Apophis, the god of evil, also known as Apep, is also considered the god of chaos and darkness. He is often depicted as a giant serpent. Apophis was one of the most feared enemies of the Egyptian gods, especially the sun god Ra, which he sought to devour each night.
According to Egyptian mythology, Apophis was present in the underworld and sought to disrupt the cosmic order. The latter was considered the representative of chaos and darkness, which opposed the light and order represented by the Egyptian gods. The Egyptians believed that if Apophis managed to devour Ra, the world would be plunged into darkness and chaos.
To counter Apophis, the Egyptians invoked the powers of various gods, in particular Ra, who was supposed to defeat the serpent every night by traversing the underworld in his solar barque. Egyptian priests used magic formulas and incantations to help Ra to triumph over Apophis, and every morning the victory of the sun god over the serpent was celebrated.
The iconography of Apophis in Egyptian art is often associated with the depiction of a giant snake with dark colors and smooth skin. His eyes and mouth were often depicted in red, which accentuated his menacing and evil appearance. The Egyptians believed that Apophis' power was such that his image had to be destroyed to prevent his return, which is why he was often depicted with a weapon planted in his head or body.
But that's not all, he is, for the Egyptians, the one who prevents souls from ascending to heaven. The Egyptians believed that when they died, their soul had to pass through the underworld to reach eternal life. Apophis was considered an obstacle on this path, seeking to disrupt the order of the cosmos and prevent souls from crossing safely. The Egyptians believed that if Apophis triumphed, souls would be doomed to wander eternally in darkness.
Influence and Legacy
The iconic figure of Apophis in Egyptian mythology is far from isolated in the vast landscape of human beliefs about the divine and cosmic. In fact, the archetype of the chaotic and evil serpent or dragon that is in constant opposition to the forces of order and creation transcends cultural and temporal barriers. This motif is found in a surprising range of mythologies and religious traditions across the world, from the icy cold of Scandinavia to the valleys of the Indian subcontinent.
We invite you to review the examples above for a deeper understanding of how this universal pattern has manifested in different cultures. Whether in Norse, Hindu, Greek, or Mesopotamian mythology, the presence of a figure similar to Apophis testifies to the power of this symbol as a representation of the chaotic and destructive forces inherent in the universe.
- Nordic mythology: Jormungandr, the Midgard Serpent, is a gigantic creature that surrounds the world. Like Apophis, Jormungandr is also an adversary of the gods, particularly Thor. At the end of time, during Ragnarok, Jormungandr will emerge from the ocean to fight the gods, reflecting the perpetual struggle between chaos and order.
- Hindu mythology: In the Rig Veda, Vritra is a dragon or serpent who holds back the waters of the world, causing drought. He is ultimately defeated by the god Indra, who releases the waters for the good of humanity. The theme of fighting a chaotic snake or dragon is found here too.
- Greek mythology: Typhon is a terrifying monster that threatens the gods of Olympus. Like Apophis, Typhon is associated with chaos and destruction. He is ultimately defeated by Zeus, who restores order.
- Mesopotamian mythology: In the epic of Gilgamesh, the hero faces Humbaba and the Celestial Bull, two chaotic and destructive creatures. Although these figures are not snakes, they embody forces similar to those of Apophis.
Apophis in modern and contemporary culture
The figure of Apophis was not limited to the pages of ancient sacred texts or mythological stories. She continues to be influential in modern and contemporary culture in many ways.
Science and Astronomy
Perhaps the most literal incarnation of Apophis in the modern world is asteroid 99942 Apophis, named in honor of the Egyptian deity. This asteroid, discovered in 2004, was initially considered to pose a significant risk of collision with Earth. Although later estimates have greatly reduced this probability, the choice of name reflects the continuing perception of Apophis as a potentially destructive cosmic threat.
Media and Entertainment
In fiction, television, and video games, Apophis frequently appears as an antagonist. For example, in the television series “Stargate SG-1,” Apophis is a main villain, a Goa'uld lord who seeks to conquer the universe. This kind of representation capitalizes on the image of Apophis as the incarnation of evil and chaos.
Literature and Comics
Apophis has also found its place in modern literature, particularly in genres like fantasy or the paranormal. Novels, comics, and book series for children and adolescents have used it as a powerful character or symbol to represent chaotic or evil forces.
Symbolism and Popular Culture
The symbol of the serpent, so closely linked to Apophis, is a recurring element in popular culture, often associated with duplicity, danger or evil. Although not all representations of snakes are directly linked to Apophis, the evil serpent archetype is clearly an extension of this ancient myth.
Academic Studies and Spirituality
Finally, Apophis continues to be a subject of study in academic fields such as Egyptology, comparative theology, and the history of religions. In some neo-pagan or occult practices, Apophis is sometimes invoked or discussed as a force of chaos necessary for the balance of the world, thus reflecting more nuanced understandings of its role in mythology.
In short, the figure of Apophis is far from being relegated to the annals of ancient history. It continues to live on in our collective imagination, an enduring witness to the human attraction to myths and metaphors that attempt to explain the complex forces at work in the universe.
His story in pictures
Other deities than the god Apophis