Ennead facts for kids
The Ennead was a special group of nine gods and goddesses in ancient Egyptian mythology. The ancient Egyptians believed that groups of nine gods were very important and powerful. The number nine, being three times three, was seen as a sign of great strength and influence.
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The Great Ennead of Heliopolis
The most famous Ennead was the one from Heliopolis, an ancient city in Egypt. This group of nine gods and goddesses told the story of how the world was created and how life began.
The Creator God: Atum
The story starts with Atum, the first god. He emerged from the dark, swirling waters of chaos, called Nun, all by himself. Atum then created the first land, a mound that rose from the waters. He was the sun god and the creator of everything.
First Generation: Shu and Tefnut
Atum then created two children:
- Shu was the god of air and dryness. He represented the space between the sky and the earth.
- Tefnut was the goddess of moisture and dew. She brought rain and water.
Shu and Tefnut were the first pair of gods created by Atum.
Second Generation: Geb and Nut
Shu and Tefnut had two children:
- Geb was the god of the earth. He represented the land and all that grew on it.
- Nut was the goddess of the sky. She arched over Geb, separating the heavens from the earth.
Geb and Nut were often shown lying close together, with Shu holding Nut up, keeping the sky and earth apart.
Third Generation: Osiris, Isis, Set, and Nephthys
Geb and Nut had four children, who were very important in Egyptian myths:
- Osiris was the god of the afterlife, the underworld, and rebirth. He was also the god of farming and the Nile River.
- Isis was the goddess of magic, motherhood, and healing. She was Osiris's wife and sister.
- Set was the god of chaos, deserts, storms, and violence. He was Osiris's brother and enemy.
- Nephthys was the goddess of mourning, rivers, and the night. She was Set's wife and sister, and Isis's sister.
These nine gods – Atum, Shu, Tefnut, Geb, Nut, Osiris, Isis, Set, and Nephthys – formed the powerful Great Ennead of Heliopolis, telling the story of creation and the early rulers of the world.
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See also
In Spanish: Enéada para niños
