Who was Anuket?
Q: Who was Anuket?
A: Anuket was the first ancient Egyptian goddess of the Nile river in areas like Elephantine Island, at the start of the Nile's journey through Egypt, and in nearby parts of Nubia.
Q: Where was her temple built?
A: Her temple was built at the Island of Seheil.
Q: Who were the gods thought to be the gods of the source of the Nile?
A: The god Khnum and goddess Satis were thought to be the gods of the source of the Nile and Anuket was believed to be their daughter.
Q: What was Anuket associated with?
A: Because tributaries move quickly, she became associated with fast-moving things, like arrows, and the gazelle.
Q: How was Anuket usually shown in art?
A: In art, she was usually shown as a gazelle, or with a gazelle's head, and sometimes had a headdress of feathers.
Q: What was the Festival of Anuket?
A: When the Nile started its annual flood, the Festival of Anuket began. People threw coins, gold, jewelry, and precious gifts into the river, thanking Anuket for the life-giving water.
Q: Was there a taboo in several parts of Egypt related to Anuket?
A: Yes, the taboo that was held in several parts of Egypt of not eating fish, which were considered sacred, was lifted during the Festival of Anuket.
