Astrophysicists have unveiled a fascinating connection between the Milky Way and the Egyptian sky-goddess Nut, shedding light on a previously overlooked aspect of ancient Egyptian mythology. Drawing from ancient texts and simulations, the study suggests that the Milky Way may have played a significant role in highlighting Nut’s celestial presence. It proposes that during winter, the Milky Way accentuated Nut’s outstretched arms, while in summer, it traced her backbone across the heavens.
Nut, depicted as a star-studded woman arching over her brother Geb, the earth god, symbolizes the sky and safeguards the earth from the encroaching void. Furthermore, she holds a pivotal role in the solar cycle, swallowing the Sun at dusk and giving birth to it anew at dawn. Dr. Or Graur, Associate Professor in Astrophysics at the University of Portsmouth, embarked on this interdisciplinary study after encountering his daughters’ fascination with the image of Nut in a museum. By blending astronomy and Egyptology, Dr. Graur examined ancient Egyptian texts alongside sophisticated simulations of the night sky, revealing compelling evidence of the Milky Way’s association with Nut.
Through his research, Dr. Graur established parallels between Egyptian beliefs and those of other cultures, demonstrating how various societies interpret the Milky Way in similar ways. For instance, Nut’s role in guiding the deceased to the afterlife and her connection to annual bird migration align with interpretations of the Milky Way as a spiritual pathway in different cultures worldwide. This interdisciplinary approach not only provides fresh insights into ancient beliefs but also underscores how astronomy serves as a universal link across diverse cultures, geographical regions, and historical periods. This study represents the beginning of a broader project aimed at cataloging and exploring the multicultural mythology surrounding the Milky Way.