The 'Hadeel' then cruises on to Kom Ombo and Edfu - on the way to Aswan, the Temple of Isis - and the 'Old Cataract Hotel'
And it was another beautiful morning - with breakfast on the main deck - where the previous evening they had their evening meal.
"So, Teddy, tell us about Kom Ombo...", Josh asked.
"Well....", and Teddy paused and looked round, just to check that no one was making fun of him.
 |
| Nubian Boy in the Sugar Cane |
It was originally an Egyptian city called 'Nubt', meaning 'City of Gold'.
It became a Greek settlement during the Greco-Roman Period.
The town's location on the Nile, 31 miles north of Aswan, gave it some control over trade routes from Nubia in the south, to the Nile Valley, but its main rise to prominence came with the building of the Temple of Kom Ombo in the 2nd century BC.
Ombos was a garrison town under every dynasty of Egypt, as well as the Ptolemaic Kingdom and Roman Egypt, and was celebrated for the magnificence of its temples, and its feud with the people of Dendera - north of Luxor.
 |
| Farm Land - Kom Ombo - Upper Egyot |
Most of the 60,000 villagers are native Egyptians, although there is a large population of Nubians, who were displaced from their land upon the creation of Lake Nasser.", Teddy explained, and unaccountably stopped
"And...?", Glen asked.
"And nothing...", Teddy replied.
"The rest will come when we visit the Temple...", Teddy insisted.
For the rest of the morning the 'Hadeel' made its leisurely way up the Nile - ever southward.
The 'boys'. not surprisingly, lounged about on the upper deck, taking advantage of the ever warmer sun.
Very soon, as they passed river banks bordering lush fields full of sugar-cane and palms, the town of Kom Ombo came into sight.
As midday arrived, the 'Hadeel' moored so that lunch could be taken - and it was after lunch that the trip was made to the temple.
Captain Hossam had moored a little away from the temple so that they were not close to the busy part of the town... Jim always liked to be discreet.
The limos then took them all to the temple itself.
Once they were facing the temple, Teddy got Ethan to distribute some of the inevitable 'visual aids'.
For the rest of the morning the 'Hadeel' made its leisurely way up the Nile - ever southward.
 |
| Kom Ombo Town - Egypt |
Very soon, as they passed river banks bordering lush fields full of sugar-cane and palms, the town of Kom Ombo came into sight.
As midday arrived, the 'Hadeel' moored so that lunch could be taken - and it was after lunch that the trip was made to the temple.
Captain Hossam had moored a little away from the temple so that they were not close to the busy part of the town... Jim always liked to be discreet.
 |
| Plan of Kom Ombo Temple |
Once they were facing the temple, Teddy got Ethan to distribute some of the inevitable 'visual aids'.
"Well this plan doesn't look much like what's here...", Max said.
"That's true, Max... but that plan is what it looked like when it was first built....
But let me show you what it looked like when it was first discovered by Europeans...", Teddy said, as Ethan handed him another sheaf of laminated pages.
"So who painted this....?", Josh asked.
"A Scottish painter called David Roberts who came to Egypt in 1838... so as you can see quite a lot of excavation has been done since then."
"Sorry to interrupt...", Jim said, "but I thought it would be best if Ismail, as he is our expert on ancient Egyptian gods, could tell us about Sobek, and maybe also Horus, as I understand from Teddy that these are the two gods mainly connected with this temple."
Ismail was a little taken aback, particularly when being described as an 'expert on ancient Egyptian gods'... but began to do his best...
"So ... 'Sobek'... well he was a god in the form of a crocodile...
He is usually shown as a Nile crocodile or the West African crocodile, or also as a man with a crocodile head.
Sobek was associated with the pharaoh, fertility, and military power but was also a protective deity.
Sobek is honored right from the time of the Old Kingdom of Egypt - which was about 2686 until 2181 BCE - up to the Roman period of about 30 BCE until 350 CE.
Sobek is first named in several of the 'Pyramid Texts' of the Old Kingdom, where he is described as the 'living form' of the crocodile god.
Sobek became important in the Middle Kingdom - about 2055–1650 BCE under the Twelfth Dynasty pharaoh, Amenemhat III.
That Pharaoh had taken interest in the Faiyum of Egypt, a region associated with Sobek.
Amenemhat and many other Pharaohs of that time built temples to Sobek in the Faiyum.
During that time Sobek also changed, and was often connected with the falcon-headed god of kingship, Horus.
This brought Sobek even closer with the kings of Egypt, making him more important in the Egyptian religion, and he became part of the group of Horus and his two parents: Osiris and Isis.
"That's true, Max... but that plan is what it looked like when it was first built....
 |
| Kom Ombo - David Roberts |
"So who painted this....?", Josh asked.
"A Scottish painter called David Roberts who came to Egypt in 1838... so as you can see quite a lot of excavation has been done since then."
"Sorry to interrupt...", Jim said, "but I thought it would be best if Ismail, as he is our expert on ancient Egyptian gods, could tell us about Sobek, and maybe also Horus, as I understand from Teddy that these are the two gods mainly connected with this temple."
 |
| David Roberts - 1844 |
"So ... 'Sobek'... well he was a god in the form of a crocodile...
 |
| Sobek |
Sobek was associated with the pharaoh, fertility, and military power but was also a protective deity.
Sobek is honored right from the time of the Old Kingdom of Egypt - which was about 2686 until 2181 BCE - up to the Roman period of about 30 BCE until 350 CE.
Sobek is first named in several of the 'Pyramid Texts' of the Old Kingdom, where he is described as the 'living form' of the crocodile god.
Sobek became important in the Middle Kingdom - about 2055–1650 BCE under the Twelfth Dynasty pharaoh, Amenemhat III.
That Pharaoh had taken interest in the Faiyum of Egypt, a region associated with Sobek.
 |
| Sobek - Modern Interpretation with Solar Disk of Ra |
During that time Sobek also changed, and was often connected with the falcon-headed god of kingship, Horus.
This brought Sobek even closer with the kings of Egypt, making him more important in the Egyptian religion, and he became part of the group of Horus and his two parents: Osiris and Isis.
 |
| Horus - Modern Interpretation |
This importance went on into Ptolemaic and Roman Egypt, and this temple - here at Kom Ombo - which Teddy will tell you about - is Ptolemaic.
It should be remembered here that Ismail is Egyptian, and therefore his English is not quite so fluent as Teddy's, and his vocabulary is more limited, however, the information that he offers regarding Egyptian divinities is excellent, and very accurate.
"So tell us more about the crocodiles..." Glen, rather predictably asked Ismail.
"Well... I think that Teddy can tell you about the crocodiles better than me."
Teddy - ever the perfect 'gentleman', (or should that be the perfect 'gentle-teddy'), said nothing.
"Go on then, Teddy...", Max said encouragingly.
"If you insist...", Teddy said, "but first I need to say something about the temple, or should that be temples ?", Teddy said. attempting to get everyone's' attention by using the plural.
"Now as Max said to me earlier, there wasn't much here, and that's true, as the site has been plundered over the centuries, but what we do have are the unusual remains of a 'double temple' - which is related to what Ismail said about the connection between Sobek and Horus.
"A 'triad' is a group of three, Ethan - like a trio..." Teddy replied.
"And how come that 'creep' Khonsu keeps getting in on the act ?", 'Sigi' asked.
"Well, he's a very important 'god' - or more correctly 'neter'.", Teddy replied, intent on changing the subject.
"As I think I mentioned before, Sobek and Horus are the two main 'gods', and so the temple was also known as 'The House of the Crocodile' - (for Sobek) and 'The Castle of the Falcon” - (for Horus).
The first pharaoh referred to in the temple is Ptolemy VI 'Philomator'.
A number of his successors including Ptolemy XII 'Neos Dionysus' - 'The New God Dionysus' - and Ptolemy XIII - who built the outer and inner hypostyle halls - also added to the site.
There were also additions to the decorations in the forecourt during the Roman Period, and an outer corridor was added to the structure.
The outer enclosure wall and part of the court were built by the Roman Emperor Octavian Augustus sometime after 30 BC, and are mostly gone.
Eventually the temple was 'harvested' for building materials.
As a result, it is in a fairly advanced state of ruin - as you can see...", Teddy explained.
"So ... what about the crocodiles ?", Glen asked.
"Later...",Teddy replied.
Teddy then got Ethan to hand out some more detailed plans of the temple - (Teddy's infamous 'visual aids').
"My, you've been busy, Teddy...", Zac said, as he tried to decide which was the right way up to look at the plan.
"Although the layout of the 'Temple of Sobek and Horus' here reflects that of the Temples of Deandrea and Edfu, the chambers are duplicated along the main axis to reflect the duality of the temple.", Teddy continued, ignoring Zac's comment.
Nobody was really sure what Teddy meant - but they just let him get on with it, and didn't ask any questions.
"There is a double entrance, twin courts and colonnades, two hypostyle halls and two inner sanctuaries.
It is often suggested that there may have been two sets of priests who separately tended to their respective 'gods'.
The left side of the building - to the north-west - was dedicated to Horus, who was associated with Lower Egypt - which was in the north - while the right side of the building - further south-east, and so associated with Upper Egypt - was dedicated to Sobek - who was sometimes associated with the god Set, a patron of Upper Egypt."....
"Well... I think that Teddy can tell you about the crocodiles better than me."
Teddy - ever the perfect 'gentleman', (or should that be the perfect 'gentle-teddy'), said nothing.
 |
| Double Temple at Kom Ombo - Upper Egypt |
"If you insist...", Teddy said, "but first I need to say something about the temple, or should that be temples ?", Teddy said. attempting to get everyone's' attention by using the plural.
"Now as Max said to me earlier, there wasn't much here, and that's true, as the site has been plundered over the centuries, but what we do have are the unusual remains of a 'double temple' - which is related to what Ismail said about the connection between Sobek and Horus.
 |
| Reconstruction of the Ptolemaic Temple of Sobek - Kom Ombo - Egypt |
"But to get back to the temple...", - and they literally did, walking to the entrance...
"Kom Ombo stands by the Nile - as you can see - just south of Gebel el-Silsila, between Aswan and Edfu, at the site of the ancient city of 'Per Sobek' which is ancient Egyptian for 'the Estate of Sobek'.
The Temple of Sobek and Horus is a very unconventional temple in that it is dedicated to two triads of deities; Sobek, Hathor and their child Khonsu, and Horus - also known as Haroeris - Tasenetnofret, called 'the good sister', and their child, Panebtawy, who was known as 'the Lord of the Two Lands'...", Teddy continued.
"Woh !... that's complicated... and what does 'triad-thingy' mean ?", Ethan asked."A 'triad' is a group of three, Ethan - like a trio..." Teddy replied.
"And how come that 'creep' Khonsu keeps getting in on the act ?", 'Sigi' asked.
"Well, he's a very important 'god' - or more correctly 'neter'.", Teddy replied, intent on changing the subject.
"As I think I mentioned before, Sobek and Horus are the two main 'gods', and so the temple was also known as 'The House of the Crocodile' - (for Sobek) and 'The Castle of the Falcon” - (for Horus).
The first pharaoh referred to in the temple is Ptolemy VI 'Philomator'.
A number of his successors including Ptolemy XII 'Neos Dionysus' - 'The New God Dionysus' - and Ptolemy XIII - who built the outer and inner hypostyle halls - also added to the site.
There were also additions to the decorations in the forecourt during the Roman Period, and an outer corridor was added to the structure.
The outer enclosure wall and part of the court were built by the Roman Emperor Octavian Augustus sometime after 30 BC, and are mostly gone.
Eventually the temple was 'harvested' for building materials.
As a result, it is in a fairly advanced state of ruin - as you can see...", Teddy explained.
"So ... what about the crocodiles ?", Glen asked.
"Later...",Teddy replied.
 |
| Plan of the Temple at Kom Ombo - Upper Egypt |
"My, you've been busy, Teddy...", Zac said, as he tried to decide which was the right way up to look at the plan.
"Although the layout of the 'Temple of Sobek and Horus' here reflects that of the Temples of Deandrea and Edfu, the chambers are duplicated along the main axis to reflect the duality of the temple.", Teddy continued, ignoring Zac's comment.
Nobody was really sure what Teddy meant - but they just let him get on with it, and didn't ask any questions.
"There is a double entrance, twin courts and colonnades, two hypostyle halls and two inner sanctuaries.
It is often suggested that there may have been two sets of priests who separately tended to their respective 'gods'.
The left side of the building - to the north-west - was dedicated to Horus, who was associated with Lower Egypt - which was in the north - while the right side of the building - further south-east, and so associated with Upper Egypt - was dedicated to Sobek - who was sometimes associated with the god Set, a patron of Upper Egypt."....
 |
| 'Mammisi' - Birth House - Kom Ombo Temple - Egypt |
"What's this 'Birth House-thingy', Teddy ?".
"Hmm...", Teddy grunted, not entirely happy at being interrupted at that point.
"Well, a 'birth house', also called called a 'mammisi', is a small temple with a very specific and unique function.
The word 'mammisi', derived from the ancient Egyptian word 'per-meset', not surprisingly means 'house or place of birth', and is a small building never independent, but always accompanying the larger temple.
 |
| Temple of Isis - Philae - Upper Egypt |
The birth of a 'child-god' was identified with the rising sun, which was revived everyday, so a celebration of the god’s rebirths had a cosmic meaning, and was tied up with the annual revival of 'ma’at' - the Egyptian idea of 'universal order'.
This idea was also associated with the birth of a Pharaoh, who was perceived as a 'young god'.
The first Ptolemaic 'birth house' was erected beside the temple of Isis on the island of Philae during the reign of Ptolemy II 'Philadelphus', and Ptolemy III 'Euergetes' and was dedicated to the young Horus.
Hopefully we will be seeing that 'mammisi', and the 'Temple of Isis' quite soon, when we reach Aswan."..
Teddy then gave the group a quick guided tour...
"Passing into the temple’s forecourt, where the reliefs are divided between the two 'gods', there is a double altar in the centre of the court for both gods.
Beyond are the shared inner and outer 'hypostyle halls', each with 10 columns.
Inside the outer hypostyle hall, to the left is a relief showing Ptolemy XII 'Neos Dionysus' (New Dionysus) with the Egyptian 'god' Thoth.
The walls to the right show the crowning of Ptolemy XII by Nekhbet - the vulture-goddess and Wadjet - the snake-goddess - with the dual crown of Upper and Lower Egypt.
Reliefs in the inner hypostyle hall show Ptolemy VIII 'Euergetes'.
Behind Ptolemy is his 'sister-wife' and co-ruler, Cleopatra II.
From here, three antechambers, each with double entrances, lead to the sanctuaries of Sobek and Horus.
Near the Ptolemaic gateway on the southeast corner of the complex is a small shrine to Hathor.
Beyond this, to the north, you will find the deep well that supplied the temple with water, and close by is a small pool in which crocodiles, Sobek’s sacred animal, were raised." Teddy concluded.
At that point Jim had something to say, which was unusual.
"Now I speak a little Greek, and I notice that these Pharaohs that you have ben mentioning have Greek titles, like 'Euergetes' - so why is that."....
Now Jim was not being entirely honest, as he in fact spoke perfect Classical, and also Koine Greek - and he actually knew that answer to his question, but just wanted to make it clear to Max and Glen regarding this late period in Egyptian history.
"Right then...", Teddy began, realizing what was going on...
"Well, the Pharaohs that I think Jim means were all descendant of Ptolemy Lagus, who was a Greek general, and close friend of Alexander the Great.
After Alexander's death in 323 BCE, Ptolemy took over Egypt, and made himself Pharaoh as Ptolemy I 'Soter', which is Greek for 'Saviour'.
His descendants ruled Egypt as Pharaohs from 323 BCE until 30 BCE with the death of Cleopatra.", Teddy explained.
"So they weren't Egyptians ?", Max asked.
"No... they were all Greeks, and in most cases didn't speak the Ancient Egyptian language, and were unable to read Egyptian hieroglyphics", Teddy added.
"Weird...", Ethan commented, as they looked at the reliefs of the Pharaohs - who looked Egyptian, but were really Greek.
"So now for the crocodiles...", Teddy said, trying to make things a little less academic.
"Real, live crocodiles were kept in the Sobek temple.
Having been raised from newly hatched eggs - yes, crocodiles come from eggs, just like many other reptiles, dinosaurs and their close relatives, the birds - the crocodiles here at the Kom Ombo Temple were apparently 'tame'.
Not only were they 'tame', but they also wore gold and enamelled jewellery, and were fed daily by the priests.", Teddy explained
"The crocodiles kept in the Kom Ombo Temple, when they died, were usually mummified and given lavish burials on death... so now we can go to the 'Crocodile Museum' near this temple", Teddy suggested - and the 'boys' were only to keen to go and look at some real 'live', dead crocodiles - at least they were hoping they were all dead.
"Thanks a lot, guys !", Teddy grumbled, as he was deposited on one of the glass display cases, as the 'boys' all rushed off to get a look at the desiccated remains of the once mummified 'crocs'.
But Teddy didn't really mind, as they had all listened carefully to what he had to say previously, and had at least seemed interested.
Now Jim thought it might be nice to have a midday meal in Kom Ombo, and he asked Ismail to make some inquiries.
It turned out, however, that Kom Ombo was such a small town that there was only a rather 'run-down' cafeteria just outside the Temple precincts, so Jim decided that once everyone had seen enough of dead crocodiles they should return to the 'Hadeel' for lunch.
And so Jim eventually got everyone back to the road that skirted the temple, and got everyone into the limos.
During their absence the Hadeel had undergone a thorough 'wash and brush-up', (which reminded Ethan that Teddy was also due for a thorough brush), and the crew were expectantly awaiting for the return of their guests.
"Well, you've been seeing a lot of interesting places, and Teddy and Ismail have been giving you all a lot of interesting information, so I thought we should have a talk about some of that...", Faunus replied.
Ethan looked puzzled - but said nothing.
"Anyway... it's past lunch-time, so let's go up and have some lunch with the others... Jim suggested.
"Teddy decided to stay with the cats, and both Bastet and Sekhmet cuddled up beside Teddy, as they had done previously at the 'Winter Palace' - presumably they liked Teddy's fur.
Teddy, who had previously had a busy morning, then took the opportunity to 'switch off' for a while, (wisely leaving his 'movement sensors' on, however - just in case the cats decided to go off and do some exploring)..
The group was surprised when Faunus entered the dining-room....
"Salaam Sayyid Ali !", Hossam, the captain, said in greeting...
('salaam' means 'greetings'... and 'sayyid' is an exaggeratedly formal version of 'Mr.')
So it seemed that Faunus was quite right when he had suggested that the crew imagined that he had been on the dahabiya since Luxor.
"And did you enjoy your trip to the temple ?", Hossam asked.
"I didn't go... as I had some business to attend to, but I have seen it before...", Faunus (Ali) replied.
"Well of course... as you are a professional guide...", Hossam said... and Ethan couldn't help smirking.
"Well I thought it was very interesting...", Ethan said, smiling broadly.
"Yes... and I really liked the dead crocodiles...", Zac added.
"That's good...", Hossam replied, puzzled.
Captain Hossam was always nervous of Zac...
He was different to the other members of the group... slightly older, and more serious - more like 'Mr. Jim' - and he always appeared to be carrying a gun.
"So why did you bring the cats here, 'Ali' ?", Josh asked, playing along with Faunus' adopted identity.
"Well, I soon discovered that they were not planted on us, and are not 'aliens' in disguise - so it's quite safe to bring them with us.
And also... there are some beautiful gardens at the 'Cataract Hotel' in Aswan where they can play, and as we will be staying there for maybe a week, it would be good for them - after all, they are still kittens.
"I see.... and what does Teddy think about all this ?", Ethan asked.
"He likes the company...", Faunus said
"So ... you will be coming with us to Aswan, then ?...", Jim asked.
"Of course... and I want to see Edfu and the Temple of Isis." Faunus replied.
"But regardless... what have you all been thinking about your trip so far ?", Faunus asked.
"Well I think it's very interesting, but then we have Teddy and Ismail to tell us all about things, but for most tourists, without a proper guide, I think it would get boring pretty quickly...", Max said.
"True...", Glen agreed.
At that point Ethan's cell-phone sounded - and that was the moment when Faunus intended to have a serious discussion with the boys, but was diverted by Teddy and the cats.
"Oh... Teddy must have woken up...", Ethan said.
I think the door was left open..", Ethan said to Jim.
"Well....it's nothing to worry about....
They're both here...", Jim said.
"Mm... maybe they're hungry...", Ethan said, as he 'phoned Teddy to say the cats had been found.
"Do they always talk like that on the 'phone ?", Max asked Faunus... meaning Teddy and Ethan.
"I should think so.
It's a problem with Teddy's programming...
He can't hold a normal conversation on a 'phone - and I need to fix it sometime...", Faunus said.
"Well I think the cats would enjoy a plate of Nile Perch...", Ismail suggested.
"Why... is that tasty ?", Ethan asked.
"Here, in Upper Egypt, people think it a great delicacy...", Ismail explained.
After watching the two cats obviously enjoying their fish, Faunus returned to the original conversation.
"So what about here at Kom Ombo... what did you think of the crocodiles ?", Faunus asked.
"Well... the museum was interesting - but there was not much left of the temple..." Zac said.
"And it was very similar with Esna... not much left of the temple.", Glen added.
"Yes... but you have to remember how old these temples are...", Jim said.
"But you mentioned about the 'Cataract Hotel' - so tell us something about that..." Ethan asked, turning to Faunus
"Well.... it was built in 1899 for European travellers.
Its guests have included Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, Winston Churchill, Howard Carter - the guy who discovered Tutankhamen's tomb, Agatha Christie - best selling novelist, and many other famous people.", Faunus said.
"So it sounds a bit like the Old Winter Palace in Luxor...", 'Sigi' suggested.
Faunus nodded.
"So, if Faunus says that it's good, and says the kitties will like it, then I think I will .... so have we booked in for next week ?", Ethan asked Jim.
"Yes, Ethan ... no need to worry.", Jim replied, as Bastet jumped up onto his lap.
"Now we're nicely moored, and it's a fine afternoon, so why don't you, Max - and Ismail, go for a nice relaxing soak in the sun-deck Jacuzzi ?", Faunus suggested - in a way that couldn't be refused.
The first Ptolemaic 'birth house' was erected beside the temple of Isis on the island of Philae during the reign of Ptolemy II 'Philadelphus', and Ptolemy III 'Euergetes' and was dedicated to the young Horus.
Hopefully we will be seeing that 'mammisi', and the 'Temple of Isis' quite soon, when we reach Aswan."..
Teddy then gave the group a quick guided tour...
 |
| Plan of Mammisi - Kom Ombo - Upper Egypt |
Beyond are the shared inner and outer 'hypostyle halls', each with 10 columns.
Inside the outer hypostyle hall, to the left is a relief showing Ptolemy XII 'Neos Dionysus' (New Dionysus) with the Egyptian 'god' Thoth.
 |
| Dual Crown of Upper and Lower Egypt |
Reliefs in the inner hypostyle hall show Ptolemy VIII 'Euergetes'.
Behind Ptolemy is his 'sister-wife' and co-ruler, Cleopatra II.
From here, three antechambers, each with double entrances, lead to the sanctuaries of Sobek and Horus.
Near the Ptolemaic gateway on the southeast corner of the complex is a small shrine to Hathor.
Beyond this, to the north, you will find the deep well that supplied the temple with water, and close by is a small pool in which crocodiles, Sobek’s sacred animal, were raised." Teddy concluded.
At that point Jim had something to say, which was unusual.
"Now I speak a little Greek, and I notice that these Pharaohs that you have ben mentioning have Greek titles, like 'Euergetes' - so why is that."....
Now Jim was not being entirely honest, as he in fact spoke perfect Classical, and also Koine Greek - and he actually knew that answer to his question, but just wanted to make it clear to Max and Glen regarding this late period in Egyptian history.
(if you don't understand why Jim speaks and understands Greek go to 'Part I - Book I - Chapter XI')Ethan gave Jim an odd look...
"Right then...", Teddy began, realizing what was going on...
 |
| Pharaoh Ptolemy I 'Soter' |
After Alexander's death in 323 BCE, Ptolemy took over Egypt, and made himself Pharaoh as Ptolemy I 'Soter', which is Greek for 'Saviour'.
His descendants ruled Egypt as Pharaohs from 323 BCE until 30 BCE with the death of Cleopatra.", Teddy explained.
"So they weren't Egyptians ?", Max asked.
"No... they were all Greeks, and in most cases didn't speak the Ancient Egyptian language, and were unable to read Egyptian hieroglyphics", Teddy added.
"Weird...", Ethan commented, as they looked at the reliefs of the Pharaohs - who looked Egyptian, but were really Greek.
"So now for the crocodiles...", Teddy said, trying to make things a little less academic.
"Real, live crocodiles were kept in the Sobek temple.
Having been raised from newly hatched eggs - yes, crocodiles come from eggs, just like many other reptiles, dinosaurs and their close relatives, the birds - the crocodiles here at the Kom Ombo Temple were apparently 'tame'.
Not only were they 'tame', but they also wore gold and enamelled jewellery, and were fed daily by the priests.", Teddy explained
Nile Crocodile - Egypt The Nile crocodile is a large crocodilian native to freshwater habitats in Africa, where it is present in 26 countries. Nile crocodiles are a normally a very aggressive species of crocodile, and they are capable of taking almost any animal, including humans, within their range. Like other crocodiles, Nile crocodiles have an extremely powerful bite that is unique among all animals, and sharp, conical teeth that sink into flesh, allowing for a grip that is almost impossible to loosen. They can apply high levels of force for extended periods of time, a great advantage for holding down large prey underwater to drown. Large males can reach a length of 18 or 19 feet, and have a maximum lifespan of 70 to 100 years.
 |
| Unwrapped Crocodile Mummies - Kom Ombo - Egypt |
"Thanks a lot, guys !", Teddy grumbled, as he was deposited on one of the glass display cases, as the 'boys' all rushed off to get a look at the desiccated remains of the once mummified 'crocs'.
 |
| Crocodile Mummies - Kom Ombo - Upper Egypt |
But Teddy didn't really mind, as they had all listened carefully to what he had to say previously, and had at least seemed interested.
Now Jim thought it might be nice to have a midday meal in Kom Ombo, and he asked Ismail to make some inquiries.
It turned out, however, that Kom Ombo was such a small town that there was only a rather 'run-down' cafeteria just outside the Temple precincts, so Jim decided that once everyone had seen enough of dead crocodiles they should return to the 'Hadeel' for lunch.
 |
| 'Hadeel' Moored at Kom Ombo - Upper Egypt |
During their absence the Hadeel had undergone a thorough 'wash and brush-up', (which reminded Ethan that Teddy was also due for a thorough brush), and the crew were expectantly awaiting for the return of their guests.
On boarding the 'Hadeel', Ethan, Teddy and Jim went down to their cabin.
Ethan, with Teddy, went into the cabin first, and almost immediately Jim heard a loud squeak from Teddy.
"What's the problem, Ethan ?", Jim called out.
"It's Teddy... he's found two 'kittys' on the bed..", Ethan replied, sounding rather startled.
"Oh... well at least they're not 'crocs'...", Jim said.
"No... but I think they're ours.", Ethan added.
"What...? ... You mean Bastet and Sekhmet ?", Jim said.
"....'think so...they're both black, anyway... but I don't speak 'Cat', so I can't ask them.", Ethan replied.
"Well Teddy can speak 'Cat', so get him to ask them who they are...", Jim said.
"They says they're our cats... Bastet and Sekhmet, and they were lonely with just Faunus, so they wanted to come and see us... so Faunus brought them.", Ethan explained.
"And where's Faunus ?", Jim asked.
"Right behind you...", Faunus, who was standing behind Jim in the corridor, replied.
"So what did the captain and crew say when you suddenly turned up with two cats ?", Jim asked, really puzzled.
"Nothing...", Faunus replied, innocently.
"As far as they're concerned we've been here since the dahabiya left Luxor...", Faunus explained.
"Ah... so you've been playing your 'mind-games' with our poor crew...", Ethan said knowingly.
"Well... just helping them to understand...", Faunus replied.
"Now I don't think you came here just because the cats wanted to see us... so what's the real reason ?", Jim asked.
"Well Teddy can speak 'Cat', so get him to ask them who they are...", Jim said.
"They says they're our cats... Bastet and Sekhmet, and they were lonely with just Faunus, so they wanted to come and see us... so Faunus brought them.", Ethan explained.
"And where's Faunus ?", Jim asked.
"Right behind you...", Faunus, who was standing behind Jim in the corridor, replied.
"So what did the captain and crew say when you suddenly turned up with two cats ?", Jim asked, really puzzled.
"Nothing...", Faunus replied, innocently.
"As far as they're concerned we've been here since the dahabiya left Luxor...", Faunus explained.
"Ah... so you've been playing your 'mind-games' with our poor crew...", Ethan said knowingly.
"Well... just helping them to understand...", Faunus replied.
"Now I don't think you came here just because the cats wanted to see us... so what's the real reason ?", Jim asked.
Ethan looked puzzled - but said nothing.
"Anyway... it's past lunch-time, so let's go up and have some lunch with the others... Jim suggested.
"Teddy decided to stay with the cats, and both Bastet and Sekhmet cuddled up beside Teddy, as they had done previously at the 'Winter Palace' - presumably they liked Teddy's fur.
Teddy, who had previously had a busy morning, then took the opportunity to 'switch off' for a while, (wisely leaving his 'movement sensors' on, however - just in case the cats decided to go off and do some exploring)..
"Salaam Sayyid Ali !", Hossam, the captain, said in greeting...
('salaam' means 'greetings'... and 'sayyid' is an exaggeratedly formal version of 'Mr.')
So it seemed that Faunus was quite right when he had suggested that the crew imagined that he had been on the dahabiya since Luxor.
"And did you enjoy your trip to the temple ?", Hossam asked.
"I didn't go... as I had some business to attend to, but I have seen it before...", Faunus (Ali) replied.
"Well of course... as you are a professional guide...", Hossam said... and Ethan couldn't help smirking.
"Well I thought it was very interesting...", Ethan said, smiling broadly.
"Yes... and I really liked the dead crocodiles...", Zac added.
"That's good...", Hossam replied, puzzled.
Captain Hossam was always nervous of Zac...
He was different to the other members of the group... slightly older, and more serious - more like 'Mr. Jim' - and he always appeared to be carrying a gun.
 |
| The Gardens of the Old Cataract Hotel - Aswan - Upper Egypt |
"Well, I soon discovered that they were not planted on us, and are not 'aliens' in disguise - so it's quite safe to bring them with us.
And also... there are some beautiful gardens at the 'Cataract Hotel' in Aswan where they can play, and as we will be staying there for maybe a week, it would be good for them - after all, they are still kittens.
"I see.... and what does Teddy think about all this ?", Ethan asked.
"He likes the company...", Faunus said
"So ... you will be coming with us to Aswan, then ?...", Jim asked.
"Of course... and I want to see Edfu and the Temple of Isis." Faunus replied.
"But regardless... what have you all been thinking about your trip so far ?", Faunus asked.
"Well I think it's very interesting, but then we have Teddy and Ismail to tell us all about things, but for most tourists, without a proper guide, I think it would get boring pretty quickly...", Max said.
"True...", Glen agreed.
At that point Ethan's cell-phone sounded - and that was the moment when Faunus intended to have a serious discussion with the boys, but was diverted by Teddy and the cats.
"Oh... Teddy must have woken up...", Ethan said.
"..'seems the cats have wandered off....
- Ethan - 'Hi Teddy ! How's it going, my fluffy friend ?'
- Teddy - 'Maybe a problem !'
- Ethan - 'Like what ?'
- Teddy - 'Kitties 'gone AWOL !'
- Ethan - 'What - both of them ?'
- Teddy - 'Yep !'
- Ethan - 'Stay there - 'Phone you back soon...'
- Teddy - 'OK...'
I think the door was left open..", Ethan said to Jim.
"Well....it's nothing to worry about....
They're both here...", Jim said.
 |
| Bastet and Sekhmet on the Sun-deck |
"Do they always talk like that on the 'phone ?", Max asked Faunus... meaning Teddy and Ethan.
"I should think so.
It's a problem with Teddy's programming...
He can't hold a normal conversation on a 'phone - and I need to fix it sometime...", Faunus said.
"Well I think the cats would enjoy a plate of Nile Perch...", Ismail suggested.
"Why... is that tasty ?", Ethan asked.
"Here, in Upper Egypt, people think it a great delicacy...", Ismail explained.
After watching the two cats obviously enjoying their fish, Faunus returned to the original conversation.
"So what about here at Kom Ombo... what did you think of the crocodiles ?", Faunus asked.
"Well... the museum was interesting - but there was not much left of the temple..." Zac said.
"And it was very similar with Esna... not much left of the temple.", Glen added.
"Yes... but you have to remember how old these temples are...", Jim said.
 |
| 'Old Cataract Hotel' - Logo - Aswan - Upper Egypt |
"Well.... it was built in 1899 for European travellers.
Its guests have included Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, Winston Churchill, Howard Carter - the guy who discovered Tutankhamen's tomb, Agatha Christie - best selling novelist, and many other famous people.", Faunus said.
"So it sounds a bit like the Old Winter Palace in Luxor...", 'Sigi' suggested.
Faunus nodded.
"So, if Faunus says that it's good, and says the kitties will like it, then I think I will .... so have we booked in for next week ?", Ethan asked Jim.
"Yes, Ethan ... no need to worry.", Jim replied, as Bastet jumped up onto his lap.
"Now we're nicely moored, and it's a fine afternoon, so why don't you, Max - and Ismail, go for a nice relaxing soak in the sun-deck Jacuzzi ?", Faunus suggested - in a way that couldn't be refused.
 |
| Max in the Jacuzzi on the Hadeel |
"Do what ?", Faunus replied, pretending not to understand.
"Just make people do things... and sometimes forget things...", Glen said.
"Oh, it's just a little 'mind trick'...", Faunus answered - really explaining nothing.
Glen shook his head, pausing for a moment.
"And something else interests me .... like how did you get to meet and know Jim, and the others ?", Glen then asked, thinking that Faunus was in a relaxed and an amenable mood.
 |
| Glaux the Owl |
"Well ... 'give it a shot' ....", Glen replied.
"Actually, it was all to do with Glaux ... our owl.
But if you really want to know the story, then let Josh tell you ... as it was all because of him.", Faunus said.
Now Faunus was not being exactly truthful, but Josh did play a large part in the connection between Jim, and the others, and Faunus - so Josh told the tale.
at this point in our story, however, we don't really want to break the narrative, so if you want to learn about what actually happened at the 'Villa Pastoralis' in Tibur, in Italy a long time before, then follow the link....
'How Josh met Faunus'And Josh told the story.......
"So ...do you believe it, Glen ?", Faunus asked.
"Well ...knowing what I already know ...I suppose I must...", Glen replied.
"And I think that's enough of that..", Faunus said.
"OK...but before you do that....should I go and get Teddy ?", Ethan asked.
"Yes... good idea..", Faunus asked.
So Ethan picked up both the cats, returned to their cabin, and came back with Teddy.
"Sorry about the cats...but I didn't notice the door was slightly ajar..", Teddy said on his arrival.
Jim ignored Ethan's remark, and turned his attention to Faunus.
"Right ...so what's on your mind, Faunus ...?", Jim asked.
Well, more to the point is what's on everyone else's mind ...", Faunus cryptically replied.
"About what ?". Zac asked.
"The places that you've all been visiting - the temples...", Faunus replied.
"Yes ...well, very interesting ... especially with all the information that Teddy's been giving us...", Teddy said, thinking that Faunus might be a little annoyed - although he was not sure why Faunus might be annoyed.
"And all Teddy's 'visual-aids'.", Zac added - perhaps not entirely seriously.
"And all the information from Ismail about the Egyptian 'gods'...", Josh added.
Josh mentioned the 'gods' because he has a suspicion that was what Faunus was really wanting to talk about -
Josh always had a good insight into Faunus thinking, as the story of their first meeting might indicate.
"And didn't you find all these Ptolemaic temples on the banks of the Nile in Upper Egypt a little strange ?", Faunus asked very pointedly.
"Not really, Faunus ... but I think we don't really understand what you are getting at..", Jim said.
"Perhaps not ...", Faunus said reflectively.
"What I'm really trying to do is to get you to look at all of this with fresh eyes.
You see, people in this time and place think of all these ruined Egyptian temples as simply quaint - maybe interesting - 'tourist attractions'.
They do not see them for what they really are.", Faunus continued.
And what are they .. really ?", 'Sigi' bravely asked.
"OK ... well let's do this bit by bit.
Now you have seen how very poor the majority of people are - here in Egypt.
Forty percent of the population subsists on less than $2 a day, and most of the people living by the Nile are 'subsistence farmers'.", Faunus explained.
The 'boys' looked surprised.
"Yep .... Faunus is correct - at least according to my data-base...", Teddy confirmed.
Faunus continued.....
 |
| Nile Flood - West Bank - Thebes - Egypt |
Then the situation was very similar, only the majority of the people had considerably less in material terms, and were very reliant on the Nile flooding, and bringing fertile soil to their fields.
If there was a 'low Nile', large numbers of people would starve - although the temples usually kept some grain stocks to distribute to the poor in emergencies - but rarely enough..."
Faunus paused for a moment to let everyone take in what he had so far said.
"But consider - these Ptolemaic temples on the banks of the Nile in Upper Egypt were simply the rebuilding of temples.
The inscriptions - the 'Building Texts' - at Edfu, that you will see tomorrow, make it clear that Edfu temple - which is a very special case - or rather the 'original' Edfu temple - was a 'model' for all of the other temples - and the original Edfu temple was the first to be built .... and how many times that 'original' temple was rebuilt is not recorded.
And the first temple and Edfu was not strictly the 'original' temple.
The 'Temple of Edfu' in its present form was erected over a two hundred-year period between 237 BC and 57 BC, but incorporates parts of much earlier structures dating back to the Pyramid Age.
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| Edfu Building Texts - Temple of Horus - Upper Egypt |
In reality, however, the 'Building Texts' describe certain seemingly mythological events, including the laying of the foundations, and the building and the 'bringing to life' of the historical temple of Edfu in a distant 'mythical' age.
Significantly, the 'historical' temple is described as the work of the 'neteru' (the 'gods') themselves.
This indicates a belief in a historical temple that was a direct continuation, projection, and reflection of a temple that came into existence at the very beginning of the world - a temple apparently that existed even beyond this 'world', and the very first physical temple at Edfu was simply a 'copy' of the 'real' temple."
Ethan looked very thoughtful...
"Yes ...I can remember Novius telling us something like that before we came to Egypt ....but now it's beginning to make more sense to me."
 |
| Plato |
"Good, Jim ....you see the 'Boss' didn't waste his money on all that education.", Faunus said...with a smile.
"Now... if we think back to how poor the people in Egypt have always been - and go back to ancient times, when the people lived in mud-brick hovels, and even the mightiest Pharaohs lived in palaces built of mud brick and not stone - we should wonder at these temples built of sandstone and granite." Faunus continued.
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| Valley Temple - Giza - Cairo - Egypt |
"Yes ...or hadn't you noticed that we have not visited any stone ruins of royal palaces ?",
"Well ... it never occurred to me...", Glen said, shaking his head in disbelief....
"Now in this time and place humans say that the 'ancient gods' never existed - be they the 'gods' of Egypt, Greece, Rome or the Maya or Inca - or whoever.
The questions remains, however, why did these peoples build such huge, improbable building, from the hardest, weightiest stone for 'gods' that humans of this time and place say were just imaginary - or delusions ... and where did such delusions come from ?
And one would think that such poor people would be far too busy just tending their crops and their animals - rather than hauling huge pieces of stone around, and raising them up, and carving statues and inscriptions for apparently imaginary beings.
In reality .... none of it makes any sense.....", and Faunus paused.
"So you ask a lot of questions, Faunus...but are you going to give us any answers ?", Zac said.
"Answers .... maybe .... but what I truly want you to understand is the absolute reality of the entities that gave rise to the temples, the art, and many of the beliefs of the ancient Egyptians.
You may be rich young tourists, lazily cruising the Nile river in luxury.... but you are here for a purpose....",Faunus explained.
"Which is ?", 'Sigi' pointedly asked.
"And I hope myself, and the 'kitties', are not included as 'rich young tourists'...", Teddy interjected - seemingly to lighten the mood.
"The purpose, Ethan, is to come to a greater understanding of how possibly 'alien' entities have influenced the history, and the life of this 'world'....", Faunus concluded, deftly ignoring Teddy's comment.
"But what has that got to do with us ?", Josh asked....
"Well I don't want anything to do with those 'pesky aliens'....!
I just want to enjoy my cruise, and learn more about these ancient Egyptian guys from our good friend Teddy. ", Ethan interjected.
"And Ismail...", Teddy added.
"Yes ... that's all to the good, Ethan.....
but if we don't understand what these 'pesky aliens', as you call them, want with you and Jim and the others ... then you'll never be rid of them.", Faunus explained.
"Now you're worrying me Faunus...", Zac said.
 |
| Edfu Temple - David Roberts - edited - Vittorio Carvelli |
"Well, one thing that I do know is that the ancient 'neteru' - the Egyptian 'gods' as they are often called, are closely connected with this 'alien' business.
But I think I hear Max and Ismail coming down from the upper deck.... so perhaps we should leave this conversation until after dinner.
But remember, tomorrow's visit to Edfu will be important...", Faunus said darkly.
It should be remembered here that Max and Ismail were not 'privy' to all the events relating to the previous contacts with the 'aliens', and were also not fully aware of the mysterious 'history' of the 'boys', and so Faunus was not keen on talking about discussing certain subjects in front of them - and hence his 'suggestion' that the pair of them should spend the afternoon on the sundeck.
Hapi was the god of the annual flooding of the Nile in ancient Egyptian religion. The flood deposited rich silt (fertile soil) on the river's banks, allowing the Egyptians to grow crops. Hapi was greatly celebrated among the Egyptians. Some of the titles of Hapi were 'Lord of the Fish and Birds of the Marshes' and 'Lord of the River Bringing Vegetation'. Hapi is typically depicted as male, wearing a brief loincloth and ceremonial false beard. He also was usually given blue skin, representing water. Often he is represented as a pair of deities, representing the Nile of 'Upper Egypt' and 'Lower Egypt'. One of the oldest references to Hapi is in the 'Pyramid Texts' of Unas ,in which Hapi is linked to the 'Nome (province) of Kenset' - which includes the 'First Cataract' (Aswan)t and the islands of Elephantine, Sahel, Philae - and to the 'neter' 'Upuaut' - the 'opener of the ways'.
 |
| Hapi - God of the Nile |
 |
| Nile Crocodile |
Now normally, at that time of night, it would be quite dark by the Nile, as there were very few street lights
But on this night there was a strange kind of 'twilight', so that they could easily and safely pick their way along the river bank.
 |
| Teddy and the Rattlesnake |
Regardless, Teddy was still very nervous about the possibility of crocodiles and other such nasty predators, as he still had not entirely got over his encounter with a rattle snake on the Devils Tower in Wyoming.
As usual, however, Teddy decided to be a 'brave bear', and put all such troubling thoughts out of his mind, and concentrate on what he was expecting Faunus to say during their walk.
"You know, Faunus, there are parts of this country that are very beautiful....", Ethan said.
"True...and this evening reminds me of the time when I met with you, Faunus, at the Villa Athena in Greece, after arriving in Athens.....
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| Nile River Bank at Sunset - Upper Egypt |
I didn't truly understand what you were saying then, but I'm beginning to understand it better now....", Josh said.
"Good !", Faunus said.
Really, of course, Faunus had other matters that he wanted to talk about.
"So...what's on your mind, Faunus ?", Ethan asked, as he twiddled Teddy's ears so that the little bear could be more relaxed, (Teddy was still worried about snakes and crocodiles, despite doing his best to be 'brave'.)
 |
| Column from the Mortuary Temple of Unas |
"Yes....and I have a question about that....", Glen interjected.
"I can understand - a bit - this business about repeatedly rebuilding temples, but why are they all in the south of Egypt. and not also in the north ?", Glen perceptively asked.
"Good question...", Faunus replied.
"The reason is all to do with later historical events.....
There were many temples and monuments in the North of Egypt - you've seen some of them - at Saqqara and Giza.
 |
| Causeway of Pharaoh Unas - Saquara |
It was the Arabs and the Turks who were mainly responsible for destroying most of the monuments dating from Pharonic time.
Also, the Coptic chrsitans took over, and seriously damaged many temples after the christianized Roman Empire banned the worship of the ancient 'gods'.
Significantly, it was only in the extreme South of Egypt - where we are now - near Aswan, that the ancient religion lingered until the first 'so-called' christian century.
Always, the south of Egypt, being so far from the Mediterranean, has been a 'backwater', and this applies even today.", Faunus explained.
"Well...that explains a lot !", Ethan said.
 |
| Edfu Temple - Upper Egypt |
 |
| Edfu Building Texts - Temple of Horus - Upper Egypt |
"That's quite right, Ethan...", Faunus said, sounding pleased and surprised.
"Yes...but the problem is that we can't read Egyptian hieroglyphics.", 'Sigi' said.
"Ah....but Teddy can..", Ethan said.
"So, Teddy....tell us all about it...", Glen asked.
"Well, not just now, perhaps...." Faunus suggested.
"I think we should make our way back to the 'Hadeel'.
It's getting quite dark now, and we don't want to accidentally fall into the Nile...." Faunus continued.
"Yes...and get eaten by a crocodile !", Teddy added.
"Teddy...please understand.. there are very few crocodiles in this part of the Nile, although there may be some further South - so stop worrying.
"Yes...and I bet they said that to the 'Boss' about jaguars....and look what happened to him !", Teddy retorted.
"Well anyway tomorrow I think it will be a long day at the Temple, so I it's best that we all get a good night's sleep.", Faunus said, ignoring Teddy's comments.
And so they returned to the 'Hadeel' and had the early night that Faunas had suggested
The morning opened with some light, hazy cloud - which was a good thing, as it meant that the build-up of heat, first thing, would be slightly moderated.
Breakfast was served on the sun-deck, but everyone was wary of discussing what might happen later when they reached the temple.
Once breakfast was over, the 'gang' all went up onto the observation deck to view the scene as the 'Hadeel' gently made her way to the town of Edfu.
Once breakfast was over, and everyone was suitably dressed and equipped with cameras, binoculars, plenty of bottled water, and a packed lunch provided by the galley of the 'Hadeel', the 'gang' all took to the limos parked by the river bank, and made the drive to the temple.إدفو - Edfu - known in antiquity as 'Behdet', is an Egyptian town, located on the West Bank of the Nile River between, close to Aswan, with a population of approximately sixty thousand people. Edfu is famous as the site of the Ptolemaic 'Temple of Horus', and also an ancient settlement, 'Tell Edfu' which is about 3 miles south of modern Edfu, and contains the remains of ancient pyramids.The of the 'ancient settlement of Edfu' are situated to the west of the Ptolemaic 'Temple of Horus' - to the left of the temple pylon. This settlement is known as 'Wetjeset-hor'. The Greek name was Απολλινόπολις - and the town was known to the ancient Romans as 'Apollinopolis Magna' ('Apollo Superior'). Although unassuming and apparently uninteresting to the visiting tourists, 'Tell Edfu' is a monument that contains evidence of much Egyptian history. Thee is also a smaller temple at Edfu, sometimes, but improperly, called a 'Typhonium', which is apparently an appendage of the main Temple, and its sculptures represent the birth and education of the youthful deity, Horus. Its sculptures represent the progress of the Sun, Phre-Hor-Hat, Lord of Heaven, moving in his bark (sacred boat) through the 'Circle of the Hours'.
Edfu Street Scene - Upper Egypt
As it was early there were very few tourists in evidence, and leaving the limos, they made their way up the steep flight of steps to the original monumental entrance to the temple.
"Well, this is more like it !", Max said, as they strode up to the huge entrance pylons.
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| Horus as a Crowned Falcon - Edfu Temple |
"Those 'grumpy looking looking birdy thingys', as you so succinctly put it, Ethan, are in fact statues of the 'neter' Horus.", Teddy explained.
"So if he's this great, powerful 'god-thingy', then why do they show him as a 'grumpy birdy' with skinny legs ?", Ethan asked.
Now there, of course, is a very good, and a very pertinent question......
"Well that, Ethan, Faunus may want to discuss with you later...", Teddy replied.
"Okey dokey... and by the way, where is Faunus ?", Ethan asked.
"Back there...by the entrance...", Josh said.,
"Looks like he's getting the tourist police to turn away those tourists who are getting out of that coach."
Zac looked back.....
"Well I would say that Faunus has probably used his weird powers of suggestion to have this place closed for a while.", Zac said.
"OK !", Ethan said, triumphantly.
"So first we have our very own 'pirate ship', and now we have our own Egyptian temple.....sounds good.", Ethan added.
"And what about those poor tourists, who have probably travelled a long way, and spent a lot of money to come here....and now they can't see the temple..?", Josh asked.
"Don't worry Josh, I'm sure that Faunus will make arrangements for the tourists to view the temple as soon as we go...", Jim said.
"Okey dokey....well let's get on with it...", Ethan said.
 |
| Plan - Temple of Horus |
"Yes please, if you don't mind...", Teddy said, as he prepared himself to give his 'mini-lecture' on the 'Temple of Horus'.
"Well, it's nice and clear cut and simple....", Jim said, trying to look as impressed as possible, as he scrutinised the the beautifully printed and laminated copy of a plan of the temple.
"Yes, but there's some other bits I'll get Ethan to hand out later...", Teddy said ominously.
"Oh...", Jim said, hoping that this visit wasn't going to get over complicated.
So Ethan finished handing out the 'visual aids', and Teddy put on his King Farouk style sunglasses, and prepared to start.
"The Temple of Edfu is an Egyptian temple located on the West bank of the Nile in Edfu - as you can obviously see.
The city was known in the Hellenistic period as Ἀπόλλωνος πόλις - Koine Greek, and in Latin as 'Apollonopolis Magna', after the god to whom the temple was dedicated - Horus, who was identified as the Greek Apollo during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods.
It is, as you can doubtless see, one of the best preserved temples in Egypt.
 |
| Ptolemaic Eagle |
The inscriptions on the walls of the temple provide important information about the language, myths and religion during the Ptolemaic - and earlier periods in Egypt - as Novius has already told some of you....
In particular, the Temple's inscribed building texts give details of its construction, and also preserve information about the mythical interpretation of this, and all other temples in Egypt.
There are also important scenes and inscriptions relating to the 'Sacred Drama' describing the age-old conflict between Horus and Seth.
Edfu was one of several temples built during the Ptolemaic Kingdom, including the 'Temple of Hathor' at Dendera, - which we shall visit on our return journey - the temple at Esna, and the temple at Kom Ombo, which we have already seen, and finally the temple at Philae - which we shall see when we reach Aswan.
The size of this temple, here at Edfu, reflects the relative prosperity of the time.
The present temple, which was begun on 23 August 237 BC, initially consisted of a pillared hall, two transverse halls, and a 'barque sanctuary' surrounded by chapels.....
 |
| Ptolemy III 'Euergetes' |
And so they all trooped into the temple, following Ethan and Teddy.
"The building was started during the reign of Ptolemy III 'Euergetes'
"Who ?..", Ethan asked, obviously forgetting his Greek from long before.....
"Euergetes.... Εὐεργέτης... it means 'the Benefactor'....from ευ-, 'good', and 'εργετης', 'doer or worker' - and was a title, given to various benefactors.", Teddy explained.
 |
| Ptolemy XII 'Auletes' |
The temple here was built on the site of an earlier, smaller temple, also dedicated to Horus, although the previous structure was oriented east-west rather than north-south as in the present site.
A ruined pylon lies just to the east of the current temple.
The implications from the building texts, however, suggests that there had always been a temple on this site...."
By then they had passed through the huge entrance pylons, and were standing in the large columned courtyard - where Teddy gave them some information about the temple's later history.
Teddy continued....."The temple of Edfu fell into disuse as a religious monument following the christian Roman Emperor, Theodosius I's, persecution of non-christians, and edict banning non-christian worship within the Roman Empire in 391.
 |
| Evidence of Arson |
The blackened ceiling of the Hypostyle Hall, still visible today, is almost certain to be the result of arson intended to destroy religious imagery that was then considered 'evil'.
Over the centuries, the temple became buried to a depth of 40 ft beneath drifting desert sand and layers of river silt deposited by the Nile.
Local inhabitants built homes directly over the former temple grounds.
 |
| Auguste Mariette - Archaeologist |
In 1860 Auguste Mariette, a French Egyptologist, began the work of freeing Edfu temple from the sands.
The temple of Edfu is the largest temple dedicated to Horus.
It was the centre of several festivals sacred to Horus. Each year, Hathor travelled south from her temple at Denderah in the North, to visit Horus at Edfu, and this event marking their sacred marriage was the occasion of a great festival and pilgrimage.
Anyway...back to where we are standing....this is the main 'Courtyard', which is surrounded on three sides by 32 large columns.
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| Edfu Temple Courtyard - Upper Egypt |
The columns are richly decorated with floral and palm capitals, and the walls are covered in reliefs of the gods Horus and Hathor.
The rear walls of the colonnade are covered with three rows of large reliefs depicting the Pharaoh Ptolemy IX with the gods and with the victorious god Horus.
Similar representations are repeated all over the temple.
 |
| Thoth - Edfu Temple |
Having passed through the 'Courtyard', we come to the 'Vestibule', decorated with 12 columns, topped with elaborate floral capitals.
Entering the vestibule, there are two small rooms.
The western room is the 'Hall of Consecration'.
The eastern room was the temple's Library, with a list of books that it once contained still inscribed on the wall, along with a depiction of Seshat, the 'goddess' of writing.
Now, back here in the Vestibule, on the walls you can see four rows of incised reliefs showing Pharaoh 'Euergetes' making offerings to the gods and performing ritual acts, one of which is laying the foundation stone of the temple.
Above are a band of astronomical representations, and an ornamental frieze consisting of the name of the Pharaoh guarded by two falcons.
Below, just above the floor, are Euergetes, his wife Cleopatra - not the famous Cleopatra - and a long line of lesser 'gods' bringing offerings to the three main divinities of Edfu.
On the architrave of the door leading into the Hypostyle Hall, notice the relief of the solar barque, guided by two falcon-headed Horus figures, with the sun being worshipped by Thoth and Neith."
"Well Ethan hasn't said anything - so I will....'what's an architrave ?'...", 'Sigi' asked.
"An architrave - or 'moulding' - is used around the edges of structures, such as doors and windows...", Teddy replied.
"OK...Thanks...", 'Sigi replied...and Teddy carried on with his guided tour.
"At the sides are Ptolemy IV Philopator, and the 'Four Senses' - to the right, sight and hearing, to the left, taste - depicted by the tongue - and also reason.
Next we come to the 'Hypostyle Hall', which has a roof supported by 12 columns.
Beyond the 'Hypostyle Hall' are two 'Antechambers', where there were altars where offerings were left for the 'gods' by the temple priests.
A staircase here leads to the roof, but it's unsafe, so it's best if we don't go up.
Now we come to the sanctuary, lit three small square apertures in the roof.
The sanctuary was where the golden statue of Horus once stood upon a granite shrine - which is still here, and which is a relic of the pre-Ptolemaic temple.
A corridor runs around the sanctuary leading off into several dark chambers, which are decorated with well-preserved and colourful reliefs.
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| The Sanctuary - Edfu Temple - Upper Egypt |
The 'Inner Passageway' runs around the back half of the temple, and is entered from the Hypostyle Hall, and is decorated with reliefs and inscriptions."
"And what about these 'Building Texts', Teddy ?", Jim asked.
"They are situated in many of the passageways and corridors...", Teddy replied.
"And are you going to show, and read them to us ?", Ethan asked.
"Well we can see some, but really they are not very interesting as they are just hieroglyphics - not reliefs or images.
I could read them, but they are very repetitious, and just go on and on - so I think the best thing is to wait until we are back on the boat, and there I have a summary that I can read you, and then we could have a discussion."
Jim didn't want the 'push' Teddy, and as it was a bit claustrophobic in the sanctuary, he thought it might be best if they left the temple.
"OK...so is there anything else to see ?", Jim asked.
"Yes...there's also a 'Mammisi', like at Kom Ombo, so we could go and see it now - have our sandwiches, and then go back to the Hadeel..", Teddy suggested.
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| Reconstruction of the Temple of Horus - Edfu - Upper Egypt |
And so they all sat on various stone blocks scattered around near the great entrance pylons, thinking back to what the temple might have looked like all those years ago...
Mammisi.
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| Plan of the 'Mammisi' at Edfu - Upper Egypt |
"The 'Mammisi' at Edfu was built during the Ptolemaic Period (332–30 BCE).
Two kings are mentioned in the temple's inscriptions: Ptolemy VIII-'Euergete' II, who ruled from 170 until 116 BCE, and his son Ptolemy IX 'Soter', who ruled from 116 until 107 BCE.
The 'Mammisi' was the destination of an annual procession leaving from the main temple to celebrate the festival of the divine birth of 'Harsomtus' - also known as 'Hor-sema-tawy' - the son of the divine couple 'Horus of Edfu' and 'Hathor of Dendera'.
Performances of singing and dancing took place in the courtyard area, which was, unlike most of the temple, open to the public.
Inscriptions on the walls of the 'Mammisi' suggest that the festival also included a dramatic recreation of the divine birth scene. Approximately 200 ritual scenes are depicted throughout this temple, and the most important are concerned with the birth, nutrition, and coronation of the divine child.
Additionally, the walls were covered with various protective gods and spells to safeguard the mother and child during childbirth.
Because the divine child was associated with the rising sun, the 'Mammisi' at Edfu is oriented facing east.
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| The 'Mammisi' at Edfu - Upper Egypt |
At Edfu, there are few traces of a former panelling of the western inner wall of the sanctuary with gold sheets.
The core of the building was composed of a sanctuary (a) for the temple’s main statue, which was fronted by an offering room with two side chapels (b).
The northern chapel gave access to the roof via a staircase.
A corridor around the structure, called an "ambulatory" (c), was marked by tall columns linked by screen walls.
These columns represent bundles of papyrus, marsh plants, and flowers, and refer to an important myth in ancient Egypt: the myth of Isis giving birth to and hiding her son Horus in the Delta marshes.
Inscriptions and scenes depicted on the external walls of the sanctuary and the ambulatory refer to this myth.
At the top of each column, there is a carved image of the god Bes, protector of mothers and children during childbirth.
Access to the columned ambulatory and core of the temple was controlled by wooden doors.
The temple was fronted by a vestibule (d) and two courtyards (e-f), opened to the public during festivals.
Horus or 'Hor' in Ancient Egyptian, is one of the most important Egyptian 'gods' who was the 'god' of the pharaohs and the sky.
He was worshipped from prehistoric times in Egypt until the Ptolemaic Kingdom and Roman period.
Different forms of Horus are recorded in history, and these are usually treated as separate gods by Egyptologists.
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| Horus as a Falcon |
Horus was most often shown as a falcon, or as a man with a falcon head.
The earliest recorded form of Horus is as the local 'god' of Nekhen in Upper Egypt.
Horus was the first known national 'god', connected to the ruling pharaoh - and the pharaohs were later thought of as a manifestation of Horus in life, and Osiris in death.
The most common family relationships describe Horus as the son of Isis and Osiris, and he plays an important part in the 'Osiris Myth' as Osiris's heir and the enemy of Set, the murderer and brother of Osiris.
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| The Eye of Horus |
The 'Eye of Horus' is an ancient Egyptian symbol of protection and royal power.
The symbol is seen on images of Horus' mother, Isis, and on other deities associated with her.
In the Egyptian language, the word for this symbol was 'wedjat'.
'Horus the Younger' - 'Harpocrates' to the Ptolemaic Greeks, is shown in the form of a youth wearing a lock of hair - which was an Egyptian sign of youth - on the right of his head, while sucking his finger.
In addition, he usually wears the united crowns of Egypt, the crown of Upper Egypt and the crown of Lower Egypt.
He is a form of the rising sun, representing its earliest light.
Horus also was seen as the son of Osiris, and Osiris himself.
He was then called 'Golden Horus Osiris'.
In the temple at Denderah he is given the full royal titles of both Horus and Osiris, and he was sometimes believed to be both the father of himself as well as his own son, and in some accounts to have been 'Horus Osiris' being brought back to life by Isis.", Ismail concluded.
"Yes...and Ismail - while you're talking about 'gods'...whose this 'Thoth' that Teddy mentioned earlier on, when we were in the temple ?", Josh asked.
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| Thoth |
He was the god of wisdom, writing, hieroglyphs, science, magic, and art.
Thoth's chief temple was in the city of 'Hermopolis'.
The ancient Egyptian name for the town was 'Khmun' - 'City of the Eight', later known as el-Ashmunein in Egyptian Arabic, and it was partially destroyed in 1826.
In Hermopolis, Thoth led the 'Ogdoad', a group of eight important gods.
Near Thoth's temple there are also many underground galleries, constructed mainly between the Late Period and Roman times. Thousands of ibis mummies, the bird sacred to Thoth, have been found in them.
Thoth played many important parts in Egyptian mythology, such as maintaining the universe, and being one of the two 'gods' - the other being Ma'at - who stood on either side of Ra's boat of the sun.
In the later history of ancient Egypt, Thoth strongly connected with the arts of magic, the system of writing, the development of science, and the
judgement of the dead.", Ismail concluded.
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| Hathor |
She is usually shown as a woman with the head of a cow or ears of a cow.
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| Sistrum |
Her name means 'Domain of Horus' or 'Temple of Horus'.
The sistrum is her instrument which she used to send evil from the land and bring goodness.
She is the goddess of joy, celebration, and love, and was seen by the Greeks as Aphrodite by the Romans as Venus.
The priests who served Hathor could be men or women.
Hathor's main place of worship was at Dendera, but she was also worshipped throughout Egypt to the extent that she was also honoured as a goddess of the afterlife in 'The Field of Reeds' - the ancient Egyptian 'garden of paradise'.
The Milky Way as seen in the night sky also came to be associated with Hathor as it was considered a heavenly Nile River, the giver and sustained of all life.
As mistress of song and dance, of celebration and gratitude, bringer of life and comforter in death, Hathor embodied the heavenly Nile in all ways as she brought the best gifts of the gods to the people of earth."
"That's very good, Ismail.
Many thanks....", Jim said, obviously intrigued and moved by the young guide's description of the great 'goddess'.
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| Leaving the Temple of Horus - Edfu - Upper Egypt |
As they were listening to Ismail's explanations regarding some of the ancient Egyptian 'gods', Faunus suddenly appeared.
"Well guys, I think it's time to go.
The temple is now open to tourists again....so it might get a little crowded...", Faunus said with a grin.
Presumably Faunus had 'broken the spell' under which he had put the Tourist Police, and they were then happily admitting tourists to the site.
"So...we should head back to the 'Hadeel', and then later Faunus and Teddy can tell us about the Edfu Texts...", Jim suggested.
Presumably Faunus had 'broken the spell' under which he had put the Tourist Police, and they were then happily admitting tourists to the site.
"So...we should head back to the 'Hadeel', and then later Faunus and Teddy can tell us about the Edfu Texts...", Jim suggested.
The 'boys' returned to the 'Hadeel' for a relaxing afternoon, and after their evening meal, a chat about the Edfu Texts, and an 'early night'. The following morning the 'Hadeel' sets off for the short trip to Aswan, where they all disembark and settle in their new temporary 'home', the Old Cataract Hotel. prior the exploring Aswan....
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All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2021
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2021
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 202