What does Thoth look like?
1What does Thoth look like? Have you ever thought about what the ancient Egyptian god Thoth looked like? This amazing figure is a huge part of the ancient Egyptian mythology and religion. Firstly, Thoth is famous as the god of writing, wisdom, sorcery, and the moon. Also, his presence is full of symbolism and mirrors his great roles in the ancient Egyptian world. Additionally, Thoth is usually depicted in two main appearances; the first one is a human with the head of an ibis.
Then, the ibis bird is famous for its long, bent neck, as it was considered holy in ancient Egypt, representing sagacity, wisdom, recognition, and knowledge. Also, the Egyptian name of Thoth means who is like the ibis, which points to this relation, as in this shape, Thoth usually wears crowns such as the adf crown or the upper and lower Egypt’s crown. In addition, these types of crowns spot his sacred authority and role in controlling order among the gods.
The second form of Thoth
Then, the second shape of Thoth is as a baboon, as this animal is also holy to him and is usually shown seated with its paws resting on its knees. Additionally, in this shape, Thoth usually has a lunar disc and crescent on his head; these point to more connection of him to the moon. Just like in his ibis appearance, the baboon style might also wear crowns that give control to his status among the deities. Both of Thoth’s appearances help to highlight his functions as a middleman and adviser to the gods. He is a backer of scribes and taking a vital role as a judge in the hereafter. In many myths, the baboon Thoth is presented as a judge of the dead with Osiris, as this spots how important he is in controlling celestial balance and justice.
Summary
Statues and reliefs of both forms have existed in ancient Egyptian art, which are real symbols of his celestial assignment. The ibis head pictures wisdom and writing, while the baboon appearance points to judgement and lunar power. These perceptible forms helped the ancient Egyptians recognize and respect Thoth’s main role in their religion and daily life.