The Mysteries of Ancient Egypt: An Illustrated Reference to the Myths, Religions, Pyramids and Temples of the Land of the Pharaohs

by Lorna Oakes, Lucia Gahlin

A beautiful and scholarly volume exploring the ancient tombs and burial sites, and their mythology.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Egypt

512 pages, Paperback

First published April 18, 2003

Reviews

[Aakanksha Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

The mysteries of ancient Egypt is one of my favorite reads till now. This book is a fascinating guide to the mythology and religion of ancient Egypt, and to the awe-inspiring temples and tombs of the world's first great civilization. With maps, chronologies, and artworks supplementing with photographs, this book captures the essence of this fascinating epoch.

This book has chronological charts of events that happened in ancient Egypt. The ancient Egyptians emerged about 5,000 years ago and the society flourished for three millennia. Their most striking monuments - notably the pyramids and the Great Sphinx at Giza, and the royal tombs in the valley of the Kings - were tourist attractions in Classical times just as they are today.

The atmosphere created of mystery and speculation by ancient Egyptians gave a rise to a superstition that survived into the modern age. Religion was a fundamental part of the life of every Egyptian. Many archaeological sites were the focus of religious activity. For most of its ancient history, Egypt was ruled by all-powerful kings or pharaohs. This book is divided into two parts. First, consist of all the sacred sites of ancient Egypt. Second, consisting of Gods, myths and religion of ancient Egypt. I like the second part most.

This book is an illustrated reference to the myths, religions, pyramids, and temples of the land of the pharaohs. A compelling guide to the most famous burial sites, including Giza, Saqqara and the Valley of the Kings. It's like a tour to sacred sites from the impressive mortuary temples of the pharaohs to those dedicated to the many Gods and Goddesses. The author did an in-depth search before writing. It has information of the crucial role that religious beliefs and mythology played in one of the most intriguing periods of ancient history.

I find so many interesting facts about Egypt in this book. Egypt was one of the earliest places to accept Christianity, which was said to have been introduced in the middle of the first century AD by St Mark. Stories or myths evolved in all cultures in order to provide a divine explanation for the fundamentals of human existence. Many sources reveal that the King was identified with a God, both in life and after death.

The people of ancient Egypt were terrified by the prospect of dying away from their beloved Egypt in case this meant they would not be buried close to the Nile, and would not receive the all-important funeral. The intriguing process of mummification developed because of the belief that the survival of the body was necessary in order to reborn into the Afterlife.

Magic and superstition played a crucial part in daily life and were by no means considered unorthodox or an alternative to the religion of the state temples. A priest used to perform rituals in the cult of a state deity could also be called upon to carry out what we would term magic or sorcery. State and popular religion were clearly interrelated.

The Egyptian history is vast and it is very difficult, to sum up, all the possible information in one book. The author tried her best in doing so. I like the detailed information on every topic. But sometimes the pictures and content are used again and again. I don't like that very much. This book is lavishly illustrated with more than 750 photographs. But I really recommend this book, especially to all the history lovers. It's a must-read.

Actual rating - 4.5 stars
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[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thorough and detailed information on all aspects of Egyptian life. There is so much information that this book takes a much longer time to read than it looks like it should, but it is definitely an excellent reference book.

[Mdspevack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good read although a bit on the heavy side.

[Paul Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to the 3,000 year history of Ancient Egypt. Though not an academic book filled with great detail, the book still gives a general and readable outline of this magnificent and enduring civilisation. Various sites of interest such as the step pyramid of Pharaoh Djoser, the pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings are detailed - as well as burial practices (mummification), religious centres and temples, and how the Egyptians viewed death and the afterlife through their myths and gods. The book is also filled with numerous and stunning illustrations all of them in colour. As both a student and a writer on Ancient Egypt, I would highly recommend this book to anyone, even those who may not be particularly interest in reading about Ancient Egyptian civilisation. I found it an enjoyable book to read.

[Joelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is much longer than it appears, but I think if you enjoy learning about Ancient Egypt, then this is a good book.
Goes into depth on the culture of Pharoanic society!

[Ahmed]

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