Rulers of Ancient Egypt Land of the Pharaohs Rulers of Ancient Egypt

Pharaohs Pharaohs were the kings of Egypt Pharaoh was believed by the Egyptians to be the supreme ruler chosen by the gods to lead his people They believed that when a man became a pharaoh, he also became a god According to Egyptian legend, the first kings of Egypt were later some of the most famous gods

Pharaohs The word “Pharaoh” was used by the Greeks and Hebrews The title “Pharaoh” originated from the Greek language and it is used in the Old Testament The title originates in the term "pr-aa" which means "great house" and describes the royal palace

Responsibility of Pharaohs Pharaohs ruled with absolute power Despite absolute power the Pharaoh’s rule was subject to Ma’at and was expected to govern according its principles Ma’at was the goddess and symbol of the equilibrium of the universe Any King that attempted to radically change society would be seen as destroying the equilibrium that was so important to Egyptian tradition resulting in civil war or a challenge in his authority

Succession To keep the pure line of succession, a Pharaoh passed on the throne to the eldest son born of the Principal Queen, or Great Royal Wife Each king was usually keen to demonstrate to his subjects that he was the “chosen” heir The Pharaoh owned all of the land, people, and possessions in Egypt Any personal wealth enjoyed by Egyptians people was considered a result of the generosity of the King.