Symbols of Ancient Egypt : Scepters
SCEPTER OR FLAGEL NEKHEH
The scepter was an emblem of authority that the king held in his right hand. Its design remained consistent throughout Egypt's history, as depicted on the Narmer Palette.
It is predominantly associated with Osiris, though connections to other deities like Min are also evident.
There is no clear and concrete idea of what it represented due to the lack of evidence about it. The most widely accepted theories suggest that it represents a symbol of sovereignty with which the king guides his people. Others interpret its shape as that of a modified flail or a cattle prod. It is also associated with the afterlife and is considered the tool with which the deceased are led, connecting its bearer with the deities of the beyond.
Another theory * 1 posits that it could be a rattle or an auditory guiding instrument since, in the Narmer Palette, the king is depicted guiding men who appear infantile, newly created, with a lack of vision typical of newborns. However, this theory has only been substantiated in one work and is not yet widely accepted, making it an intriguing yet tentative interpretation.
HEKA
The hypothesis suggests that the object could serve as a rattle or an auditory signaling device, as depicted on the Narmer Palette where the king is shown leading figures that resemble infants, symbolizing those who are newly born and possess the limited vision characteristic of newborns. Although this interpretation is compelling, it has been supported by only a single publication and has not gained widespread acceptance, rendering it an interesting but provisional explanation.
The scepter has been used since the earliest dynasties of Ancient Egypt, often in conjunction with the Nekhekh. It symbolizes protection and is one of the most potent emblems a monarch could possess.
SEHEM
The Scepter of Seshem is an emblematic artifact representing power, strength, and dominion. Its origins can be traced back to the dawn of Egyptian civilization.
It was wielded by pharaohs, as well as by high-ranking nobles and even queens during ceremonial displays of authority.
Was utilized in various ceremonial practices, including funeral rites and significant royal events such as the Sed festival or the enthronement of a new monarch.
Itwas revered in connection with deities Osiris and Anubis, and itsdesignation was integral to the constituents that constitute an individual's essence.
WAS
Jon Bodsworth - http://www.egyptarchive.co.uk/html/british_museum_47.html, Copyrighted free use, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3804256
Documented from times as ancient as the pre-dynastic period, its exact function remains unclear. It is predominantly carried by male deities, with a few exceptions, and is bestowed upon the king as a symbol of strength and power.
He could transmit this strength and power to the other world, which is why it was included in the funeral trousseau.
AMES
Ancient scepter of which there is no archaeological evidence and that seems to have been used in the pre-dynastic period as well as in funeral rituals.
His name is reflected both in the great hymn to Imen Ra of the Boulaq 17 papyrus and in the inscription on the statue of Prince Rahotep of Dynasty III.
* 1 Theory developed in J. Mirab's Narmer Code
OTHER SYMBOLS ENTRIES
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