CHAP. XII. 



RELIGION OF EGYPT. 



141 



Vignette L. — The two Colossi of Thebes before the temple built by Amunoph III . 

 with the ruins of Luxor in the distance, during the inundation. 



CHAP. XII. 



Religious Opinions oftlie Egyptians. — The Greeks borrowed 

 many of their Notio7is on Religion from Egypt. — The 

 Idea of the Deity entertained by the Priests, different from 

 that taught to the Jininitiated. — Nature of the Gods. — 

 Numbers. — The Deity manifested upon Earth. — Theo- 

 ries in Greek Writers. — The Great Gods. — Tr-iads. 



Before we examine the nature of the Pantlieon, 

 or the attributes of the Deities worshipped by the 

 Egyptians, it will be pro})er to take a general view 

 of their religious opinions, intimately connected as 

 they were with the manners and customs of the 

 people. 



Superstitiously attached to their sacred institu- 

 tions, and professing a religion which admitted 

 much outward show, tiie Egyptians clothed their 

 ceremonies with all the grandeur of solemn pomp ; 

 and the celebration of their religious rites was re- 



