Mandulis

Mandulis (also known as Mandouli, Mandoulys, or Mandoulios) was an ancient Nubian sun god, primarily worshipped in the region of Lower Nubia, particularly in the area around the island of Biggeh (also known as Philae) and the city of Talmis (modern Kalabsha). His name is derived from the ancient Egyptian word "Mandjet," which means "the boat of the sun." In Hebrew, his name can be transliterated as מנדוליס. In Ancient Greek, he was known as Μανδοῦλις. Mandulis was often depicted as a young man with a solar disk on his head, sometimes holding a bow and arrows, symbolizing his role as a protector and a bringer of light. He was associated with the sun god Ra and was believed to traverse the heavens in a solar barque, much like Ra. Mandulis was also linked to the cult of Isis and Osiris, reflecting the syncretic nature of religious practices in the region. His worship declined with the rise of Christianity in the region during the 4th and 5th centuries CE.