ANCIENT EGYPTIAN STUDY GROUP - 6 Disks

rwcarter

A dancer performs before six statues of the moon goddess, most likely Hathor (see the Empress) who was also goddess of music, dance and song. Her dance is an offering to the deity. Dancing simulates the rhythm of the universe and is an imitation of the divine "play" of creation. It's a reinforcement of strength, emotion and activity. Ritual dancing is a means of establishing a connection between heaven (the divine) and earth (the mundane).

Around her feet are a variety of other offerings including fruits, models and amulets. Because of the proximity of the objects, she has a need to watch her step lest she disturb any of the objects.

As part of this dance, her hands are accentuated. The hand is a symbol of activity and power. An open hand implies that no secret is being kept. Open hands symbolize bounty, liberality and justice. Outstretched hands represent blessing, protection and welcome. There are many metaphors concerning hands:
  • "to give a hand" is to help out or to show recognition or appreciation
  • "to have things well in hand" is to have them under control
  • "to force one's hand" is to force someone into making a decision or into making their move (ostensibly before they're ready)
  • "to bite the hand that feeds you" is to turn on one's source of supply
  • "to live from hand to mouth" is to spend money as fast as it's earned
  • "to eat out of someone's hand" is to be totally subservient to their wishes or to be under their complete control
  • "to be hands on" is to be controlling
  • "to win hands down" is to win without question or to win effortlessly
  • "to hand over" is to give up or delegate
  • "to keep a hand in" is to stay involved

In the background is a truncated pyramid. Missing its capstone, the suggestion is that the pyramid is unfinished.

Rodney