G. A. Belova

Pis'mo otnositel'no chudes Memfisa (Pap. Sallier IV verso) [A letter concerning the wonders of Memphis (Pap. Sallier IV verso)]

The translation and interpretation of the text of a letter, concerning the wonders of Memphis, preserved on the verso of the Papyrus termed Sallier IV, was first made by R. Caminos. However, since the date of publication, further study of written documents and data obtained in the course of archaeological research has made it possible to reinterpret the main idea of the document. The letter is a unique written source describing the religious and mystical practice associated with Hathor on the part of their direct participant — an actress who played the role of goddess in the mysteries. The new interpretation of the text allows us to consider it as a source not only on the history of ancient Memphis, but also in the context of the spread of the cult of the goddess Hathor in Lower Egypt during the time of Ramesses II. The cult of this goddess was also worshipped in the Syro-Palestinian region, the establishment of control over which became the primary task of this king. The author also offers a new interpretation of the nature of the papyrus itself, considering it as a qualification work for compliance with a certain official position.

Keywords:
Memphis, White Walls, Hathor, Ramsses II, mysteries, ancient Egyptian feasts.

Original language — Russian.

DOI: 10.24412/2686-9276-2024-00014.

Referring: Belova G. А. A letter concerning the wonders of Memphis (Pap. Sallier IV verso) [in Russian] // Egypt and Neighbouring Countries 4 (2024): 3–31. DOI: 10.24412/2686-9276-2024-00014.

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