Isis is a major deity in Egyptian mythology. The name “Isis” comes from the Greek “Isis”, which is a transcription of the Egyptian name “Aset” which means “throne”. She was the goddess of motherhood, magic, fertility, love and wisdom.
Origins and symbols of Isis
Isis is the daughter of Geb, god of the Earth, and Nout, Goddess of Heaven. She is also the sister and wife ofOsiris, god of the dead and the resurrection. Together they have a son, Horus, god of the sky and protector of the pharaohs. Isis is often represented with a headdress in the shape of a throne or a crown in the shape of a cow, symbols of her fertility and her role as a mother.
The cult of Isis: devotion and rituals
Isis enjoyed considerable popularity in ancient Egypt and was venerated in many temples dedicated to her worship. Devotees gathered to celebrate and honor the goddess in festivals and processions, imploring her support and protection.
Isis and magic
The goddess Isis was renowned for her knowledge of magic and for her healing powers. She gained great fame when she discovered the secret name of Ra, the sun god, using magic to coerce him into revealing his name by having him stung by a scorpion. His mastery of magic also allowed him to bring Osiris back to life after he was killed by his brother Seth.
The myth of Isis and Osiris
In the mythological tale of Isis and Osiris, Isis plays a vital role in reassembling the dismembered body parts ofOsiris and bringing him back to life through his magic. This resurrection symbolizes the victory of life over death and leads to the birth of their son Horus, who will become the protective god of the pharaohs.
Influence of Isis on other Egyptian deities
Isis had close relationships with many other gods in Egyptian mythology, such as Ra, Anubis et Thoth. She was often depicted in the company of these gods, emphasizing their interconnection and complementarity. As mother goddess and protector, Isis wielded tremendous influence over Egyptian religion and culture, embodying love, compassion, and feminine power.
artistic symbols and representations
The iconography of Isis in Egyptian art is rich and diverse, reflecting the complexity and importance of this goddess in Egyptian mythology. The various depictions of Isis highlight her attributes and symbolic associations, as well as her role as a protective, healing and mother goddess.
Isis and the throne
One of the most characteristic symbols of Isis is the throne. As a throne goddess, she is often depicted wearing a throne-like headdress, symbolizing her role as protector and upholder of royal power. This symbol also recalls the etymology of its Egyptian name, “Aset”.
The winged goddess
Isis is frequently depicted with outstretched wings, symbolizing her role as protector and guardian. The wings also reflect her connection to the moon goddess and her ability to fly between the worlds of the living and the dead to watch over her devotees.
The foster mother
As the goddess of motherhood and fertility, Isis is often depicted nursing her son Horus. This image emphasizes her role as a nurturing and protective mother, not only for Horus, but also for the Egyptian pharaohs and devotees.
Associations with other deities
Iconography of Isis may also include depictions of the goddess alongside other Egyptian deities, emphasizing their interconnectedness and complementarity. For example, she is often represented with Osiris, her husband, and Horus, their son, thus forming the trinity of Osiris-Isis-Horus. In some depictions, she is also associated with the goddess Hathor, another goddess of love and beauty, reflecting their complementarity and mutual connection.
Isis and the Ankh
The Ankh, symbol of eternal life, is often associated with Isis because of its role in the resurrection of Osiris and the protection of life. In some depictions, Isis holds an Ankh, emphasizing her mastery of magic and her ability to give life and heal.
His story in pictures
Egyptian deities other than Isis