Set is one of the first four recorded Names of Netjer, and His image appears on very ancient pottery made more than 5000 years ago. We are not sure of the exact meaning of His Name, but it might mean "to dazzle." One of His titles is "He Before Whom the Sky Shakes," because He is associated with thunder and lightning.
The Set-animal is a type of dog or wolf, with tall square ears and a straight forked tail. It might actually be the painted wolf of Africa. This animal appears as the hieroglyph of Set's Name. Set often takes the full form of this animal, or a human form with the Set-animal's head. Other animals which may symbolize Set are the donkey, the hippopotamus, and the pig.
Hieroglyphs for Set's Name
Set is the twin brother of Heru-wer and the brother/husband of Nebt-Het/Nit. He was originally given the desert to rule. In fact, the English term "desert" may come from the Ancient Egyptian word "deshret," which means "red land." Set is associated with storms, foreigners, and conflict. His strength and violence are a necessary force in the universe.
[picture of Set]
In the Ancient Pyramid Texts, there are stories about Set that help us understand Him. In one story, He drowns His brother Wesir, who then becomes King of the Underworld. This was a necessary thing to do, because the land of the dead needed a king. Set also fights Heru for the kingship, but Set eventually loses. Ra then gives Set the job of guarding the Boat of Millions of Years. Every day, Set slays Apep and keeps the Boat safe to continue its journey across the sky.
Set's power can be very frightening, but it always stays within Ma'at. Set can help if we need strength, willpower, and discipline. He is the master of these qualities, so He knows where to find them within ourselves.
Here is a prayer for Set, written by Imyt-set'a Senytmenu, who is Beloved of Set:
Mighty Set, Lord of Storms,
Who slays Apep,
No evil may stand before You.
Ruler of the Red Land, hear my prayer:
I ask for Your help,
I come in Your service;
I am Your strong and shining spear.
