The Forty-two Commandments of Maat
The Goddess Maat held a place of great importance in ancient Egyptian religion, embodying the core principles of Justice and Truth. Her iconography is rich with symbolism, most notably featuring the scale and the feather, the latter always depicted on her head in artistic representations. Maat was more than a deity; she personified Cosmic Order, standing in stark contrast to the sterile chaos that threatened harmony. Her influence extended deeply into Egyptian society, with her priests developing a comprehensive set of guidelines designed to foster social improvement and individual integrity.
Unlike the punitive nature of many modern legal systems, these Egyptian norms were viewed as pathways to a harmonious life and mutual respect among individuals. Interestingly, these ancient prescriptions found echoes in later religious traditions. The Hebrews, for example, adopted and radicalized many of these principles, integrating them into the Ten Commandments under Moses. However, in the Egyptian context, these rules were not merely edicts to be followed under threat of punishment; they were considered essential for the well-being of the community and the individual's spiritual development.
This holistic approach to law and morality highlights a sophisticated understanding of human nature and societal needs, arguably aligning closely with modern psychological insights. The detailed list of Maat's principles covers a wide array of ethical conduct, from prohibitions against murder and theft to more nuanced directives about respecting others' beliefs and not acting out of anger without valid reasons. Each rule reflects a deep commitment to maintaining balance and order in all aspects of life.
Here is the list:
- Do not kill and do not let anyone kill.
- Do not betray the person you love or your spouse.
- Do not live in anger.
- Do not spread terror among people.
- Do not assault and do not cause pain to others.
- Do not exploit others and do not practice slavery.
- Do not cause harm that could bring pain to humans or animals.
- Do not cause the shedding of tears.
- Respect others.
- Do not steal what does not belong to you.
- Do not eat more food than you deserve.
- Do not harm Nature.
- Do not deprive anyone of what they love.
- Do not bear false witness.
- Do not lie to cause harm to others.
- Do not impose your ideas on others.
- Do not act to cause harm to others.
- Do not speak about the affairs of others.
- Do not listen in on the affairs of others.
- Do not ignore Truth and Justice.
- Do not judge others poorly without knowing them.
- Respect all sacred places.
- Respect and help those who suffer.
- Do not get angry without valid reasons.
- Never obstruct the flow of water.
- Do not waste water for your own needs.
- Do not pollute the earth.
- Do not take the name of the Neteru in vain.
- Do not scorn the beliefs of others.
- Do not exploit others' faith to cause harm.
- Do not pray to the Gods too much or too little.
- Do not exploit the goods of your neighbor.
- Respect the dead.
- Respect sacred days even if you do not believe.
- Do not steal offerings made to the Gods for your own use.
- Do not scorn sacred rites even if you do not like them.
- Do not kill animals without a serious reason.
- Do not act with insolence.
- Do not act with arrogance.
- Do not boast of your well-being in front of others.
- Respect these principles.
- Respect the law if it does not contradict these principles.
