of chaos (isfet) and make a statement that this Dynasty represents a re-birth and renaissance for Egypt. Moreover, the emergence of such a rich, cultural tradition carried out independently and by the thoughts and will of the creator deity, highlights the phenomenon as the spectacular work of Amun-Re. It is from this extreme devotion that the divinity was of supreme importance during the Ramesside period.

9. Specifically at the Battle of Kedesh, the high dependency and prominence placed on Amun-Re became clear. Ramesses II was at the point of death during this war, when he begun to plead and pray to the God. Proving his supremacy and capabilities, Amun-Re saved Ramesses II, exemplifying the many battles in which the God had beneficially became involved in. This reliance on Amun-Re, further underlines his importance within society. Illustrating and publicising the connection attained with Amun-Re was essential for the Pharaoh to legitimise their reign. Both Seti I and Ramesses II successfully accomplished this by stating they were the “chosen one of Re”. Ramesses II further launched his titulary or nomen as “Ramesses-Meryamun”, meaning “Born of Re, beloved of Amun”. Many other Pharaohs additionally incorporated his name within their titularies. Consequently, the considerable extent to which Pharaohs aimed to legitimise their position further reinstates the importance of Amun-Re within the society.

10. Source 1 emphasises the assistance Amun-Re provided the Pharaoh with during his reign. Specifically within this image, Seti I is centred with Amun-Re and Khnum surrounding, as he is kneeling on a heb-basket, symbolising his rule over Egypt. The eminent objects included such as the Ankh, Djed, Was, and the heb-seb hieroglyphs below the Renpet, epitomise the offerings of stability, power, hope and most importantly, life. Seti I is further receiving the mace and kheperesh sword, which act as the tools of imperialism. From this detailed image, the number and diversity of figures indicate the support Khnum and in particular Amun-Re are presenting the Pharaoh with. Conclusively, Amun-Re is typified as an exceptionally important deity, enormously assisting in the rule of this Ramesside Pharaoh.

11. As a result of the supremacy Amun-Re attained, his imperial cult acquired high status and considerable amounts of wealth. As the custodians of this eminent group, the priesthood additionally held enormous prestige and high-ranking positions within society. Amun-Re’s importance within this period is therefore necessary in maintaining this reputation and cachet of his cult. Amun-Re initiated the idea of personal piety, as it became possible for regular citizens to establish a connection to him. This therefore marked the point were ordinary Egyptians of the Ramesside period became involved and concerned in the religious policies of the era. Amun-Re is thus seen as of supreme importance as he promoted a sense of freedom and participation for each citizen. In conclusion, the upmost importance in which Amun-Re attained within the Ramesside period can be credited to his major role in the creation of the universe, in accordance to Egyptian legend, his impact on the Pharaoh and influence on ordinary Egyptians.