Ancient Egyptians had a strong understanding of astronomical phenomena, including the movements of the Sun, Moon, and planets. However, the role of the Milky Way in Egyptian religion and culture had remained unclear until a recent study by a University of Portsmouth astrophysicist shed new light on the connection between the Milky Way and the sky-goddess Nut. Nut, often depicted as a star-studded woman arching over her brother Geb, played a crucial role in Egyptian mythology as the protector of the earth from the encroaching waters of the void. She was also involved in the solar cycle, swallowing the Sun at dusk and giving birth to it at dawn.
The study proposed that the Milky Way may have highlighted Nut’s role as the sky goddess, with its position changing throughout the seasons to emphasize different aspects of her presence. For example, in winter, the Milky Way may have highlighted Nut’s outstretched arms, while in summer, it traced her backbone across the heavens. The research drew on ancient Egyptian texts and simulations to support this idea, offering new insights into the relationship between the Milky Way and Egyptian mythology.
Dr. Or Graur, an Associate Professor in Astrophysics, was inspired to study the connection between Nut and the Milky Way after a visit to a museum with his daughters. This dual analysis of Egyptian mythology and astronomical observations led to the discovery of compelling evidence that the Milky Way played a significant role in highlighting Nut’s divine presence in the ancient Egyptian sky. By comparing Egyptian beliefs with those of other cultures, Dr. Graur also found similarities in how different societies interpret the Milky Way, such as its role as a spirits’ road or a path for annual bird migrations in other parts of the world.
The research not only sheds light on the significance of the Milky Way in Egyptian mythology but also highlights how combining disciplines like astronomy and Egyptology can offer new insights into ancient beliefs. By studying the multicultural mythology of the Milky Way, researchers can gain a better understanding of how astronomical phenomena have connected humanity across cultures, geography, and time. Dr. Graur’s study is just the beginning of a larger project to catalog and study the diverse interpretations of the Milky Way in different cultures around the world.
Overall, the study reveals the deep connection between ancient Egyptian beliefs and astronomical observations, showing how the Milky Way played a central role in highlighting the presence of the sky-goddess Nut. By exploring these connections across different cultures, researchers can gain a richer understanding of how astronomical phenomena have influenced mythology and cultural beliefs throughout history. This research opens up new avenues for interdisciplinary study and offers exciting possibilities for further exploration of the complex relationships between astronomy and ancient cultures.
