sacred bird of egypt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

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Solutions for "sacred bird of egypt crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

IBIS: A wading bird highly revered in ancient Egypt, symbolizing the god Thoth, associated with wisdom and writing.

More About "sacred bird of egypt crossword clue"

The Ibis, specifically the African Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus), holds a profound place in the history and mythology of ancient Egypt. This distinctive wading bird, with its long, curved beak and graceful posture, was not merely an inhabitant of the Nile's banks; it was elevated to the status of a divine creature, closely intertwined with the pantheon of Egyptian gods.

Its sacredness stemmed primarily from its association with Thoth, the god of wisdom, knowledge, writing, magic, and the moon. Thoth was frequently depicted with the head of an Ibis, or sometimes a baboon, emphasizing the bird's symbolic connection to his divine attributes. The Ibis was seen as a manifestation of Thoth, embodying intelligence, balance, and the accurate recording of information.

Ancient Egyptians held the Ibis in such high regard that killing one, even by accident, was considered a capital crime. Vast numbers of mummified Ibises have been discovered in catacombs, especially at Tuna el-Gebel, serving as votive offerings to Thoth and highlighting the bird's critical role in religious practices and beliefs. This deep cultural and religious significance makes "IBIS" a very common and appropriate answer for this particular crossword clue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sacred bird of ancient Egypt?

The sacred bird most famously associated with ancient Egypt is the Ibis, particularly the African Sacred Ibis.

Why was the Ibis sacred in Egypt?

The Ibis was sacred because it was considered a manifestation of Thoth, the god of wisdom, writing, and magic. Its distinctive appearance and association with the life-giving Nile also contributed to its revered status.

Are there other sacred animals in ancient Egypt often seen in crosswords?

Yes, besides the Ibis, other frequently encountered sacred animals in Egyptian-themed crosswords include the CAT (associated with Bastet), SCARAB (symbol of creation and rebirth), FALCON (Horus), and CROCODILE (Sobek).