History of Africa

How did Egyptians think the world began?

According to ancient Egyptian myths, the world began with a watery chaos called Nun. From Nun, the creator god Atum emerged. Atum was both male and female and contained all the elements of the universe within himself. He created the first gods and goddesses, including Shu (air) and Tefnut (moisture), who in turn created the earth and sky.

The Egyptians also believed that the pharaoh was a direct descendant of Atum and that he had the power to create and maintain order in the universe. The pharaoh's role was to keep the forces of chaos at bay and to ensure the prosperity of Egypt.