Ma'at is both a Name of Netjer and the force of balance and harmony in the universe. She is the daughter of the Creator Tem-Ra, and was the first thing to come forth from Him. As a Goddess, She is depicted as a woman with a white ostrich feather bound to Her head. She also often appears with wings.
[picture of Ma'at with wings & feather on head]
The Kemetic symbol of wings has several meanings. One is the power of flight soaring high above to get a better view of things. The second is the idea that wings are like fans, breathing air and life into whatever they touch. Wings are also a symbol of protection, as the Goddess enfolds them around a person in Her embrace.
The wedge-shaped platform often seen under statues of the Names is also a symbol of Ma'at. It represents the "mound of creation" where the Creator first appeared. This shows that Netjer stands on Ma'at, the basis of harmony and balance in the universe. The hieroglyphs of Her Name contain this platform.
Hieroglyphs of Ma'at's Name
Judges in ancient Kemet were called "priests of Ma'at" because Ma'at is very much concerned with justice. The concept of Ma'at is a combination of truth, harmony, justice, order, and doing what is right.
Here is a prayer to Ma'at, written by Her Holiness the Nisut (AUS):
O Ma'at, Feather of Truth
Tickle my heart that it not be so heavy.
Through Your truth, guide me to the answers,
to the right.May I always honor You.
May I always serve You.
May we walk the Way, together,
Feather of Truth,
Feather of my heart.
Test your knowledge!
[click on question to see answer]
1. Name two symbols associated with Ma'at.
2. What do Ma'at's wings symbolize?
3. Who created Ma'at?
Click here for more information about Ma'at the concept.
