Egyptian MythologyGods and Goddesses

Ra and Apophis

Ra journeys through the underworld to defeat the chaos serpent and bring forth a new day.

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Illustration for Ra and Apophis - a gods and goddesses Egyptian Mythology story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Explore the myth of Ra and Apophis, the eternal struggle between the sun god and the chaos serpent. Learn how Ra survives the Duat to bring the dawn each day.

Each evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the sun god Ra began his perilous journey through the Duat, the Egyptian underworld, aboard his celestial barque. Waiting in the deepest shadows was Apophis, the Great Serpent of Chaos, whose singular goal was to swallow the sun and plunge the cosmos into eternal darkness. As the boat glided through the twelve hours of night, Apophis would coil his massive, scaly body around the vessel, attempting to hypnotize the crew with his terrifying gaze. However, Ra was never alone. The fierce god Set stood at the prow, wielding a mighty spear to pierce the serpent's hide, while the goddess Bastet and the protective snake-god Mehen offered their strength. Through divine magic and physical might, the forces of order repelled the chaos. Each dawn, the sun emerged victorious from the underworld, signifying the triumph of Ma'at over Isfet, ensuring that life and light would continue for another day.

The Moral

The battle between order and chaos is eternal, requiring constant vigilance and collective effort to ensure that light prevails over darkness.

“Darkness may coil around the light, but it cannot extinguish the dawn.”

Fun Fact

Unlike many other Egyptian deities, Apophis was never worshipped; he was a 'negative' god who existed purely as an obstacle to the divine order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Ra and Apophis?

Chaos is an ever-present threat, but through collective effort and order, it can be held at bay. It teaches that the preservation of the world requires daily struggle and resilience.

Why does Apophis want to destroy the sun?

Apophis represents 'Isfet', or chaos and non-existence, which is the natural enemy of 'Ma'at', or order. He seeks to return the universe to its original state of primordial darkness by stopping Ra’s journey.

Why did Set help Ra against Apophis?

Despite his reputation for chaos, Set was one of the few strong enough to resist the serpent's hypnotic gaze. He acted as the primary protector of the solar boat, striking Apophis down with his spear.

What does the solar barque symbolize?

The solar barque represents the passage of time and the journey of the soul. It signifies how the divine maintains the cycle of life, death, and rebirth through the cosmic order.

How often did the battle between Ra and Apophis occur?

According to Egyptian belief, this battle took place every single night. The rising of the sun each morning was physical proof that Ra and his protectors had once again defeated the serpent.

Did the Egyptians have rituals for this myth?

Yes, priests would perform 'The Overthrowing of Apophis' ritual. They would burn wax models of the serpent to provide Ra with spiritual strength and help ensure the sun's return.