Introduction

The question of whether any Egyptians still follow their ancient religion remains a fascinating topic, especially given the rich cultural history of ancient Egypt. While the official religion today is predominantly Islamic, there is still a significant community of individuals who practice the ancient Egyptian religion, often referred to as Kemeticism.

Modern Kemeticism in Egypt

Yes, there is an increasing number of individuals in Egypt and elsewhere in the world who practice ancient Egyptian religion, often referred to as Kemeticism. This modern revival of ancient beliefs involves the worship of the gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt, incorporating rituals, festivals, and spiritual practices based on historical texts and archaeological findings. While Kemeticism is a minority belief system in comparison to the predominant religion of Islam in Egypt, it is noteworthy that communities and individuals both within Egypt and in the diaspora actively engage in these ancient traditions.

Religious Shifts in Egypt

No, Egyptians do not currently practice any forms of the old beliefs related to the ancient Egyptian gods or the belief system of the ancient Egyptian mythological beliefs. The practice of these ancient beliefs ceased towards the end of the first century, marked by the rise of Christianity. The final transition occurred in the 4th century, following the conquest of Egypt by various foreign invaders – including the Greeks, Persians, Romans, and Muslims. These invasions led to a significant shift in the language, culture, and religion of the region, effectively erasing any traces of the old ways.

Egyptian Mythology and Ancient Beliefs

The myths of ancient Egypt were more than mere stories; they were the product of an intellectually and imaginatively rich ancient civilization that saw meaning and purpose in every aspect of life. Their belief system became a religion over 4000 years ago, shaped by observations of phenomena such as the setting and rising of the sun, the flooding of the Nile, the desert, and changing climates. The ancient Egyptians believed that everything had its own divinity and personality, controlled by a divine entity.

The Pantheon of Ancient Egyptian Gods

Osiris: Ruler of the underworld. Isis: Goddess of motherhood. Horus: Sky god and savior of Egypt.

These gods were worshipped through a variety of practices, including offerings, the construction of temples, and the representation of the gods in various forms, such as animal or human forms, or even hybrid forms. Ideas such as kingship and warfare were rooted in the worship of these deities, with the pharaohs believed to represent the living embodiment of these gods on Earth. The ancient Egyptian civilization tremendously influenced other cultures, including Greek, Hittite, and Roman cultures, through its unique approach to mythology, daily life, and the understanding of the universe.

Conclusion

While Kemeticism remains a small but vibrant community in modern Egypt, it serves as a reminder of the rich spiritual heritage of ancient Egypt. The revival of these ancient beliefs brings new life to the historical narrative of a civilization that profoundly shaped human thought and culture.

References

For further information, consult academic sources and scholarly works on ancient Egyptian religion and Kemeticism.