Egypt's New Kingdom and Religious Traditions

New Kingdom

Era of Egyptian imperialism, lasting from 1530 to 1070 BCE, characterized by the Egyptian Empire and expansion of borders.

Valley of the Kings

Preferred burial site of New Kingdom pharaohs, located across the Nile River from Thebes.

Polytheistic

Religious tradition of the Egyptians, involving a large number of gods associated with heavenly bodies and natural forces.

Sun god

Incredibly important deity in Egyptian religion, with Atum and Ra being prominent forms.

Amarna Period

Period initiated by Pharaoh Akhenaten, lasting from 1350 to 1325 BCE, known for its state-sponsored monotheism.

Aten

Deity worshipped during the Middle Kingdom, elevated to the creator god associated with sunlight during the Amarna Period.

Great Temple of Aten

Constructed in the new capital during the Amarna Period, emphasizing Akhenaten's unique access to the afterlife and communication with Aten.

Atenism

Brief example of monotheism in the region, particularly associated with the worship of Aten during the Amarna Period.

Ramesses II

Prominent Egyptian pharaoh (1279-1213 BCE) who regained control of Canaan but ultimately marked the end of the Egyptian empire.

Saqqara

Necropolis in Egypt, known for its ancient burial grounds and structures.

Nubia

Region south of Aswan, notable for its relationship with ancient Egypt and the emergence of kingdoms such as Kerma and Kush.

Kerma

Ancient kingdom (c. 2400 BCE to 1500 BCE) in Nubia, prospering due to productive agriculture and abundant natural resources.

Kush

Kingdom (c. 1000 BCE to 300 CE) in Nubia, influenced by Egyptian culture and at times controlling Egypt.

Nubian Temples

Ancient temples in Nubia, reflecting the region's historical and cultural significance.