The pharaohs of the Old Kingdom were responsible for a wide range of duties, including:
- Maintaining the maat or cosmic order, which included ensuring the proper functioning of the universe, the balance of nature, and the well-being of the Egyptian people.
- Leading religious rituals and ceremonies, such as the Sed festival, which marked the renewal of the pharaoh's power and the coronation ceremony, which established his authority.
- Administering justice and enforcing the law.
- Building and maintaining temples, pyramids, and other public works projects.
- Commanding the military and defending the kingdom from foreign invaders.
- Leading trade missions and establishing trade relations with other countries.
- Appointing government officials and overseeing the administration of the country.
- Collecting taxes and managing the kingdom's finances.
- Providing for the needs of the Egyptian people, such as food, water, and shelter.
- Promoting art, literature, and culture.