Ihy

Ihy (also spelled Ihi or Ahi) is an ancient Egyptian deity associated with music, dance, and joy. The name Ihy is often translated as "the festival" or "the one who belongs to the festival," reflecting his role in celebrations and festivities. In Hebrew, the name can be translated as איה (pronounced "ee-hee"). In ancient Egyptian art, Ihy is typically depicted as a youthful boy with a sidelock of hair, often holding a sistrum, a musical instrument associated with the goddess Hathor, with whom he is closely linked. Ihy is considered the son of Hathor and either Horus or Ra, embodying the joyous and celebratory aspects of these deities. His worship was particularly prominent during the Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom periods of ancient Egypt, and he was often invoked in rituals and ceremonies to bring happiness and harmony.