2023

Maat, an ancient Egyptian goddess

In Ancient Egypt, the sacred occupies a central position in almost all facets of life from religion, culture and even common practices. The concept of sacred things in ancient Egypt was attributed to a number of factors including temples, kings and even god’s creations some of which were depicted as animals. Ancient Egyptians had a pantheon of deities for different purposes. Each of these gods possessed unique traits as well as different roles. For instance, there was a sun god known as Ra, magic and protective goddess called Isis, and the god who presided over the resurrection or life after death named Osiris.

The concept of Maat was sacred. It represented cosmic order, truth, and justice. The preservation of Maat was the responsibility of every individual and society in ancient Egypt... Worship was an important part of daily life. It took place in temples or in homes. Religious rituals were meant to honor the gods and ensure the balance of the universe.

Temples were the homes of the gods on earth and centers of worship. Some of the most famous temples are the Karnak and Luxor temples. Temples were built with elaborate geometric designs to represent both the physical and spiritual worlds. The pyramids were sacred places that were the tombs of ancient Egyptian kings and some queens, who were considered demigods. It is impossible to discuss well-known sites without bringing up the Giza Pyramids.

According to the Book of the deceased in Ancient Egypt, the deceased are actually judged at the exact time of their passing based on the weight of their hearts, known as the "Maat" scale.
The door to the other world lies in the scales of Maat, and it is easy to see how the concept of justice was central to this ancient civilization, which was very much concerned with life after death (resurrection). Maat is the goddess with the white feather, and she is also the one who holds the Ankh or Onkh - in Coptic - meaning life.

The ancient Egyptian understood under the word “Maat” many meanings and high values related to truth and truthfulness, honesty and credibility, justice and fairness, order and regularity. For them, Maat was the law of life and its proper approach, which was established by the Great God Ra for the good of mankind and the universe. All texts and archaeological evidence indicate that Maat - in simplicity and clarity - is to follow the right behavior, the right approach, and the honorable morals, for anyone who wants to walk the path of truth and virtue, or to be upright.

Maat's most important principles