In Egyptian mythology, Thoth is the god of wisdom, writing and knowledge. Associated with the sacred writings on which Egyptian religion was based, he is depicted with the head of an ibis and a pen in his hand. Papyrus, the rolls of vegetable paper on which the founding texts of Egyptian civilization were written, were considered the material manifestation of the divine word.

In this article, we'll explore the world of Thoth and papyrus to better understand their cultural and historical significance.

History and symbolism of Thoth

Thoth played a crucial role in Egyptian culture and history. He is considered to be the father of the Egyptian language and the creator of hieroglyphics. In Egyptian mythology, he had the power to regulate the calendar, supervise writing and encourage the growth of vegetation.

The Egyptians associated Thoth with the moon, believing that the two orbits were linked by a mysterious force. They also regarded him as the god of darkness and night, the symbol of secret knowledge.

Papyrus scrolls and their relationship with Thoth

Papyrus scrolls played a crucial role in communication between the gods and mortals in ancient Egyptian religion. Most religious beliefs and practices were transmitted in writing, and papyrus scrolls were used to document prayers, invocations and sacred rites.

The texts inscribed on papyrus were considered sacred, as they contained the words of the gods and could be used to invoke their power. Because of their religious role, the texts had to be made to perfection in order to convey the divine word .

Theological writings of Thoth

Among the sacred texts associated with Thoth is the Book of the Dead from ancient Egypt. This is a collection of prayers and incantations intended to help the dead in their passage to the afterlife. This book was often buried with the dead in their tombs to accompany them on their journey.

The Book of Beyond is another important religious text associated with Thoth. It describes the journey of Ra, the Egyptian sun god, on his journey to the afterlife. This book is often associated with the Book of the Dead and shares similarities relating to funerary rites and life after death.

The legacy of Thoth and papyrus

Thoth and papyrus have left an indelible imprint on Egyptian culture. The sacred texts are considered literary gems, and the religious practice associated with Thoth remains an important part of modern Egyptians' spiritual lives.

Papyri have also left a lasting legacy in the field of literature and science, as they have provided crucial information about daily life in ancient Egypt. Modern scholars have used these texts to study the history, religion and medical practices of ancient Egypt.

Conclusion

Papyrus scrolls and writings associated with Thoth are highly representative of the importance of ancient Egyptian writing and culture. Thoth, the Egyptian god of wisdom and knowledge, and papyrus, the medium of religious and theological writings, shaped the history and culture of ancient Egypt. Their importance is still celebrated today, as they continue to pass on a wealth of information about a fascinating and mysterious civilization.