Obelisks

Definition

Obelisks are tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monuments that are topped with a pyramidion. Often made from a single piece of stone, they were originally erected in pairs at the entrances of temples in ancient Egypt and served both a commemorative and religious purpose. These monumental structures symbolize the sun god Ra and were believed to connect the earth with the divine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Obelisks were typically made from hard stones like granite and could weigh several tons, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians.
2. Most obelisks were erected during the New Kingdom period (c. 1550–1070 BCE) and were associated with solar worship, reflecting the power and divine right of the pharaohs.
3. Many obelisks were originally located in Egypt but have since been transported to various cities around the world, such as Paris and New York City.
4. The surfaces of obelisks were often covered with hieroglyphic inscriptions that commemorated the pharaoh's achievements and expressed devotion to the gods.
5. Obelisks served not only as religious symbols but also as landmarks, marking significant locations and functioning as a means of asserting a ruler's authority over the land.

Review Questions

• How did obelisks reflect the religious beliefs and political power of ancient Egyptian society?
  • Obelisks reflected the religious beliefs of ancient Egyptians by symbolizing their connection to the sun god Ra, which was integral to their cosmology. They were often erected at temple entrances, emphasizing the divine authority of the pharaohs. The size and grandeur of these monuments showcased not only religious devotion but also served as statements of political power, demonstrating a ruler's ability to command resources and labor for monumental construction.
• Discuss the significance of hieroglyphic inscriptions found on obelisks and what they reveal about ancient Egyptian culture.
  • The hieroglyphic inscriptions on obelisks are significant as they provide insights into ancient Egyptian culture, including their values, beliefs, and historical events. These inscriptions often celebrated the achievements of pharaohs, detailed religious rituals, and invoked blessings from deities. By studying these texts, historians can better understand the political climate, religious practices, and social structure of ancient Egypt.
• Evaluate the impact of the relocation of Egyptian obelisks to modern cities on our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization.
  • The relocation of Egyptian obelisks to modern cities has had a profound impact on our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization by bringing attention to its monumental architecture and cultural significance outside its original context. These obelisks serve as tangible links to Egypt's rich history and highlight the influence of its culture on contemporary societies. However, such relocations also raise questions about cultural heritage, preservation practices, and the ethical implications of displaying artifacts removed from their historical settings.

Related terms

Pyramidion: The small, pyramidal top section of an obelisk, often inscribed with hieroglyphs that convey religious significance.

Hieroglyphs: The writing system used in ancient Egypt, consisting of symbols and pictures that represent sounds, objects, or ideas, often found inscribed on obelisks.

Temple: A sacred place in ancient Egypt where rituals and offerings were made to the gods, often adorned with obelisks at their entrances.