Heryshaf

Heryshaf (also spelled Harsaphes or Harsaphes) is an ancient Egyptian deity, primarily worshipped in the region of Herakleopolis Magna (Iunu-shemaau, meaning "The Pillars of the Sky" in Egyptian). He is often depicted as a ram-headed god, symbolizing fertility, kingship, and creation. Heryshaf was considered a protector of the pharaohs and was associated with the creation myth of Herakleopolis, where he was believed to have emerged from the primordial waters to create the world. In Greek, his name is translated as Harsaphes, and in Latin as Harsaphes. The Hebrew translation, if applicable, would be הריסאף (Herisa'af), although direct references to Heryshaf in Hebrew texts are rare. Heryshaf's cult was particularly prominent during the Middle Kingdom of Egypt, and he was often syncretized with other ram-headed deities such as Amun and Khnum. His worship declined with the rise of Thebes and the cult of Amun, but he remained an important local deity throughout Egyptian history.