The Great Harris Papyrus: A Testament to Power
The Great Harris Papyrus, dating to 1150 B.C., is the longest known Egyptian papyrus, chronicling the reign of Ramesses III. Found in Thebes, this document details his military victories, religious devotion, and economic contributions.
A key scene depicts Ramesses III standing before Ra-Horakhty, the sun god of Heliopolis. This imagery reinforces the pharaoh’s divine legitimacy, linking his rule to the gods who upheld Ma’at, the balance of the universe.
Warrior-King: Defending Egypt’s Borders
Ramesses III’s reign was defined by warfare.
Victory Over the Sea Peoples (1175 B.C.) – He crushed this formidable maritime force, preventing their invasion.
Libyan Campaigns – He repelled multiple incursions, securing Egypt’s western borders.
These triumphs solidified his status as one of Egypt’s last great warrior-pharaohs.
Religious Patronage and the Gods of Heliopolis
Ramesses III heavily invested in Egypt’s religious institutions.
Massive Temple Endowments – He granted gold, silver, and land to temples, particularly those of Amun, Ra, and Ptah.
Heliopolis and Ra-Horakhty – His portrayal before Ra-Horakhty symbolized divine kingship, reinforcing his right to rule.
This religious devotion ensured the gods’ favor and reinforced his power.
Assassination and the Fall of the New Kingdom
Despite his achievements, Ramesses III fell victim to the Harem Conspiracy, orchestrated by Queen Tiye and Prince Pentawere. A CT scan of his mummy confirms his throat was slit, marking a violent end to his reign.
Though his successors attempted to maintain his legacy, Egypt’s power waned, signaling the decline of the New Kingdom.
Conclusion: The Last Great Pharaoh
Ramesses III’s reign was a blend of military strength, religious devotion, and economic foresight. His depiction before Ra-Horakhty in the Great Harris Papyrus serves as a powerful reminder of his divine right to rule.
Despite his tragic end, he remains one of Egypt’s last true warrior-kings, a ruler who fought to preserve Ma’at and Egypt’s golden age.
