Backward: Ancient Egypt And Embracing the All

I honor virtue.

I live in truth.

I honor animals with reverence.

I keep my own council.

I follow my inner guidance.

I advance through my own abilities.

I embrace the ALL.

These are only a few from the 42 ideals of ma`at, an abstract concept, represented by the goddess Ma`at, which in traditional Egyptian belief, was the fundamental governing principle.

Maat symbolized truth, justice, and universal order.

I communicate with compassion.

I listen to opposing opinions.

I create harmony.

Margaret R. Bunson a writer and professional artist, and the author of the book “Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt” wrote:

“Ma’at was the model for human behavior, in conformity with the will of the gods, the universal order evident in the heavens, cosmic balance upon the earth, the mirror of celestial beauty. Awareness of the cosmic order was evident early in Egypt; priest-astronomers charted the heavens and noted that the earth responded to the orbits of the stars and planets. The priests taught that mankind was commanded to reflect divine harmony by assuming a spirit of quietude, reasonable behavior, cooperation, and a recognition of the eternal qualities of existence, as demonstrated by the earth and the sky. All Egyptians anticipated becoming part of the cosmos when they died, thus the responsibility for acting in accordance with its laws was reasonable. Strict adherence to ma’at allowed the Egyptians to feel secure with the world and with the divine plan for all creation.”

In Ancient Egypt, Ma`at was recognized as the establishment upon which Egyptian society was built. Ma`at is most famously known for her role in the afterlife ceremony known as The Weighing of the Heart of the Soul. In this iconic ceremony, Ma`at and her white feather of truth were the most important.

Ancient Egyptians strongly believed that every individual in the society was responsible for his or her own life, and that life should be lived with other people and the earth in mind. They believed that individuals should care for each other and the earth, the same way that the gods cared for humankind. When one lives in harmony in god`s Will, then he is living in harmony with Ma`at. Anyone can ignore the concept of ma`at but eventually will have to face judgment in the hall of truth in his or her afterlife.

It is time for us to re-embrace the All.

To be happy, all must be happy. To be free, all must be free.