Stuff To Blow Your Mind Ancient Egyptian Curses, Part 2
Oct 2, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian curses! Explore how magic and religion intertwined within these rituals. Discover the various types of curses, from personal to cosmic. Unravel the mystery of tomb inscriptions warning intruders and the concept of 'divine compulsion' that influenced readers. Learn about the media frenzy surrounding Tutankhamun's tomb and whether a curse truly existed. Finally, uncover the realities behind tomb protections and the myths of malevolent traps.
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Magic Woven Into Religion
- Ancient Egyptian magic and temple religion were inseparable and practiced by the same authorities.
- Hekka (magical power) was morally neutral and used to heal, protect, or harm depending on intent.
Named Enemies In Political Curses
- Execration rituals named enemies on clay vessels then destroyed them to magically bind or harm those foes.
- Political curses often targeted rulers, their retainers, and potential internal rebels to preempt threats.
Divine Compulsion Cuts Both Ways
- Some tomb inscriptions invoke divine compulsion that can compel readers either to harm or to honor the dead.
- The same divine force could enforce offerings or inflict punishment depending on context.
