Atum

Atum

Depiction of Atum Atum is an important deity in ancient Egyptian mythology. He is often referred to as the creator god and is associated with the creation of the world and the sun. Atum is usually depicted as a man wearing a double crown or as a serpent. He is also sometimes shown as a lion or a ram.

Mythology

According to Egyptian mythology, Atum emerged from the primordial waters of chaos, known as Nun. He was the first god to exist and created himself by uttering his own name. Atum then created the air god Shu and the moisture goddess Tefnut through his own power of self-creation. Shu and Tefnut went on to give birth to the earth god Geb and the sky goddess Nut.

Atum is also associated with the sun. In the morning, he rises as the sun disk from the eastern horizon, and in the evening, he sets in the west. This daily cycle of sunrise and sunset represents the eternal cycle of creation and destruction.

Worship

Atum was widely worshipped throughout ancient Egypt, particularly in the city of Heliopolis. He was considered the supreme god and the creator of all other gods. Many temples were dedicated to Atum, and he was often depicted in religious rituals and ceremonies.

Legacy

Atum's influence extended beyond ancient Egypt. His worship spread to other regions, such as Nubia and the Levant. In later periods, Atum became associated with other deities, such as Ra, the sun god, and Amun, the king of the gods.

See also

• Ancient Egyptian mythology
• Egyptian gods and goddesses