Assignment February 8
EM 3 Pgs 109-111
Udja,
In Egyptian Mysteries 3 pages 109 -111 Dr. Ashby explains how becoming proficient in the science of philosophy and spiritual disciplines were essential for the priests and priestesses of Ancient Egypt, who had many designations of leadership in the Temples, and specialized disciplines within which they were proficient. The religion of Shetaut Neter is a very advanced science in terms of the requirements that prepare one for priestly service. There were in fact numerous levels or groups of clergy acting in different roles of service to the Temple. Each clergy member was able to select an area of specialization and demonstrate a thorough knowledge, according to the available records.
According to Dr. Ashby, preparing for the priesthood required success in learning specific academic studies of the mysteries of life and death and the nature of the Spirit and the Universe. Priests and priestesses would therefore need to study in an extensive academic program over many years. The academic process has various levels of training and and apprenticeship for the priesthood.
Through the study of wisdom teachings and apprentice practice the clergy may develop into six main groups of clergy:
a) sebai(t)
b) sbait kheria – assistant teacher instructor
c) sebai(t) philosophy teachers
d) Hmt(t) – many sublevels
e) Ab(t) apprentice priest and priestesses
f) Unut – ministers
At each of these levels, the clergy would engage in the study of the scriptures, the practice of meditation, and fasting, while working to manage the government and Temple workers along with facilitating rituals and all religious activities.
Clergy members grounded in Maatian ethics would specialize in one of five Smai Tawi (yoga) disciplines. First, the Tantric discipline involved the cultivation of the Arat Sekhem (serpent power). The second discipline, Rekh pertains to the study of wisdom. Third is Ushet, which involves the practice of devotion and overseeing ritual. Fourth, Uaa, involved the development of meditation practice. The fifth discipline, Hm Maat, (priest and priestess of Maat-judge) included being well-versed in ethics and serving in the Hekat (government). Dr. Ashby provides a quote from “Clement of Alexandra”, an Egyptian person of mixed Greek culture who describes witnessing a procession of Ancient Egyptian priests and writes about their duties as support for the practice of specialization among the clergy.
Htp
Dua Sebai Maa Dua Seba Dja
Htp Hemu
