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There were four theories; however, each theory holds that in the
beginning, only a primordial, stagnant ocean called Nu existed. In
addition, the four theories agree that out of Nu, rose the primeval hill.
Each cosmology believed it was their temple that stood on this hill. The
first step-pyramids are no doubt symbolic of this mound. All
cosmologies share the belief that creation was a slow process, not
catastrophic. Finally, they also all agree that there was a "First Time,
or a time period when the gods actually lived on earth.
Heliopolitan cosmogony
the Heliopolitan cosmogony develops the myth further. The first event
was the creation of Amun, the god of Heliopolis. There is dispute over
whether he created himself, or was the son of Nu. Some texts say he first
appeared over the hill, others say he was, himself, the hill. Eventually,
Atum became associated with Ra, the sun-god. Ra-Atum at this point is
said to be the coming of the light to disperse the darkness of Nu.
His next task was to create other gods. He did this by masturbation, not
having a mate. This was not offensive to ancient Egyptians, but in fact
intensified his power in their minds. Ra-Amun gave birth by spitting out
twins: Shu,the god of the air and Tefnut, goddess of world order. Shu
and Tefnut gave birth to Geb, god of the earth, and his wife and sister,
Nut, goddess of the sky. Geb and Nut, in turn, were the parents of Isis,
Osiris, Nephthys, and Set. Horus, another god was the son of Isis and
Osiris.
Creator gods--Amun
Creator godsRa or Re
Creator, solar
Heliopolis
Creator god--Ptah
Creator, craftsman
Memphis
Creator god--Aten
Osiris
Seth
Death of Osiris
Osiris
Isis
Seth
Hathor
Hathor continued
Bastet
Daughter of Ra,
protective goddess
Bes
Leonine dwarf
who helped women
in childbirth
Sekhmet:Lioness-headed
goddess of healing
Animal mummies
Ibis symbolizing
akhtransfigured
spirit