15 Little-known Myths About Ancient Egyptian Everyday Life

In this article, we’ll debunk 15 common myths surrounding the daily life of the ancient Egyptians, from farming and food to games and foreign relations.

1. Myth: The Nile River Was a Constant Blessing

Reality: While the Nile did provide fertile soil for agriculture, annual floods often caused destruction and displacement.

2. Myth: The Pyramids Were Built by Slaves

Reality: Skilled laborers and workers, not slaves, constructed the pyramids, and they were well-compensated for their efforts.

3. Myth: All Egyptians Ate Exotic Foods Daily

Reality: While the elite enjoyed lavish feasts, the average Egyptian diet consisted of staples like bread, beer, and vegetables.

4. Myth: Hieroglyphs Were Only for the Elite

Reality: Hieroglyphs were widely used, not limited to the elite, and served various functions from monumental inscriptions to mundane records.

5. Myth: The Sphinx Represents a Pharaoh

Reality: The Sphinx’s true identity remains a mystery, with no definitive evidence linking it to a specific pharaoh.

6. Myth: Ancient Egyptians Were Obsessed with Death

Reality: While they prepared extensively for the afterlife, the Egyptians also celebrated life through art, music, and festivals.

7. Myth: Egyptians Were Monotheistic Believers in Aten

Reality: While Akhenaten briefly promoted Aten as the supreme deity, most Egyptians adhered to polytheism.

8. Myth: Cats Were Sacred and Revered as Gods

Reality: Cats were cherished and protected, but they weren’t considered gods, although they held a special place in Egyptian homes.

9. Myth: Foreign Relations Were Hostile

Reality: Egypt engaged in diplomacy, trade, and alliances with neighboring civilizations, fostering peaceful relations.

10. Myth: The Pyramids Were Tombs Filled with Treasures

Reality: Many pyramids were plundered in antiquity, and most treasures were moved to safer locations.

11. Myth: All Egyptians Wore Elaborate Jewelry

Reality: Jewelry was a status symbol, and while the wealthy adorned themselves, the average Egyptian wore simpler ornaments.

12. Myth: The Eye of Horus Symbolizes Evil

Reality: The Eye of Horus was a protective symbol representing healing and good fortune.

13. Myth: Ancient Egyptians Invented Board Games

Reality: While they enjoyed board games like Senet, they likely borrowed the concept from earlier civilizations.

14. Myth: Mummification Was a Common Practice

Reality: Mummification was primarily for the elite, while most Egyptians underwent simpler burial practices.