Egyptian Deities And Stars

In ancient Egyptian religion, deities associated with stars played a significant role in the cosmology and mythological narratives. These celestial beings were often linked to specific stars, constellations, or celestial phenomena, reflecting the Egyptians' deep understanding and reverence for the night sky. One of the most prominent examples is Sopdet (also known as Sothis), the goddess associated with the star Sirius, which the Egyptians called Sopdet in their language. The rising of Sirius marked the beginning of the annual flooding of the Nile, a crucial event for agriculture. In Hebrew, Sopdet is referred to as סופדת, and in Arabic, it is known as Sopdet or Sothis. Another notable deity is Sahu, a manifestation of the god Horus, who was associated with the stars and the heavens. The Egyptians believed that the stars were the eyes of Sahu, watching over the world. Additionally, the goddess Hathor, often depicted with a cow's horns and a solar disk, was also connected to celestial bodies, including stars. The Egyptians' astronomical knowledge was deeply intertwined with their religious beliefs, and the stars were seen as divine entities that influenced both the natural world and human affairs.