ra voyage

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This Day In History : May 17

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Norwegian ethnologist Thor Heyerdahl sails papyrus boat

On May 17, 1970, Norwegian ethnologist Thor Heyerdahl and a multinational crew set out from Morocco across the Atlantic Ocean in Ra II, a papyrus sailing craft modeled after ancient Egyptian sailing vessels. Heyerdahl was attempting to prove his theory that Mediterranean civilizations sailed to America in ancient times and exchanged cultures with the people of Central and South America. The Ra II crossed the 4,000 miles of ocean to Barbados in 57 days.

Heyerdahl, born in Larvik, Norway, in 1914, originally studied zoology and geography at the University of Oslo. In 1936, he traveled with his wife to the Marquesas Islands to study the flora and fauna of the remote Pacific archipelago. He became fascinated with the question of how Polynesia was populated. The prevailing opinion then (and today) was that ancient seafaring people of Southeast Asia populated Polynesia. However, because winds and currents in the Pacific generally run from east to west, and because South American plants such as the sweet potato have been found in Polynesia, Heyerdahl conjectured that some Polynesians might have originated in South America.

To explore this theory, he built a copy of a prehistoric South American raft out of balsa logs from Ecuador. Christened Kon-Tiki, after the Inca god, Heyerdahl and a small crew left Callao, Peru, in April 1947, traversed some 5,000 miles of ocean, and arrived in Polynesia after 101 days. Heyerdahl related the story of the epic voyage in the book Kon-Tiki (1950) and in a documentary film of the same name, which won the 1952 Oscar for Best Documentary.

Heyerdahl later became interested in the possibility of cultural contact between early peoples of Africa and Central and South America. Certain cultural similarities, such as the shared importance of pyramid building in ancient Egyptian and Mexican civilizations, perhaps suggested a link. To test the feasibility of ancient transatlantic travel, Heyerdahl built a 45-foot-long copy of an ancient Egyptian papyrus vessel in 1969, with the aid of traditional boatbuilders from Lake Chad in Central Africa. Constructed at the foot of the Pyramids and named after the sun god Ra, it was later transported to Safi in Morocco, from where it set sail for the Caribbean on May 24, 1969. Defects in design and other problems caused it to founder in July, 600 miles short of its goal. It had sailed 3,000 miles.

Undaunted, Heyerdahl constructed a second papyrus craft, the Ra II, with the aid of Aymaro Indian boatbuilders from Lake Titicaca in Bolivia. With a multinational crew of seven, the Ra II set sail from Safi on May 17, 1970. After a voyage of 57 days and 4,000 miles, the ship arrived in Barbados. The story of this voyage is recorded in the book The Ra Expeditions (1971) and in a documentary film.

In 1977, Heyerdahl led the Tigris expedition, in which he navigated a craft made of reeds down the Tigris River in Iraq to the Persian Gulf, across the Arabian Sea to Pakistan, and finally to the Red Sea. The goal of the expedition was to establish the possibility that there was contact between the great cultures of Mesopotamia , the Indus Valley, and Egypt across the sea. Heyerdahl later led research expeditions to Easter Island and an archeological site of Tucume in northern Peru. For the most part, Heyerdahl’s ideas have not been accepted by mainstream anthropologists.

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May 17, 1970: The Boat Is Seaworthy and, Yes, We Can All Get Along

1970: Thor Heyerdahl sets sail with his crew from Safi, Morocco, aboard Ra II.

He will attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a boat built of reeds and succeed where the previous expedition aboard Ra I had failed.

Heyerdahl, a Norwegian zoologist, gained international fame for his Pacific Ocean expedition in 1947, when he sailed Kon-Tiki – a boat constructed of native woods from the coast of Peru – on a 101-day, 4,300-mile voyage to Polynesia. The success of Kon-Tiki supported the claims of Spanish conquistadors that similarly constructed Incan rafts made the same voyage.

More than a scientist, perhaps, Heyerdahl was humanist . In assembling the crew for the Ra II passage, he took great care to select seafarers of different nationalities, races and religions. If the stated purpose of this voyage was to demonstrate the seaworthiness of buoyant reeds, an equally important goal was to show that a diverse crew could work together and flourish in a confined space.

The 3,200-mile voyage of Ra II ended successfully 56 days later. It docked at Bridgetown, Barbados, on July 12.

Heyerdahl had another reed boat, the Tigris, constructed for a 1978 voyage hoping to prove that trade and migration were possible between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Five months into that voyage, with the Tigris still seaworthy, Heyerdahl burned his boat in protest at the entrance to the Red Sea, where his progress was blocked by warring nations in the region.

He spent his later years working for peace and the environment. Heyerdahl died in 2002 .

Source: Wikipedia

Photo: Thor Heyerdahl's raft Ra II (Kon-Tiki Museum, Oslo, Norway). The reed is not original, the rest of the vessel is. Via Wikipedia .

This article first appeared on Wired.com May 16, 2007.

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• April 22, 1970: Tell Your Mother You Love Her
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The Epic Voyage Of Ra: Creator God’s Daily Odyssey

Think of a trip. It repeats every day. A journey that starts and finishes. Like you live and die. This is the amazing trip of Ra. He is the Egyptian sun god. His daily ride in the sky and under the ground is a key part of their myths.

Key Points:

• Ra is the Egyptian sun god, creator, and central figure in Egyptian mythology.
• Ra’s daily trip symbolizes life, death, and rebirth, maintaining cosmic balance.
• Ra’s solar boat carries him across the sky during the day and through the underworld at night.
• Ra’s encounters with gods and monsters reflect Egyptian beliefs about life after death.
• Ra’s battles with Apophis represent the eternal struggle between order and chaos.
• Ra’s daily rebirth at dawn signifies a fresh start and the cyclical nature of life.
• Ra’s trip illustrates Egyptian beliefs in the interconnectedness of life, death, and the universe.

In this post, we look at his trip, from when he started and how he made everything to his daily ride in his solar boat . We look at the twelve parts of his day trip. And, his night fights with chaos in the underworld. Also, we see why he comes back each morning.

At the end, you will know a lot about Ra’s big trip and what it means in old Egyptian culture. So, let’s start this together and uncover the details of Ra’s daily trip.

The Journey Of Ra: Overview and Key Facts

Where ra came from.

If you want to know Ra’s big trip , it’s very important to see where he came from and how people showed and honored him in old Egypt. Look at early pictures. How people honored Ra. These early pictures and honors start from a long time back. And they include many different forms. Showing how people saw and respected Ra in various ways, it tells us a lot about old Egypt.

Early Pictures and Worship of Ra

Early pictures in old Egyptian art and writings show Ra with a bird head and a sun circle , which shows he controls the sky and the sun. These pictures go back to the Old Kingdom , about 2500 BCE, and you can see them in many temples and tombs. Ra’s worship was common across Egypt.

In Heliopolis, he was the main god. Ra’s worship was big, like main gods in today’s religions. Old Egyptians respected Ra through different habits and events. They thought his daily trip across the sky brought life and made things right.

Key parts of Ra’s worship included:

• Temples : Big temples for Ra, like the Sun Temple at Heliopolis.
• Rituals : Daily offerings and prayers to make sure Ra’s trip goes well.
• Festivals : Events like the “Feast of Ra” to respect his power and presence.

By knowing these early pictures and habits, we see the big influence Ra had on old Egyptian culture and religion.

Ra’s worship in ancient Egypt was widespread and influential, with key aspects including temples, rituals, and festivals to honor his power over the sky and sun.

Ra as the Creator

In old Egyptian stories, Ra plays an important part as the god who made everything. He was in charge of making the world and other gods. The story says Ra came out of the early waters of Nun, brought light and made the messy space right.

Then, because of his power, he made other gods like Shu (air) and Tefnut (moisture). They had Geb (earth) and Nut (sky). This set up the main things of the world. As the sun god, Ra’s daily trip across the sky shows the cycle of life , death, and starting again. It makes sense.

Ra ‘s role is important in many ways:

• Light and Order : When Ra came out of mess, he showed how making right things from wrong things.
• Life and Growth : The sun’s light, which is part of Ra, is needed for life and growing things on earth.
• Cyclical Nature : Ra’s daily trip shows natural cycles like life, death, and new beginnings.

By knowing about Ra as the one who made all, we get what the old Egyptians thought about the world and the god powers that run it.

Ra’s Daily Ride Across the Sky

We already looked at Ra’s beginning and his part as the creator . Now, look at his daily trip across the sky, and the vehicle that takes him.

The Solar Boat: Ra’s Sky Ride

Ra’s daily trip across the sky happens because of his special boat , which takes him from morning to evening. This heavenly boat , shown in old Egyptian art, is decorated with different signs and gods that help Ra on his way. Look at this boat. It’s not like a chariot, but it moves across the skies, making sure the sun goes through the sky and life keeps going on earth.

Every part of this boat has a big meaning, so let’s see the parts and their meanings.

By looking at the parts and meanings of the special boat , we understand more about how old Egyptians thought about Ra’s daily trip and its role in keeping the universe right.

The Twelve Parts of Ra’s Trip

Ra’s sky trip is split into twelve different hours, each showing a special part of his ride. These hours aren’t just time markers, but they have deep meanings and challenges Ra must face. First hour is dawn, where Ra comes out, showing the birth of light and start of a new day. Ra brings life and warmth during morning hours, getting strongest at noon.

Then, the afternoon hours start to show his power going down, getting ready for the underworld trip.

Every hour of Ra’s trip is full of challenges. For example, in the fifth hour, Ra has to move through dangerous waters of the heavenly Nile, facing things that block his way. By the ninth hour, Ra meets the snake Apophis, an enemy that stands for chaos and darkness. This fight is important because it shows the never-ending struggle between order and chaos. The last hours see Ra going down into the western horizon, preparing for his night travel in the underworld. Here’s a look at the twelve hours and their meanings:

• Hour 1 : Dawn, start of light.
• Hour 2 : Morning, brings life and warmth.
• Hour 3 : Mid-morning, more strength.
• Hour 4 : Late morning, nearly the strongest point.
• Hour 5 : Noon, most powerful.
• Hour 6 : Early afternoon, starts to weaken.
• Hour 7 : Mid-afternoon, facing tough times.
• Hour 8 : Late afternoon, getting ready for night.
• Hour 9 : Meets Apophis.
• Hour 10 : Early evening, going down.
• Hour 11 : Twilight, entering underworld.
• Hour 12 : Night, ready for night trip.

By seeing these twelve parts of Ra’s trip, we understand more about how Egyptians thought about the sun’s trip and its important job in keeping the universe in balance.

Ra’s Nightly Trip into the Underworld

When the sun sets and Ra finishes his sky trip , he starts a dangerous trip through the underground world . He goes through the land of the dead till morning .

The Amduat: Ra’s Underworld Map

The Amduat , an ancient Egyptian burial text , is a detailed guide to Ra’s nightly trip through the underground world . This text, meaning “That Which Is in the Afterworld,” is split into twelve parts, each matching an hour of the night. Think of the Amduat as a heavenly map or guidebook, carefully outlining the path Ra must take and the challenges he will face. The structure of the Amduat is important for understanding Ra’s trip, giving a step-by-step account of his meetings with different gods, spirits, and obstacles. Each part is full of symbolic pictures and descriptions, giving a look into what ancient Egyptians believed about the afterlife and the order of the universe. Here is a breakdown of the structure of the Amduat :

• First Hour : Ra goes into the underground world, greeted by protective gods.
• Second Hour : Ra moves through the waters of the underground world.
• Third Hour : Ra meets the spirits of the dead.
• Fourth Hour : Ra goes through the land of Sokar , a god of the underground world.
• Fifth Hour : Ra meets the snake Apophis for the first time.
• Sixth Hour : Ra gets to the midpoint of his trip, showing rebirth.
• Seventh Hour : Ra fights Apophis, overcoming chaos.
• Eighth Hour : Ra is renewed by the gods of the underground world.
• Ninth Hour : Ra keeps going, now stronger.
• Tenth Hour : Ra gets ready to come out of the underground world.
• Eleventh Hour : Ra gets close to the eastern horizon.
• Twelfth Hour : Ra is reborn, ready to rise again at dawn.

By understanding the Amduat , we gain a deeper appreciation for what the ancient Egyptians believed about the afterlife and how Ra’s nightly trip was vital in keeping the universe balanced.

Meeting Gods and Monsters

At night, while traveling in the dark place Ra meets many gods and evil spirits . Each has a significant part in his trip. Some of these are protective, like Anubis , the jackal-headed god who guides and protects Ra through the dangerous paths. Ra also meets Osiris , the god of the afterlife, who shows coming back to life and living forever. But, there are also evil beings.

Like Apophis, the serpent of chaos, who tries to eat the sun god and throw the world into darkness. These meetings are sort of like a hero finding both friends and enemies on a dangerous trip. Each meeting changes what happens next.

The importance of these meetings is that they show what ancient Egyptians believed about life after death and the universal order. The protective gods show order and safety, making sure Ra’s trip works and that the sun will come back. On the other hand, the evil spirits show the always-there danger of chaos and destruction. These meetings show how Egyptians saw life after death as a complicated, ever-changing place where order and chaos fight all the time. Here’s a list of important gods and evil spirits Ra meets and what they mean:

• Anubis : Guide and protector, shows safe passage.
• Osiris : God of the afterlife, means coming back to life.
• Apophis : Serpent of chaos, symbolizes destruction.
• Sokar : God of the dark place, linked with darkness.
• Hathor : Goddess of love and joy, gives new life.
• Maat : Goddess of truth and justice, keeps universal balance.

By knowing these meetings, we learn more about what the ancient Egyptians believed about life after death and how Ra’s nightly trip keeps the universe in balance.

Ra’s encounters with various gods and evil spirits during his nightly travels reveal the ancient Egyptian beliefs about the balance between order and chaos in life after death.

Battles with Apophis

Every night, Ra fights a tough battle with Apophis , the chaos serpent, who wants to eat up the sun god and stop the morning. It’s not just a physical fight but a universal one, showing the endless struggle between structure and chaos. If Ra loses, Apophis would throw the world into endless darkness, breaking the balance of the universe. Ra’s win over Apophis every night made the ancient Egyptians feel sure the sun would rise again, keeping the natural order and life cycle going. Here are key points about the fight and its meaning:

• Ra : Shows structure, brightness, and life.
• Apophis : Means chaos, darkness, and destruction.
• Symbolism : Endless fight between structure and chaos.
• Importance : Ensures the sun’s return and keeps the universe balanced.

By knowing about this nightly fight, we understand more about the ancient Egyptians’ strong beliefs in the repeated nature of life and the needed watchfulness to keep harmony in the universe.

Ra’s New Day and Fresh Start

After beating Apophis and fixing universal order , Ra gets ready to come out from the dark place, starting a new morning.

Waking Up: A New Day for Ra

Every morning, Ra is born again , coming out from the dark place to go up in the eastern sky, showing a new start and the looping nature of life. This daily rebirth is like the daily rising sun, bringing light, warmth, and new chances. In old Egyptian culture, this happening was marked by many practices and activities made to respect Ra and make sure he has a good trip. Priests would do songs and calls at dawn, calling Ra’s power and celebrating his win over darkness. Temples focused on Ra, like the famous Sun Temple at Heliopolis, were centers for these daily activities. Here are some key parts of these activities:

• Morning Hymns : Songs and calls to say hello to Ra’s return.
• Offerings : Food, incense, and other offerings to respect Ra.
• Temple Ceremonies : Activities done by priests to keep Ra strong.
• Sunrise Observations : Watching the sunrise as a sign of Ra’s new start.

By knowing these practices, we see how the old Egyptians celebrated the looping nature of life and the important part of Ra in keeping the balance of the universe.

What Ra’s Journey Means

Ra’s everyday trip in the sky and through the dark place is full of meaning , shows how old Egyptians saw the world. This trip is like a never-ending fight between light and dark, with Ra showing structure and life. The old Egyptians thought Ra’s win over Apophis each night kept the world going and the balance straight. This never-ending fight is a strong example of the constant watch needed to keep the world balanced. Here are key parts of the meaning and importance of Ra’s journey :

• Cosmic Balance : Ra’s trip shows the keeping of the world’s balance.
• Ongoing Battle : Shows the constant fight between structure ( Ma’at ) and chaos ( Isfet ).
• Cycle of Life : Shows the looping nature of life, death, and being born again.
• Daily New Start : Stresses the need for a new start and toughness.

By knowing the deeper meanings behind Ra’s trip, we see how old Egyptians saw the world and their strong belief in the linked nature of life, death, and the world.

1. Why is Ra so important in Egyptian myths?

Ra is so important in Egyptian myths because he is considered the supreme creator god and the sun deity, central to the cosmology and daily life of ancient Egypt.

2. How did Egyptians show Ra in their art?

Egyptians showed Ra in their art typically as a man with a falcon head crowned with a sun disk encircled by a serpent.

3. What is the Amduat, and why does it matter?

The Amduat is an ancient Egyptian funerary text that matters because it provides a detailed map of Ra’s journey through the underworld, reflecting the Egyptians’ beliefs about the afterlife.

4. How does Ra’s journey show Egyptian ideas about life and death?

Ra’s journey shows Egyptian ideas about life and death by symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence and the eternal struggle between order and chaos.

Hi, I'm Cedric Ferris. I got into mythology because of my all-time favorite game "Age of Mythology." So, I am now showing my love using this blog, and I am looking into myths, stories, and folklore from all over the world. Come with me on this trip into the magical and the mythical stuff!

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The Ra expeditions

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The Ra Expeditions

Documentary of the Ra expedition organized by Thor Heyerdahl, which crossed the Atlantic Ocean in a papyrus boat in 1969 and 1970. Documentary of the Ra expedition organized by Thor Heyerdahl, which crossed the Atlantic Ocean in a papyrus boat in 1969 and 1970. Documentary of the Ra expedition organized by Thor Heyerdahl, which crossed the Atlantic Ocean in a papyrus boat in 1969 and 1970.

• Lennart Ehrenborg
• Thor Heyerdahl
• Norman Baker
• Roscoe Lee Browne
• Abdullah Dilbrine
• 1 User review
• 2 Critic reviews
• 1 nomination total

Top cast 10

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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User reviews 1

• March 23, 1972 (United States)
• The Kon-Tiki Museum
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 36 minutes

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May 17, 1970: Thor Heyerdahl’s Ra II Sails From Morocco To Cross The Atlantic

A Brief History

On May 17, 1970, Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl’s boat made of reeds in the ancient way set sail across the Atlantic Ocean to prove people from North Africa could have reached the New World by boat .

Digging Deeper

Heyerdahl, born in 1914, was already famous for his 1947 voyage from South America to Polynesia on his balsa wood raft, Kon-Tiki , proving Native South Americans could have traveled to Polynesia, thus being the source for the population there.

Making the nearly 5000 mile trip in 101 days, the Kon-Tiki voyage prompted other adventurers to replicate the voyage, and several successfully did so, strengthening Heyerdahl’s thesis. The documentary film about the voyage won a 1951 Oscar (Academy Award) and the remake also won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language film of 2012.

Unknown to scientists at the time of Kon-Tiki ’s voyage, the DNA evidence available today indicated that Polynesian people had probably come from Southeast Asia and not South America. Even in the 1940’s through 1970’s critics of Heyerdahl disputed his theory about the settling of Polynesia.

Still, in 1970, Heyerdahl was a celebrity and a respected ethnologist when he attempted the Ra and Ra II expeditions. The Ra was made of papyrus reeds in the manner of the Middle East, and in 1969 made it to within 100 miles of Caribbean islands, before modifications made during the trip caused the boat to fall apart. The Ra II was made of a different variety of reed (totora) and made its voyage in 1970 to Barbados with comparative ease, proving travel from North Africa to the Western Hemisphere was possible even thousands of years ago.

A documentary of the Ra and Ra II voyages was made in 1972, and Heyerdahl showcased the multi-ethnic, multi-nationality nature of his crews. He also took many samples of marine pollution along the way, a valuable scientific contribution.

Always one to preach the message of peace and of people getting along, in 1978 Heyerdahl burned his third great adventure craft, the Tigris in Djibouti as a protest to the wars and military posturing going on in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa area at that time.

The Tigris was also a reed boat, this time made and launched from Iraq, demonstrating how Mesopotamians could have traveled to Pakistan and on to the Red Sea. Although seaworthy and successful, Tigris was stopped by military vessels from entering the Red Sea, prompting the public burning of the craft.

Heyerdahl continued to research his theories of how ancient people and civilizations spread, ranging from Central Asia to Scandinavia and islands in the oceans. He wrote numerous books and frequently spoke presenting his views and adventures. Along the way Heyerdahl earned many honors and awards (academic and otherwise) including having a Norwegian frigate (destroyer like warship) named after him.

Heyerdahl died of a brain tumor in 2002, and although many other scientists disagreed with his theories, he did inspire many researchers and adventurers to embark on a variety of expeditions in the manner of Heyerdahl’s. Truly a modern adventurer, few people in the past 70 years could match his exploits. Question for students (and subscribers):  Who would you consider his peers as modern adventurers ?  Please let us know in the comments section below this article.

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Historical Evidence

For more information, please see…

Crampton, Patricia and Thor Heyerdahl.   The Ra Expeditions (English and Norwegian Edition) .  Doubleday, 1971.

Major Daniel Zar is a retired veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He served during the Cold War and has traveled to many countries around the world. Prior to his military service, he graduated from Cleveland State University, having majored in sociology. Following his military service, he worked as a police officer eventually earning the rank of captain prior to his retirement.

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Companions: Hathor Isis Sekhmet Bastet

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Ra | The Sun God of Egypt

The ancient Egyptians revered Ra as the god who created everything. Also known as the Sun God, Ra was a powerful deity and a central god of the Egyptian pantheon. The ancient Egyptians worshiped Ra more than any other god and pharaohs often connected themselves with Ra in their efforts to be seen as the earthly embodiment of the Sun God.

Ra (pronounced ray) represents sunlight, warmth and growth . It was only natural that the ancient Egyptians would believe him to be the creator of the world, as well as part of him being represented in every other god. The ancient Egyptians believed that every god should illustrate some aspect of him, while Ra himself should also represent every god .

Ra’s Appearance

Ra was usually depicted in human form. He had a falcon head which is crowned with a sun disc . This sun disc was encircled by a sacred cobra named Uraeus. Ra has also been depicted as a man with the head of a beetle and also a human man with the head of a ram. The ancients also depicted Ra in full species form such as a serpent, heron, bull, lion, cat, ram, hawk, beetle, phoenix and others. His main symbol, however, is the sun disk.

© Bill Stanley - The Egyptian God Ra

Ra Mythology

The ancient Egyptians believed that as the sun god , Ra’s role was to sail across the heavens during the day in his boat called the “Barque of Millions of Years.” In the morning when Ra emerged from the east, his boat was named, “Madjet” which meant “becoming strong.” By the end of the day the boat was called, “Semektet” which meant “becoming weak.” At the end of the day, it was believed that Ra died (swallowed by Nut) and sailed on to the underworld, leaving the moon in his place to light up the world. Ra was reborn at dawn the very next day. During his journey across the heavens during the day, he fought with his main enemy, an evil serpent named Apep, or also, The Lord of Chaos. In some stories, Ra, in the form of a cat named Mau, defeats the evil serpent, Apep. This is part of the reason why cats are so highly-revered in Egypt.

© Lucas - Ra, depicted as a cat, defeating Apep

Ra created himself from the primordial chaos. He is also known as Re and Atum . His children are Shu, the God of Dry Air and Father of the Sky, and his twin sister Tefnut, the Goddess of Moisture and Wetness. As a lion-headed goddess, Tefnut is responsible for dew and freshness. Humans were created from Ra’s tears.

Although Ra was highly revered and devoutly worshiped by the ancient Egyptians, there is a story to suggest he eventually grew weak. In the Legend of Ra, Isis and the Snake , as Ra grew old, he dribbled saliva. Isis knew that Ra’s power was hidden in his secret name. Isis gathered Ra’s saliva and created a snake out of it. She set the snake in Ra’s path and it bit him. Isis wanted the power Ra had always enjoyed, but she knew she had to get him to tell her his secret name. Eventually, because of the pain he was in, Ra allowed Isis to “search through him” and in so doing, she healed him and Ra’s power was transferred over to her.

© Walwyn - Isis on the Solar Barque of Ra

The Tree of Life is an important religious symbol to the Egyptians. The Tree of Life was located within Ra’s sun temple in Heliopolis and was considered sacred. The fruit that sprang from this tree was not available to humans, but only in aging-rituals reserved for pharaohs. The Tree of Life is also referred to as the mythical, sacred Ished tree. Eternal life came to those who ate the fruit from the Tree of Life.

Another important ancient Egyptian symbol connected to Ra is the “Bennu” . Bennu is the name of the bird that represented Ra’s soul. This bird is a phoenix and it was seated at the Tree of Life in Ra’s Sun Temple in Heliopolis. Inside the temple, on top of an obelisk , sat the Benben Stone. This pyramid-shaped stone served as a beacon to Bennu and is also an important ancient Egyptian religious symbol.

© milk fat - The Bennu Bird

Worship of the Sun God

Solar temples were built for Ra but did not contain a statue of the god. Instead, they were created to be open to the sunlight that Ra represented. The earliest known temple built in honor of Ra exists in Heliopolis (what is now a Cairo suburb). This solar temple is known as “Benu-Phoenix” and is believed to have been erected in the exact spot where Ra emerged into creation.

Although Ra dates back to the second dynasty, he is not the oldest of the Egyptian gods. It wasn’t until the fifth dynasty that Ra became closely associated with the pharaoh. As the king and leader of Egypt, the pharaoh was seen as the human manifestation of Horus , so the two gods became connected. This new deity fusion was then referred to as “Ra-Horakhty” meaning Ra is Horus of the Horizon. Ra’s relationship with other gods did not stop there. As the powerful creator of mankind and the sun god, he also became associated with Atum to make “Atum-Ra.”

Fifth Dynasty and subsequent pharaohs were all known as “The son of Ra” and Ra became incorporated into every pharaoh’s name from then onward. During the Middle Kingdom, the new deity, Amun-Ra was formed. Amun was one of the gods who formed the Ogdoad (the assembly of eight gods who represented eight elements of creation).

© isawnyu - Relief of Ramses II making an offering to Ra and Nekhbet

The New Kingdom brought new heights of worship to Ra. Many tombs in the Valley of the Kings portray depictions of Ra and his journey through the underworld. During this time, many solar temples were built.

Present in the ancient Egyptian mythology is the Eye of Ra , shown as the sun disk with two 'uraeus' cobras coiled around it, next to the white and red crowns of Upper and Lower Egypt. Initially associated with Horus (similarly to the wadjet, the Eye of Horus), the Eye of Ra shifted positions in the myths, becoming both an extension of Ra's power and a separate entity altogether.

Click here to learn more about The Eye of Ra

Ra God Facts

• The ancient Egyptians worshiped Ra to such an extent above other gods that some historians have argued that ancient Egyptian religion was indeed a monotheistic one with Ra as the singular god.
• Historians believe that the pyramids might represent rays of sunlight, further connecting the pharaohs with Ra, the sun god.
• During Ra’s journey through the heavens he was accompanied by several other gods including Thoth , Horus , Hathor , Maat , Abtu, and Anet.
• Nut, goddess of the sky and heavens, is sometimes referred to as Ra’s mother, because he emerges from her and is reborn every morning.
• The morning manifestation of Ra is known as “Khepri the scarab God.”
• The evening manifestation of Ra is known as the ram-headed god, Khnum.
• The sacred cobra that encircled Ra’s crown symbolized royalty, sovereignty and divine authority.
• The right eye of Ra represented the Sun; while the left eye of Ra represented the moon.
• Ra is also closely associated with the Tree of Life myth, the Ben-Ben Stone and the Bennu Bird myths.
• Ra’s glory came to an end during the time when the Roman’s conquered Egypt in 30BC.
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World History Edu

• Egyptian Mythology

What is the significance of Ra’s daily journey through the Underworld?

by World History Edu · September 12, 2023

The daily journey of Ra, the sun god in ancient Egyptian mythology, was a symbolic and central belief that held deep significance in Egyptian religion and cosmology.

Below, World History Edu presents the fundamental concepts that this belief represented in ancient Egypt:

The concept of renewal

Ra’s journey through the underworld during the night, only to emerge again at dawn, symbolized the daily renewal of life. The rising sun brought light, warmth, and energy to the world, rejuvenating all living things. This daily cycle of rebirth and renewal was seen as essential for the sustenance of life on Earth.

Af or Afu, often referred to as Afu-Ra, represents the ram-headed manifestation of Ra during his journey through the Duat, which encompasses the 12 hours of night and the underworld. During this voyage, Ra is seated on the Mesektet barque. The creator deity is accompanied by Sia (the embodiment of perception), who is positioned on the left and at the front of the barque, as well as Heka (i.e. the manifestation of magic) situated on the right and behind the barque. This sacred journey is safeguarded by the presence of the protective coiled serpent deity known as Mehen.

These deities, in addition to the likes of Seth , Hathor, and Sekhmet, were regarded as unique forces that assisted the creator in his journey through the underworld. While Heka had a dedicated following and cult, Sia did not enjoy the same level of devotion and recognition.

READ MORE: Egyptian Deities that protected Ra

The daily renewal of Ra served as a fundamental cornerstone of Egyptian religious thought and cosmology. It offered a deep insight into the perpetual rhythms of life, death, and the cosmos. The themes of resurrection and the cyclical essence of existence were central, profoundly influencing Egyptian culture, spirituality, and perspective on the world. Image: Solar deity Ra in his ram-headed form traveling through the underworld in his solar barque on the subterrestrial Nile, from the copy of the Book of Gates in the tomb of Ramses I (KV16)

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Ra’s Solar Boat

Resurrection

Ra’s daily rebirth served as a powerful metaphor for the idea of resurrection and life after death. Just as Ra experienced a symbolic death each night and returned to life each morning, the ancient Egyptians believed in the possibility of an afterlife where the soul could experience a similar rebirth. This belief was central to their funerary practices and rituals, where preparations were made to ensure a successful journey to the afterlife.

The Cyclical Nature of Life and Death

Ra’s daily journey reflected the Egyptians’ understanding of the cyclical nature of existence. Life and death were not viewed as linear, but as part of an eternal and repeating cycle. This cyclical worldview emphasized that, just as the sun rose and set each day, life would continue in an unending cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Ra was a significant deity in the Egyptian pantheon and represented the sun. His daily journey across the sky and his subsequent rebirth highlighted the importance of the sun as a life-giving force. Ra was often depicted with a solar disk on his head, emphasizing his solar attributes and role in sustaining life on Earth. Image: Depiction of Ra’s barge (supposedly a Mandjet barge model) being processed. Carved onto a wall of a Temple of Isis on the Philae Island, Egypt.

Cosmic Order

Ra’s daily resurrection was closely linked to the concept of Ma’at , which represented cosmic order, balance, and harmony in Egyptian belief. Ra’s return each day symbolized the maintenance of this divine order and the perpetuation of a balanced and orderly universe.

READ MORE: Major Creation Myths From Around The World

Solar Theology

Ra was a significant deity in the Egyptian pantheon and represented the sun. His daily journey across the sky and his subsequent rebirth highlighted the importance of the sun as a life-giving force. Ra was often depicted with a solar disk on his head, emphasizing his solar attributes and role in sustaining life on Earth.

Ancient Egyptians believed that the sun’s rising and setting represented the constant cycle of creation, destruction, and rebirth in the universe. Image: Ancient Egyptian god Ra embarks on his daily journey across the sky aboard the solar barque, adorned with the radiant sun-disk.

Religious Practices

The belief in Ra’s daily resurrection influenced daily religious practices in ancient Egypt. Daily rituals, prayers, and offerings were made to honor Ra and ensure the successful continuation of his journey, as well as the well-being of the world.

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Richard Nixon

Message to thor heyerdahl and the crew of expedition ra..

YOUR message and your mission remind the leaders and the peoples of all nations that we are all travelers together on this ancient ship called Earth. You are pursuing two of the noblest aims of man-the quest for knowledge of his past and the hope for peace in his future. May your courageous voyage bring you safely to port and may your eminent example contribute to greater cooperation among all nations for all that is best for mankind.

Note: The expedition led by Thor Heyerdahl, Norwegian explorer and anthropologist, left Morocco on May 17, 1969, aboard the Ra, a 60-70 foot boat of woven papyrus. They traveled 2,600 miles to within 600 miles of Barbados before being forced to abandon the craft. Although partially submerged, the Ra drifted on alone to South America.

On July 3, 1969, the President received a radio message from Thor Heyerdahl in mid-Atlantic. The President radioed his message n reply to the crew of the Ra on the following day. The message from Thor Heyerdahl follows:

Seven men from seven nations, attempting to cross the widest span of the Atlantic Ocean from Morocco in Africa to the New World in a replica of an ancient Egyptian papyrus ship, take pleasure in sending you, Mr. President, our message of best wishes upon having covered 2,000 miles and thus completed half our voyage. Our objective is to investigate whether or not it might have been possible for ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean area to bring cultural impulses to the original populations of the New World.

Simultaneously, it is our desire to experiment in small scale with international cooperation under difficult and stressed conditions and thus to test the unity of mankind both in time and space. Our expedition has the privilege to sail under the flag of the United Nations, together with the flags of each nation represented on board, which are: the United States represented by Norman Baker, the Soviet Union by Yuri Senkevich, Italy by Carlo Mauri, Chad by Abdoulaye Djibrime, Egypt by Georges Sourial, Mexico by Santiago Genoves, and Norway by the undersigned. Having found in our little world of floating papyrus bundles that cooperation of men of different national, racial, linguistic, religious, and political backgrounds can be readily accomplished and highly fruitful to the common cause, we take the liberty to extend symbolically the sincere wish that the captains of greater vessels, like the large and small powers, shall have success in every effort made to encourage friendship and cooperation between the different peoples of the world in the true spirit of the United Nations. Respectfully yours, THOR HEYERDAHL

Richard Nixon, Message to Thor Heyerdahl and the Crew of Expedition Ra. Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/239540

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The Ra Expeditions

By Geoffrey BibBY

• Aug. 22, 1971

Let it be said immediately that Thor Heyerdahl has pulled it off again. He has written a superb adventure‐book about a superb adventure.

One begins ‘The Ra Expeditions” apprehensively because it is so obviously a sequel to “Kon‐Tiki,” published in 1950. Sequels to phenomenal successes, beloved of publishers, have broken the reputation of many an author. And this is not just a sequel to a best seller—the whole venture that the book is about is a sequel. And at first sight rather a dubious one.

The Kon‐Tiki voyage was undertaken to prove a theory: that the only type of seagoing vessel known to have been used by the Peruvian Indians—a balsa raft—was capable of reaching the Polynesian islands off the Pacific, where there were culture‐elements that could plausibly be South American. The book about that voyage was a most successful afterthought. The suspicion might well obtrude that the Ra voyage was undertaken in order to write a book about it. Heyerdahl's purpose was to show that representatives of an ancient Mediterranean civilization could have reached South America. But why use a reed boat, as Heyerdahl did, when the Egyptians built and sailed quite substantial wooden ships, unless to make the voyage gratuitously more uncertain, more Kon‐Tiki‐like? Why build Ra by the pyramids, if not for publicity?

Then, too, the first Ra expedition failed. As the world knows, the papyrus boat broke up a few hundred miles from the West Indies, and it was only after a second attempt, a year later, that Heyerdahl and his crew reached Barbados.

But Thor Heyerdahl takes up each of these objections himself, and deals with them forthrightly. The boat was of reeds, not because the Egyptians only knew reed boats, but because only reed boats are known both in Egypt and in America. If civilization was introduced into Central America from the Mediterranean, but the idea of wooden ships was not, then the sea link was probably the reed boat. The Ra was built by the pyramids because the building of Egyptian papyrus boats is a dead art, preserved only in tomb‐paintings and the theories of Egyptologists, both most readily available in Cairo. (And have nothing against a publicity bonus, so long as publicity is not the only reason.)

As for the failure—that turns out to be the best argument for the whole venture. It was the weaknesses of Ra I's construction that left it to drift helplessly for long periods and made it impossible for it to travel anywhere except America. And anyway, it was an experiment in ship construction, and it is the experiment which succeeds at first attempt that is suspect, rather than the one that fails, is modified, tried again and succeeds.

That the voyage was not undertaken in order to write the book I can, as it happens, myself testify. For I met Thor Heyerdahl briefly in 1957, and he was dearly thinking along the lines which were to lead to the Ra voyage a dozen years later. So the experiment was genuine and justifiable, and we can with a clear conscience read the book.

Heyerdahl has lost none of his magic of phrase, and the transla tion renders faithfully the laconic playing‐down of real danger and hard work which comes almost naturally to Norwegians. We are introduced most thoroughly to the reed boat as still existing—in Peru, Mexico, Central Africa and Ethiopia —and this section, a third of the whole book, might be tedious, were it not for the superb color illustrations, and for the circumstance that such fact‐finding preliminaries are in real life necessary to the setting‐up of experiments, and deserve recording by the author and attention from the reader.

Once the construction of Ra I is underway, the pace is fast enough, and the book is compelling reading as the vessel gradually approaches America and gradually falls more and more to pieces. Nor is the Ra II voyage, which ends the book, anticlimatical. On the contrary, it takes the same story onward to the final triumph as, escorted by 50 vessels of all types, Ra sailed into Bridgetown harbor.

But what does the experiment prove? Thor Heyerdahl is modest. “I still don't know,” he writes. “I have no theory but that a reed boat is seaworthy and the Atlantic is a conveyer. But I would hereafter consider it barely short of a miracle if the multitude of active maritime expeditions during the millennia of antiquity never happened to... be swept off course while struggling to avoid shipwreck in the dreaded currents around Cape Juby.” Yet his book leaves little doubt that he firmly believes that the “bearded white men” recorded as bringing civilization to Central America came from the Mediterranean. Though he does not say so in so many words, he seems to envisage them as of mixed Egyptian and Phoenician origin and probably making the crossing in the centuries about 1000 B.C. Here, I think, he may even be unduly conservative.

My own work lies in another ocean, but we now know that the merchant adventurers of Dilmun were sailing the Indian Ocean from the west coast of India to Mesopotamia—a distance greater than from Africa to Central America—at least as early as 2500 B.C. As a landlubber archeologist I had assumed that these were coastal voyages and therefore less noteworthy. But if the Ra experiment proves anything, it is that the coasts are perilous and that primitive ships are safer far out at sea—and early mariners undoubtedly knew this better than we.

Thor Heyerdahl's experiment shows, too, that we cannot take wooden construction for granted. Representation of Indian Ocean ships of the third millennium B.C. are few and inaccurate, but we must now look at them with fresh eyes, and speculate whether they might have been of reeds (which grow in such abundance in lower Mesopotamia). Less than three months ago I was aboard a boat in the Arabian Gulf built on the lines of Ra, but of palmleaf stems rather than reeds. Perhaps Thor Heyerdahl will consider a voyage in such a craft from Babylon to Mohenjo‐daro, for his next venture?

Ra: Sun God of Ancient Egypt

So, there I was, standing under the blazing Egyptian sun, a symbol that's been linked for ages with Ra, the Sun God of Ancient Egypt. I found myself irresistibly pulled into the complex maze of myths, symbols, and history that surrounds this mysterious god. But, Ra was more than just the sun god. He symbolized order, creation, and even the essence of royalty. As a researcher, what captivates me isn't just interpreting the vivid symbolism related to Ra, but also unraveling why his influence persisted across various epochs of Egyptian history. Delving into Ra's story isn't just about academic interest; it offers a chance to understand a civilization's faith at its core and provides an intriguing peek into how the Ancient Egyptians saw their world and their role in it. So, are you up for joining me on this fascinating journey?

Understanding Ra's Divine Role

Let's have a chat about Ra, the sun god of ancient Egypt. But he's not just a sun god, he was an integral part of ancient Egyptian daily life. Think of him as the CEO of order, kings, and the sky, maintaining balance in the universe by battling the serpent of chaos, Apophis, every day. Ra was the boss of the gods, and his influence was everywhere. Basically, the ancient Egyptian universe revolved around him.

Now, being a sun god, Ra had a lot on his plate. Besides lighting up the world, he was responsible for carrying the sun across the sky in his solar barque. And let me tell you, it was no easy task, as it involved fighting Apophis, the embodiment of chaos. Ra was also a creator, believed to have given birth to the universe and life itself. His three daughters, known as the Eyes of Ra, were respected as symbols of his life-giving power.

One interesting thing about Ra is that his identity was kind of fluid. He often merged with other gods like Amun, Horakhty, Khepri, and Khnum, creating a complex network of divine beings. These combinations highlight the complexity and dynamism of ancient Egyptian faith, showing us that Ra wasn't a static figure but a deity with many facets, reflecting the diverse fabric of ancient Egyptian cosmology.

Decoding Ra's Iconography

When we focus on the imagery related to Ra, we uncover a wealth of symbols that give us a better understanding of his divine status and power. Known as the King of the Gods, the symbols associated with him mirror the power of a sunrise, his role as a sun god, and his position as the head honcho of the Egyptian pantheon.

Let's look at some key elements related to Ra's imagery:

• Ra is often shown as a man with a falcon's head, topped with a sun disk and a cobra. This represents his solar power and divine protection.
• The Eye of Ra, symbolizing his power and wrath, is a frequent feature in his imagery.
• Ra's connection with other Egyptian gods is also noteworthy. His persona is often intertwined with leading deities like Amun, Osiris, and Horus, underlining his dominant position within the Egyptian pantheon.
• The reverence for the Mnevis bull, seen as an embodiment of Ra's power, further highlighted his importance in Egyptian religious customs.

A closer look at Ra, the Sun God of Ancient Egypt, shows his pervasive and mighty status. Every symbol linked with Ra tells us something unique about his divine role and power.

Ra's Interactions With Other Deities

Let's take a look at Ra's deep-seated connections with other gods and goddesses, shall we? The tale of Ra, the Sun god of ancient Egypt, is full of intriguing interactions that highlight his importance and expose the detailed religious and cultural beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. Ra's influence wasn't limited to just the sun in the sky—it reached all the way into the underworld and beyond.

Case in point: Ra and Osiris, the underworld god. These two merged to symbolize the sun setting and the concept of death. Ra also joined forces with Amun, an ancient deity, creating Amun-Ra. This demonstrates Ra's ability to adapt and be everywhere at once.

Within the Ra cult, Ra's duties were pretty hefty. He was in charge of the sky, the earth, and the underworld. He didn't rule with kid gloves. Sometimes, he had to flex his muscles and order his daughter Sekhmet to discipline humanity. So, you can see that his relationships with other deities, including his own children, could be a bit complicated.

Ra's dealings with other deities, whether through family bonds, conflicts, or partnerships, make for a fascinating story. This deep dive into the complex and intricate world of ancient Egyptian mythology offers us a greater understanding of this ancient civilization.

Importance of Ra Worship

Delving into the heart of ancient Egyptian mythology , we find the pivotal role of the sun god, Ra. Ra's vast network of relationships with other deities paints a vivid picture of the complex and intricate belief system of this ancient civilization. But it's the passionate reverence for Ra that truly reveals the depth of his influence in their religious life.

Being one of the oldest deities, Ra's impact was far-reaching. His worship underscored the awe-inspiring power of the sun and his role as the life-bringer and the architect of the universe.

The significance of Ra's worship is seen in several ways:

• Tangible expressions of faith :
• The existence of temples devoted to Ra, particularly Sun Temples that bore considerable importance.
• The cult of Mnevis bull in Heliopolis, a prime location for worship.
• Its mythological implications :
• Ra's daily voyage across the sky, where he vanquishes Apophis, is seen as a symbol of light triumphing over darkness.
• The belief that Ra is the creator of the universe, a fundamental tenet in ancient Egyptian religion.

The worship of Ra was not simply about praising a deity; it was a reflection of their spiritual and cultural values. This made Ra, the Sun God of Ancient Egypt, an essential element of their religious existence.

Legends and Myths of Ra

When we delve into the rich stories surrounding Ra, we find a god who was more than just a symbol of the sun. He also represented order, royalty, and the essence of life. Ra, the sun god, was a central figure in Egyptian mythology. His daily journey across the sky was a symbolic representation of time and a daily battle against disorder, represented by the serpent Apophis.

In the stories of creation, Ra is said to have risen from the primeval waters, essentially birthing himself. As the god Atum, he is credited with the creation of the first divine pair, Shu and Tefnut, who subsequently gave birth to the earth and sky. For this reason, the ancient Egyptians viewed Ra as the progenitor of all things, including the Pharaohs, who were regarded as 'children of Ra'.

With the rise of Christianity, Ra's significance diminished, but his legacy persists in the Book of the Dead and other ancient writings. These texts provide a deep understanding of how the ancients viewed their world, their deities, and their position within the universe, highlighting the importance of Ra: the Sun God of Ancient Egypt, and his pivotal role in the stories and legends surrounding him.

Frequently Asked Questions What Was Sun God Ra Known For?

You know, when we chat about ancient Egyptian culture, Ra is a name that often comes up. He's a pretty big deal, famed for his position as the sun god, the one who created the universe, and the guardian of order. Those epic trips he'd take across the sky are the stuff of legends.

What Is the Ancient Sun God Ra?

You might ask, "Who is Ra?" Well, let me tell you. Ra is quite a significant figure from ancient Egyptian times, widely admired as the sun god. His reputation stems from his daily trips across the sky and his legendary struggles with the demon Apophis. These tales beautifully illustrate the never-ending cycle of life.

What Is Ra the Sun God Secret Name?

You know, I've done some research on this fascinating topic. Turns out, according to the lore, Ra, the Sun God, had a secret name that held all his power. The story goes that Isis, in a clever scheme, managed to coax this name from him. However, here's the kicker – we don't actually know what this name was! Despite my best efforts, I couldn't find a single ancient text that records it. It's a bit of a mystery, isn't it?

Who Is Ra the Sun God Wife?

The sun god Ra from ancient Egypt was initially married to Hathor, a deity associated with music and motherhood. As time went on, Hathor's identity began to blend with other goddesses such as Sekhmet and Bastet. This represented a sense of balance and protection in the lineup of Egyptian gods and goddesses.

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The Ra Expeditions Mass Market Paperback – August 1, 1972

• Print length 336 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Signet
• Publication date August 1, 1972
• Dimensions 7 x 1 x 5 inches
• ISBN-10 0451051211
• ISBN-13 978-0451051219
• See all details

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Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Signet (August 1, 1972)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 336 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0451051211
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0451051219
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 8 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7 x 1 x 5 inches
• #1,133 in Expeditions & Discoveries World History (Books)
• #3,792 in Travelogues & Travel Essays
• #7,774 in Foreign Language Reference

About the author

Thor heyerdahl.

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