The Architectural legacy of Ancient Egypt (Kemet), particularly the design of Kemetic Temples, has had a profound influence on Religious Architecture throughout History.
The majestic Temples of Egypt, characterized by their entrance flanked by two Obelisk pylons and a series of internal rooms leading to the Holy of Holies, known as the Naos, served as prototypes for various religious structures which has had a profound effect on modern Church architecture, Freemasonry in the form of Solomon’s Temple and Mosques, highlighting the recurring elements and principles derived from Ancient Egyptian Architecture in Kemet.
The Influence of Egyptian Kemetic Temple Design
- Entrance Flanked by Obelisk Pylons: One of the most prominent features of Egyptian Kemetic temples was the entrance flanked by two towering obelisk pylons. These massive structures symbolized the boundary between the sacred and profane worlds, emphasizing the significance of the temple as a sacred space. This design element has been adopted in various religious structures worldwide, including modern churches, ancient temples, and mosques.
- Internal Rooms and Corridors: Egyptian Kemetic temples featured a series of internal rooms and corridors that led worshippers on a spiritual journey. These spaces served specific functions, such as offering halls, sanctuaries, and chapels, providing dedicated areas for religious rituals and ceremonies. The concept of designated spaces for different religious activities influenced the layout of churches, temples, and mosques, where distinct areas are allocated for worship, prayer, and communal gatherings.
- Holy of Holies (Naos): At the heart of Egyptian Kemetic temples lay the holy of holies, known as the Naos. This innermost sanctuary housed the most sacred deity or object and was accessible only to a select few, usually high-ranking priests or pharaohs. The concept of a central sacred space, often hidden or secluded from the rest of the structure, influenced the design of the holy sanctums in various religious buildings, such as the inner sanctum of churches, the inner sanctum of ancient temples, and the mihrab in mosques.
Specific Examples of Influence
- Freemasonry: Freemasonry, an influential fraternal organization, drew inspiration from ancient Egyptian Kemetic temple design. The symbolism of entrance pylons and internal chambers in Egyptian temples resonated with Freemasons, who incorporated these elements into their lodge buildings. Freemasonry’s use of pillars and arches in their architecture reflects the enduring influence of Kemetic temple design.
- Solomon’s Temple: According to biblical accounts, Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem, a significant religious structure in Judaism, incorporated design elements inspired by ancient Egyptian temples. The description of the Temple’s grand entrance, columns, and inner sanctum bear resemblance to Egyptian Kemetic temple design. The influence of Egyptian architecture on Solomon’s Temple signifies the cross-cultural exchange and the recognition of Egypt’s architectural prowess during that era.
- Notre Dame Cathedral: The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, demonstrates the impact of Egyptian Kemetic temple design. The towering spires and the verticality of the cathedral’s structure find parallels in the soaring obelisks of ancient Egypt. The incorporation of vertical elements in Gothic architecture, including the use of pointed arches and ribbed vaults, can be traced back to the influence of Egyptian temple design.
- Mosques: Islamic architecture, including mosques, carries traces of Egyptian Kemetic Temple design. The concept of a central sacred space, often marked by a mihrab, shares similarities with the Naos of Egyptian temples. The use of Minarets in mosques, tall structures resembling obelisks, also reflects the influence of Egyptian architecture.
Conclusion
The architectural legacy of Egyptian Kemetic temples has left an indelible mark on religious structures around the world. The entrance flanked by obelisk pylons, internal rooms and corridors, and the central sacred space of the Naos have shaped the design of modern churches, ancient temples, Freemasonry lodges, Solomon’s Temple, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Mosques.
The enduring influence of ancient Egypt’s architectural prowess serves as a testament to the profound impact and the timeless appeal of Egyptian Kemetic Temple design.
