1. Light and Heat: Ra was considered the giver of light and heat, essential for life on Earth. He was believed to rise each morning from the eastern horizon, bringing forth the sun and illuminating the world. His rays provided warmth and energy, sustaining all living beings.
2. Creation: Ra was closely linked to the act of creation. He was often depicted as the creator god, responsible for bringing order out of chaos and giving birth to the universe, gods, and humans. He was seen as the ultimate source of life and existence.
3. Travel Across the Sky: Ra was believed to travel across the sky in a solar boat, often called the "solar barque." He embarked on this journey each day, and his movements were considered crucial to maintaining the balance and order of the universe.
4. Overcoming Darkness: Ra was associated with the victory of light over darkness. He was often depicted battling against the forces of chaos and darkness, symbolized by the god Apophis or Apep, a giant serpent. His triumph over darkness ensured the continuation of day and the return of light.
5. Protection and Healing: Ra was regarded as a protective deity, believed to shield his followers from harm and provide healing. His presence was thought to bring health and well-being to individuals and the land.
6. Justice and Order: Ra was connected to the concepts of justice and order, maintaining harmony in the universe. He was believed to oversee the affairs of the world, ensuring that justice prevailed and chaos was averted.
7. Rebirth and Resurrection: Ra was also associated with the cycle of death and rebirth. He was believed to rejuvenate himself each morning, rising from the underworld to bring forth the sun. This aspect linked him to the concept of resurrection and eternal life.
8. Ruler of the Divine Realm: As the supreme sun god, Ra held a position of great power and authority among the Egyptian gods. He was considered the ruler of the divine realm, respected and revered by all other deities.
9. Patron of Pharaohs: Ra was closely associated with the pharaohs of Egypt. He was seen as their divine patron, providing them with legitimacy and authority to rule. The pharaohs often identified themselves with Ra and incorporated solar symbolism into their royal iconography.
10. Sacred Symbols: Ra was commonly represented by various sacred symbols, including the sun disc, the scarab beetle, and the falcon. These symbols represented his power, divine nature, and connection to the sun.