Egypt was the most advanced civilization of the ancient world in terms of its culture, science, medicine, politics, social structure, and perhaps most importantly its incredibly sophisticated approach to spirituality. It is said that Egyptian magic was given to mankind by Ra so that we could protect ourselves.
Important Components of Egyptian Magic
It is known that there were two important components to the ancient Egyptian magic: words and gestures. The words must be both spoken and written; speak for the power of them, written so that they would last. The amulet was an important ancient Egyptian magic tool. When created for the dead, the heart amulet was made to replace the physical heart that had been removed during the mummification process.
The Book of the Dead contained nearly 200 Magic Spells designed to help with overcoming the dangers of the underworld such as defeating fearful beasts, avoiding various traps and demons. These spells included transformation the ability to change into different beings such as a mythical phoenix or a horned snake.
Ancient Egyptian Priests
The Ancient Egyptian priests were the main magicians and practitioners of magic in Egypt. Most magician priests were believed to have gained magical knowledge by studying ancient scriptures. Real lector priests performed magical rituals to protect their king and to help the dead to rebirth.
In Ancient Egyptian ritual practices, every detail held immense symbolic significance. The myths were used as means of communication through their use as Magical Formula. In Ancient Egypt, magic was widely used to resolve material matters. There were magical texts, spells, invocations, and rituals all of which were used for practical purposes like home purification and protection, prosperity, love, health, the removal of obstacles, etc.
Also, magic was used to influence other persons. Used in the form of “words of power” and as Magical Formula, these can be a highly effective means for calling upon the Gods and Goddesses of Egypt. Several examples of Egyptian texts are given with English translations, all intended to be used in ritual.
There is a number of papyri and old inscriptions proving beyond the slightest doubt that for thousands of years high-priests, magicians, and Pharaohs believed – as well as the masses – in magic, besides practicing.
While we of the modern world differ very distinctly between body and soul as well as between prayers, ‘magic’ and classical medicine, the ancient Egyptians, along with many other so-called “primitive” cultures existing even today, did not. They regarded it was necessary for all these components to be present and working together if ‘magic’ was to occur.
