The mythology surrounding the Canaanite God Baal in the Bible can be traced to Ancient Kemet (Egypt).
The mythology of Baal in the Bible viewed in Historical context can be understood by reference to ancient Canaan’s relationship with Kemet (Egypt).
We will analyze the representations of Baal, focusing on his distinctive headwear, the Crown of Upper Southern Egypt, and the Atef of Ausar (Osiris).
Furthermore, we will explore how the rejection of Baal, as demonstrated in the biblical account of the battle with the prophet Elijah, signifies Judaism’s departure from Egyptian influences.
Canaan’s Connection to Egypt
To understand the Egyptian Kemetic origins of Baal’s mythology, it is crucial to examine the historical ties between Canaan and Egypt.
Throughout its history, Canaan experienced periods of Egyptian control, resulting in cultural exchanges and religious influences. The Egyptian Pharaohs, particularly during the New Kingdom era, held dominion over Canaan, fostering connections between the two regions.
A notable aspect of Baal’s depiction in Canaanite religious iconography is his association with headwear reminiscent of Egyptian Deities.
Baal is often portrayed wearing the Crown of Upper Southern Egypt, also known as the White Crown or Hedjet.
This regal headpiece symbolized authority over the southern regions of Egypt and featured a tall, conical shape.
Additionally, Baal is frequently depicted wearing the Atef, a headdress associated with Ausar (Osiris) in Egyptian mythology.
The Atef consisted of a tall crown adorned with ostrich feathers and ribbons, representing the regal attributes and cyclic nature of Ausar, who symbolized resurrection, fertility, and kingship.
The inclusion of Egyptian elements in the depiction of Baal suggests a significant influence of Egyptian religious traditions on Canaanite beliefs. As Canaan came under Egyptian control, cultural and religious exchanges between the two regions were inevitable. It is reasonable to assume that the Canaanites, exposed to Egyptian customs and iconography, incorporated elements of Egyptian religious practices into their own worship.
Ausar (Osiris) occupied a prominent place in Egyptian mythology, embodying themes of resurrection, fertility, and kingship. The Canaanites likely adopted and adapted these concepts to shape their understanding of Baal. The incorporation of the Atef into Baal’s imagery may reflect the Canaanites’ desire to associate their god with the regal authority and divine attributes of Ausar.
Rejection of Baal in the Bible
The biblical narrative of the battle between the prophet Elijah and the worshipers of Baal reveals a significant turning point in the religious development of Judaism.
The rejection of Baal in the biblical account of the battle with Elijah serves as evidence of Judaism shedding its Egyptian influences. This event marks a crucial moment in the development of Judaism, signifying its departure from its Kemetic roots which also included the rejection of Asherah, Yahweh’s Female Counterpart (Wife) who represented the role played by Aushet (Isis) as the divine counterpart of Ausar in Kemetic Spirituality.
Conclusion
The Egyptian Kemetic origins of the mythology surrounding Baal in the Bible demonstrate the intricate cultural and religious exchanges between Ancient Canaan and Egypt because the representations of Baal, particularly his association with the Crown of Upper Southern Egypt and the Atef of Ausar (Osiris), suggest a notable influence of Egyptian religious traditions on Canaanite beliefs.
The historical connection between Canaan and Egypt, marked by periods of Egyptian control, facilitated the transmission of Egyptian Kemetic influences into Canaanite religious practices.
In addition, the rejection of Baal in the biblical account of the battle with Elijah serves as evidence of Judaism shedding its Egyptian influences.
