Horus

The Egyptian god of kingship, sky, and protection

Horus is one of the most significant and revered gods in Egyptian mythology, often depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon’s head. Horus embodies divine authority and the balance of order.

Family

Horus is the son of Osiris, the god of the afterlife, and Isis, the goddess of magic and motherhood. His birth occurred under extraordinary circumstances. After Set, Horus’ uncle, murdered Osiris and dismembered his body, Isis used her magical abilities to reassemble her husband and conceive Horus. As the posthumous son of Osiris, Horus was destined to avenge his father and reclaim the throne of Egypt.

The struggle with Set

The central myth of Horus revolves around his rivalry with Set, who had usurped the throne by killing Osiris. After growing up in hiding under the care of Isis to protect him from Set’s wrath, Horus came of age and challenged his uncle for rulership. This conflict was not merely physical but also deeply symbolic, representing the battle between order and chaos.

Their battles were fierce and lengthy, with many dramatic episodes. In one story, Set gouged out Horus’ eye, which was later restored by the god Thoth. This act gave rise to the Eye of Horus, a symbol of healing, restoration, and protection. In another tale, Horus managed to castrate Set, symbolizing the ultimate weakening of chaos.

The gods themselves became involved in their conflict, and a divine tribunal was held to determine who was the rightful ruler. Although the gods debated extensively, Horus eventually triumphed, with the gods declaring him the legitimate king of Egypt.

Kingship and legacy

As the victor, Horus was crowned king, and his reign marked the restoration of harmony and the triumph of Ma’at. In Egyptian belief, the living pharaoh was considered the earthly incarnation of Horus, making the god a symbol of divine authority and the protector of the realm. His victory over Set ensured that he was also seen as a defender of Egypt against chaos and foreign threats.

Horus’ dual role as a celestial deity and a symbol of earthly kingship is reflected in his association with the sky. His two eyes were believed to represent the sun and the moon, with his flight symbolizing the heavens’ vast expanse.

The Eye of Horus

The Eye of Horus became one of the most powerful symbols in ancient Egypt. It was a talisman of protection, health, and rebirth. The symbol was widely used in amulets, jewelry, and art, believed to ward off evil and bring prosperity.

Rebirth

1st Age –  Dr. Kincaid “Cade” Reece, Jr.