The Evolution, Mythology, and Magickal Practices
The ancient Egyptian pantheon is known for its rich and diverse collection of deities, each with distinct roles and unique attributes. One such deity is Nut, the goddess of the sky, stars, cosmos, mothers, astronomy, and the universe. This research article will present an in-depth analysis of the evolution, mythology, and magickal practices associated with Nut, while also bringing to light the remarkable influence she has exerted over various aspects of life, such as art, literature, history, and religion.
Nut in Egyptian Mythology
Nut, one of the oldest and most revered deities in Egyptian mythology, is the goddess of the sky and all heavenly bodies. She first appeared in the creation myth of Heliopolis, where she emerged as a daughter of Shu, the god of wind and air, and Tefnut, the goddess of moisture. Nut’s brother and husband is Geb, the earth god, and together they parented four children: Osiris, Set, Isis, and Nephthys. In a Graeco-Egyptian version of the myth, Horus is also considered a child of Nut and Geb.
In her early depictions, Nut was represented as a star-covered nude woman arching over the Earth, with her fingertips and toes believed to touch the four cardinal points or directions — north, south, east, and west. Besides this characteristic portrayal, Nut was also sometimes shown in the form of a cow, whose great body constituted the sky and heavens. Other depictions include her as a sycamore tree or a giant sow, suckling numerous piglets representing the stars.
Of particular interest is Nut’s association with the ladder, referred to as ‘maqet’ in Egyptian iconography. According to ancient beliefs, Osiris used this ladder to ascend to the heavenly skies, making the ladder a sacred symbol for Nut, often found in tombs to protect the deceased and invoke the deity’s assistance.
Nut’s Role in Egyptian Mythology and Afterlife
Nut played an essential role in maintaining the cosmic balance and was perceived as the barrier separating the forces of chaos from the ordered world. During the day, the Sun and Moon traversed her body, only to be swallowed at dusk, pass through her belly during the night, and eventually be reborn at dawn.
Another vital aspect of Nut’s mythology is her association with the afterlife and her role as a protector of the deceased. She was regarded as a loving mother, whom the dead could seek protection and shelter from evil happenings. It was widely believed that Nut would draw the dead into her star-filled sky and offer them nourishment with food and wine.
One example that exemplifies this intimate relationship between Nut and the deceased is the following quotation taken from ancient Egyptian scripture, where the dead beseech Nut for protection and eternal life: “O my Mother Nut, stretch Yourself over me, that I may be placed among the imperishable stars which are in You, and that I may not die.”
Nut in Art, Literature, and Religion
Nut’s influence permeates various aspects of Egyptian art, literature, and religion. Her depiction as the sky goddess exerts a profound and ongoing impact on artistic forms in ancient Egypt, with countless portrayals on temple walls, tombs, and other monuments.
Similarly, her role in the mythology of the afterlife also plays a significant role in Egyptian literature, where she is often invoked as an all-powerful and benevolent deity who can provide protection and eternal life to the deceased.
Finally, Nut’s influence is also evident in religion, with many temples dedicated solely to her worship. She was worshipped alongside her husband Geb, and her brother Ra, the sun god. Nut’s role as the mother of the gods also made her a symbol of fertility, and she was often invoked for blessings related to childbirth and maternal care.
The Magickal Practices Associated with Nut
Nut’s divine status in Egyptian mythology has led many to worship her and seek her assistance through magickal practices since ancient times. These practices include spells, incantations, and rituals dedicated to the goddess, with the aim of invoking her power for various purposes.
One notable magickal practice associated with Nut is divination. In ancient Egypt, individuals would seek guidance from the deity by interpreting the patterns formed by stars in her body, believed to hold significant meaning and messages from the goddess.
Ritual of Ascension: Astral Projection with Nut
To harness Nut’s power in assisting with astral projection, the following ritual uses an invocational hymn and the ladder of Nut, the ‘maqet’ in the practice.
- Preparation: Begin by preparing a secluded space, preferably outdoors under the night sky filled with stars. This space will become your sacred sanctuary for the ritual. Arrange representations of the four cardinal points — North, East, South, and West — around you. These can be simple objects such as stones or more symbolic items like candles of different colors (blue for East, red for South, green for North, yellow for West).
- The Ladder: In the center of the space, place a representation of the ‘maqet’, the sacred ladder. This could be a small, actual ladder, a drawn or painted depiction, or a ladder crafted from natural materials like twigs and string. Or print out and use the image above as the astral sigil for NUT.
- Invocation: Stand before the representation of the ‘maqet’, and face the North. Begin by taking a few deep breaths and centering your energy. When you feel ready, recite the following hymn to call upon Nut’s presence and assistance:
Recite the following or the full Hymn to Nut
Oh Nut, the vast and divine Sky Goddess,
Mother of the cosmos, bearer of stars,
I seek your guidance, your protection, your power.
On this night, under your starlit body,
I stand before the ‘maqet’, your sacred ladder,
Seeking passage to the astral realm.
Oh Nut, in your infinite wisdom and love,
Guide my spirit through the celestial expanse,
On the path of the stars, in the silence of the night.
With each rung, I climb closer to you,
Leaving my physical form tethered to the Earth,
While my spirit soars amongst the cosmos.
- Astral Projection: Once you’ve completed the invocation, sit comfortably before the ‘maqet’. Close your eyes and visualize your spirit embarking on the ascent, climbing the ladder rung by rung. Visualize each rung glowing with the starlight of Nut’s body, filling you with divine energy that propels your spirit higher and higher, until you reach the astral plane.
- Additional Astral Projection Techniques
Remember, this is a sacred and personal experience. Trust in Nut’s protection, and know that your spirit will return to your physical body safely when the journey is complete.
This ritual is just one way to connect with Nut’s power for astral projection. Modify it as needed to suit your personal practice and comfort level. Always approach with respect and an open heart, and you will find the guidance you seek.
