Magic in Ancient Egyptian Religion
-Historical Background and Moses’ Encounter with the Magicians-
Ancient Egypt has long been associated with magic and mystery by surrounding
societies. For the ancient Egyptians, magic was an integral
part of a wide range of practices and beliefs, extending from everyday
life and religious rituals to protection against illness, death, and beliefs
concerning the afterlife. Archaeological finds, surviving magical papyri,
amulets, and various objects constitute important sources for understanding
the place and uses of magic in ancient Egyptian society. This
book examines what magic meant in ancient Egypt within its religious,
mythological, and historical context, focusing on magical practices and
their place in ancient Egyptian thought. It also addresses another issue
closely related to the magical tradition of ancient Egypt: the encounter
of the Prophet Moses with Pharaoh and the magicians. This episode,
recounted from different perspectives in various surahs of the Qur’an,
is examined and evaluated within the religious and mythological world
of ancient Egypt.
Keywords: History of Religions; Death and the Afterlife; Ancient World;
Magic; Moses and the Magicians