Egypt's Stars: How Ancient Coffins Reveal Cosmic Beliefs

Ancient Egyptians had a deep connection with the stars. This is evident in the artwork on their coffins. The Milky Way, that bright band of stars in the night sky, has been a source of wonder for many cultures. Ancient Egyptians were no different. The sky goddess Nut is a central figure in Egyptian mythology. She is often depicted as a woman arched over the Earth, protecting it from the chaos of the void. Nut's body is often adorned with stars, and sometimes, a wavy black curve. This curve is not just a decorative element. It has a deeper meaning. The curve on Nut's body is strikingly similar to the Milky Way. This is not a coincidence. Ancient Egyptians were keen observers of the night sky. They noticed the Milky Way's distinctive shape and incorporated it into their religious art. This is not the only place where the Milky Way appears in Egyptian art. Tombs in the Valley of the Kings also feature similar wavy curves. These curves are not just random designs. They are a reflection of the ancient Egyptians' understanding of the cosmos. The Milky Way was not just a celestial phenomenon. It was a part of their mythology. It was a part of their understanding of the world. This discovery is not just about ancient Egypt. It is about humanity's enduring fascination with the night sky. It is about how we have always looked up at the stars and tried to make sense of the universe. It is about how our understanding of the cosmos has evolved over time. From ancient myths to modern science. The ancient Egyptians were not just superstitious people. They were skilled observers of the night sky. They had a deep understanding of the cosmos. This understanding was reflected in their art and their mythology. This is not just about the past. It is about the present. It is about how we continue to look up at the stars and wonder. It is about how we continue to try and make sense of the universe. Just like the ancient Egyptians did.