Ma’at is the goddess of truth, justice, ethics, balance, and harmony. She is always depicted with an ostrich feather, either on her head or in her hands, and she sometimes also has wings and a scepter to highlight her divinity and power.
Ma’at was the daughter of Ra, and in many accounts she is credited with bringing the world into existence. In particular, she is seen as the epitome of Egyptian civilization and culture, and citizens and royalty alike were encouraged to mirror her good judgment, strong morals, and refined ethics. By emulating Ma’at, the people of Egypt would be honoring balance and harmony, essential to the universe and to the survival of their kingdom.
Ma’at was often pictured with Ra in his boat as they moved across the sky. She was part of the Eye of Ra, which helped protect him from his archenemy Apep, the evil serpent who tried to attack his progress each day. Ma’at’s Feather of Truth was used in the Weighing of the Heart ceremony after death. The dead of Egypt had all of their internal organs removed except for the heart before embalming. It was thought that they would take this with them to the scales to be judged by Anubis in Duat (the underworld). If their heart was heavier than the feather, they were eaten by a demon; however, if their heart was lighter than the feather, Anubis would escort them on their heavenly ascent to Aaru.
In many versions of Ma’at’s myth, she is not only the counterpart of Thoth, she is also his wife.
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Try it for Free!Ma'at Quick Reference
Parents
Ra
Power / Domain
- Truth
- Justice
- Ethics
- Balance
- Harmony
Symbols / Attributes
- ostrich feather
- wings
- scepter
Notable Myths
- Creation Story
- Eye of Ra
- Weighing of the Heart
How Tos about Ma'at: Egyptian Goddess
Introduce Maat with a visual storytelling activity
Start by showing students an image of Maat and ask them to describe what they see. Use prompts to encourage observation and curiosity. This approach engages multiple senses and helps students connect with the concept of Maat beyond words.
Connect Maat to classroom rules and fairness
Lead a discussion about classroom rules, fairness, and honesty. Relate these qualities to Maat and ask students to give examples from their school life. This helps students see how ancient values are still relevant today.
Create a collaborative Maat mural
Invite students to draw symbols or scenes that represent Maat—such as feathers, scales, or acts of truth. Combine drawings into a mural. Visual collaboration reinforces understanding and teamwork.
Facilitate a role-play about making fair choices
Guide students in acting out scenarios where fairness and honesty are challenged. Let them decide the best actions using Maat as their guide. Role-play makes abstract concepts concrete and memorable.
Reflect on personal experiences with Maat's values
Ask students to write or share stories about times they acted with honesty or fairness. Encourage thoughtful reflection and positive reinforcement. This step deepens personal connections to Maat and builds character.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ma'at: Egyptian Goddess
What is Maat in ancient Egyptian culture?
Maat was the ancient Egyptian concept of truth, justice, balance, and order. She was both a goddess and a principle that guided daily life, law, and the universe's harmony.
Why was Maat important to Egyptian society?
Maat was essential because Egyptians believed maintaining her principles kept their world balanced and protected them from chaos. Leaders, judges, and citizens all followed Maat to ensure fairness and stability.
How did ancient Egyptians represent Maat?
Ancient Egyptians often depicted Maat as a woman with an ostrich feather on her head, symbolizing truth and justice. The feather itself was a visual icon for Maat in art and hieroglyphs.
What role did Maat play in the afterlife?
In Egyptian beliefs, Maat's feather was used in the 'Weighing of the Heart' ceremony. If a person's heart balanced against the feather, they were judged worthy for a peaceful afterlife.
How can teachers explain the concept of Maat to students?
Teachers can compare Maat to ideas of justice or fairness today, using stories, images of the feather, and classroom activities that highlight the importance of honesty, balance, and truth.
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