The Theban Theology

The Theban theology

illustration from Egyptian Mysteries; p.11 (Thames & Hudson, Art and Imagination Series) The Theban theology, like the Memphite theology, is based on a primordial triad. In this case it is the triad of Amun, Mut and Khonsu. The Theban myth of creation is somewhat complicated and wrapped in obscure symbolism. As Lucy Lamy explains: At the origin of time, there existed a serpent, Kam-at-f, 'he who has accomplished his time'. As his name indicates, this serpent ceased to exist when his time was past. He had, however, a son, Ir-ta, 'Creator of the Earth'. Ir-ta continued the work of his father and created the Eight Primordials of Hermopolis, among whom of course we find Amun, who declares himself to be the initial serpent, and Amonet. The genealogy is presented as follows, in terms of four generations: The serpent Kam-at-f, assimilated to Amun-Re of Karnak. The serpent Ir-ta, assimilated to Min-Amun of Luxor. The Eight Primordials, one of whom is Amun, who thus re-generates himself. The solar child who comes forth from the lotus at Hermopolis, in other words Re, product of the Fight Primordials, and also assimilated to Amun.