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Set

Set and Nephthys, 1279–1213 BCE; now located at the Louvre, Paris, France

Set

Origin: Ancient Egyptian mythology

Combination: human + unknown beast

Classification: Mammal

Other Names: Seth

Associations: deserts, natural disasters, Mercury

Set, also known as Seth or Setesh, is an ancient Egyptian deity associated with chaos, storms, and the desert. In Egyptian mythology, Set is often depicted as a powerful and enigmatic figure with the head of an unidentified animal, sometimes resembling that of a donkey or a fantastic creature. Set embodies the forces of disorder and turbulence, often portrayed as a rival to his nephew Horus, the god of kingship and order.

 

Set is known for his cunning and unpredictable nature, representing the wild and untamed aspects of the natural world. Despite his association with chaos, Set was also considered a protective deity, guarding against evil forces and defending Ra, the sun god, during his nightly journey through the underworld. Set is a complex figure, symbolizing the necessary balance between order and chaos, light and darkness, and the cyclical nature of existence.

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