In the rich and complex pantheon of Egyptian mythology, Nut occupies a special place as goddess of the sky. Revered for her role as protector and her contribution to the fertility of the earth, Nut symbolizes the celestial vault, enveloping the world in her starry body. Her essence is deeply rooted in ancient Egyptian culture, offering a fascinating insight into the celestial and terrestrial importance of deities to the Egyptians.
Introduction
Nut and her iconography
Ancient art and symbology offer rich insights into how Nut was perceived and worshipped by the Egyptians.
Artistic representations of Nut
Frescoes, sculptures and texts often depict her arched over the earth, her body studded with stars, covering the world with maternal protection .
Symbols associated with the goddess
The goddess was frequently associated with the cow, the sycamore tree and the pot of water, symbolizing life and renewal.
Nut as goddess of the sky
The Egyptians saw her as the incarnation of the sky itself and the guardian of the stars.
The celestial vault and its divine incarnation
Nut was represented lying on the earth, forming the celestial vault, separating the world of the living from the world of the dead.
The solar cycle and its links with Nut
She gave birth to the sun each morning and swallowed it in the evening, symbolizing perpetuity and the eternal cycle of day and night.
Nut and divine protection
The goddess was the emblem of divine protection in Egyptian mythology , covering the universe and its occupants with her celestial power.
Nut and the birth of celestial bodies
Nut was said to give birth to celestial bodies, fostering the cycle of life.
Nut and the pharaoh: royal protection
The goddess was believed to have watched over the pharaoh in a special way, enveloping him in her protective power.
Rituals and prayers to invoke Nut's protection
Complex rituals were performed to obtain Nut's graces, imploring her guard against dangers and plagues.
Nut and fertility
The goddess was not only a celestial protector, but also a symbol of fertility and abundance.
Nut's role in fertile harvests
Her name was invoked to promote abundant harvests and the prosperity of the land.
Association with the Nile and annual regeneration
The annual overflow of the Nile, which irrigated and fertilized the fields, was under the divine aegis of Nut.
Nut and the birth of gods
Nut's maternity was revealed in the context of divine birth: she was the mother of important gods in the Egyptian pantheon.
Celebrations and worship of Nut
The goddess enjoyed specific celebrations and worship throughout Egypt.
Calendar and festivals dedicated to Nut
Days "out of time", outside the regular calendar, were dedicated to Nut and celebrated with fervor.
Worship practices and temples
Although temples dedicated to Nut were few and far between, her representations and her cult were omnipresent in other sacred places.
Nut in popular culture
Nut's legacy continues to inspire modern culture and Egyptology.
Nut in literature and the arts
Her figure has spanned the centuries, adorning literary works and art from various eras.
References to Nut in contemporary culture
From fashion to the media, allusions to Nut remain a testament to the eternal imprint of Egyptian mythology.
Conclusion
Exploring the figure of Nut sheds unique light on Egyptian beliefs and cultural heritage, revealing a civilization that has profoundly marked human history.
Appendices
List of divinities associated with Nut
- Osiris
- Isis
- Seth
- Nephtys
Image gallery of representations of Nut
- Fresco on the ceiling of the tomb of Ramses VI
- Reliefs from the temple at Denderah
References / Bibliography
The article would be complemented by a section dedicated to Egyptological books and resources for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of Nut and ancient Egyptian culture.