Gods and goddesses

The Egyptians believed the universe and all events that occurred within it were governed by the will of gods. The gods embodied not only all natural phenomena but also abstract concepts such as justice, kingship, protection, and truth. Led by the king, Egyptians performed rituals and made offerings to gain the favor of gods and spirits.

Consequently, gods and goddesses feature prominently in Egyptian art. They are identified by symbolic animal features and spectacular headdresses signifying power. Many are depicted wearing headdresses with a solar disk. Ostrich feathers, animal horns, and the uraeus also frequently appeared. Isis and her sister, Nepthys, are identified by the hieroglyphs for their names that they wear on top of their heads. Usually the deities hold an ankh and a scepter. When in human form, the gods are shown wearing a false beard with a curved tip.

See Related Worksheet on Common Forms of Major Deities

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