The wedjat, as the Eye of Horus, is one of the most popular amulets of ancient Egypt. The amulet combines elements of both human and falcon ocular imagery, with the god Horus often depicted as a falcon. Its name comes from the ancient Egyptian ‘wḏꜣt’, meaning “the one that is complete”. The wedjat was highly apotropaic and associated with a number of Egyptian myths. The eye depicted could be either left or right, representing different imagery. Horus’ left eye was the sun and the right eye was considered the moon. In one creation myth, Horus’ eye was injured or stolen by the god Seth and then restored by Thoth. Hence, the wedjat eye was thought to possess healing powers and symbolise regeneration. This healing and regenerative association is further enhanced by the properties of the lunar eye of Horus. As it waxes and wanes like the moon, it is thought to bring health and safety to its wearer. In another myth, Horus presents his healed eye to his father Osiris, to help him pass safely into his afterlife. As such, wedjat eye amulets were commonly placed within mummy wrappings to help the dead pass safely into the afterlife.
From New Kingdom onwards, a uraeus could appear at the front of or surrounding the eye. Cobras were also associated with the Eye of Ra, and the shedding of snake skin was considered a symbol of regeneration. Hence, this combination may further enhance the solar and regenerative qualities of the wedjat eye.
To discover more about amulets in the Ancient Egyptian world, please visit our relevant post: Amulets in Ancient Egypt.
