User:Equintella/sandbox/TempleofIsis

OUTLINE

I. Lead/Intro

II. Worship of Isis

A. Who Was Isis?

B. Why She Was Included In Greek Pantheon?

C. Rituals

III. Temple of Isis

IV. Egyptian Influence

A. Temple Art

B. Iconography

WHO WAS ISIS?

Though she was honored by the Greco-Romans, the goddess Isis has roots in Egyptian religion and mythology. Born as one of five children to Earth god, Geb, and sky goddess, Nut, Isis was one of the minor deities in the Egyptian pantheon; it wasn't until the Archaic Period that she became a significant deity. As a result of her rise in followers, temples for Isis started developing and eventually became a cult. Isis grew so popular that she was worshiped by everyone, regardless of gender or social status. Eventually, her cult surpassed the realms of Egypt and started to influence the Roman Empire. Her role as a protective maternal figure among the kings and the people of Egypt contribute to her popularity among her worshipers. Isis is most associated with fertility and motherhood, and was looked to as the ideal image of a queen, wife, and mother but is also known for powers in healing and magic. Because she was a fertility deity, she was looked up to by women. Eventually, she was considered among the Egyptians to be the most powerful out of all the Egyptian gods and goddesses.

In the Greco-Roman world, she is known as Isis because the Egyptian word for “throne” translates to “Isis” in Greek. However, Isis is just one of many names that followers called her. A few of her names among the Egyptians were Usert, Ankhet, and Satis - representing her powers over the earth, fertility, and the Nile, respectively. Her association with a multitude of different functions is the reason for the many titles she has. Although, her most all-compassing title is Queen of the Throne, as all Egyptian pharaohs were thought to be descendants of Isis.Isis is typically depicted as a beautiful hybrid of woman and goddess, however she took on many forms, and as such, could be more accessible to her followers. She either is shown wearing a crown or headdress full of Egyptian motifs.

Isis’ influence in Greece and Rome was a result of Alexander the Great's conquests. After his defeat of Egypt in the 4th century, the Greeks started to incorporate Isis into their pantheon of deities. Isis was easily accepted into Greek religion because of her many similarities to the Greek goddess, Demeter. Eventually, she became the patron goddess of the sea. as a protector of people traveling by sea. One of her major temples was on the island of Philae. In Rome, Isis was introduced as a replacement deity for Venus, after the death of Caesar and was looked to for guidance.

When she was introduced into Greco-Roman religion, the cult of Isis underwent some changes. It was further assimilated into Greek religious traditions, and eventually became a mystery religion. Though the rituals weren't cataloged until the Romans started keeping their records, it is speculated that members were promised immortality if they kept the cult's secrets.