Semerkhet: Unraveling the Mysteries of an Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh

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Semerkhet is the Horus name of an early Egyptian king who ruled during the First Dynasty. This video delves into the enigmatic reign of Semerkhet, shedding light on the ancient Egyptian myth surrounding him and examining the archaeological records.

According to the historian Manetho, Semerkhet's reign was marked by a tragic calamity. However, early archaeologists questioned the legitimacy of his succession to the Egyptian throne. Manetho named him Semêmpsés, crediting him with a reign of 18 years, while the Royal Canon of Turin attributed an implausibly long reign of 72 years to Semerkhet. However, Egyptologists now consider these assertions as exaggerations, agreeing that Semerkhet reigned for approximately 8½ years. The Cairo Stone inscription provides the necessary evidence for this evaluation. Furthermore, archaeological records support the notion that Semerkhet had a relatively short reign.

Semerkhet's presence is well-documented in archaeological findings. His name can be found on various vessels made of schist, alabaster, breccia, and marble, as well as on ivory tags and earthen jar seals. These objects have been uncovered in Abydos and Sakkara, further solidifying Semerkhet's place in history.

The translation of Semerkhet's serekh name as "companion of the divine community" or "thoughtful friend" is a subject of debate among scholars. The hieroglyph used, khet (Gardiner-sign F32), usually represents "body" or "divine community."

On the other hand, Semerkhet's birth name is a mystery. Artifacts displaying his birth name lack specific artistic details, featuring a walking man with a waving cloak or skirt, a nemes head dress, and a long, plain stick. This particular hieroglyphic sign has a disputed reading and meaning since it only appears in association with King Semerkhet. It is extremely rare, appearing only twice in relief inscriptions depicting ceremonial processions. Egyptologists propose various interpretations, such as Toby Wilkinson, Bernhard Grdseloff, and Jochem Kahl suggesting the reading as Iry-Netjer, meaning "divine guardian."

Semerkhet's throne name and Nebty name also provide interesting insights. The scholars read his throne name as Iry, meaning "guardian," and his Nebty name as Iry-Nebty, meaning "guardian of the Two Ladies." This reconstruction is supported by the fact that Semerkhet was the first king to use the Nebty title in its ultimate form. It is speculated that Semerkhet felt a strong connection to the 'Two Ladies': Nekhbet and Wadjet, the patron deities of Ancient Egypt worshiped after the unification of Lower and Upper Egypt.

Semerkhet's prenomen, Nisut-Bity-Nebty-Iry, translates to "King of Upper and Lower Egypt, he of the two ladies, and he who belongs to them" or "He whom the two ladies guard." This title holds significance as it is thought to complement the Nisut-Bity title.

In this video, we explore the fascinating reign of Semerkhet, unraveling the myths and examining the archaeological evidence. Join us on this journey to discover more about one of Ancient Egypt's intriguing rulers.