Role of the Pharaoh

Pharaoh means, "Great House." In ancient Egypt, the Pharaoh had many roles in his kingdom. He watched over the law courts and was the chief of the temples. He was an army leader and controlled trade expeditions. He supervised the water system and stored the grain. Ancient Egyptians believed that each living pharaoh was a living god. They believed that each pharaoh was the human form of Horus. The pharaohs where very important to Egypt because they pleased their gods so good fortune would come to Egypt. The pharaohs believed that everyone should be treated with justice. The pharaohs were transported from place to place on a chair carried by servants.

There were many items which stood for kingship. For example crowns, which were headresses with jewels, stood for "Supreme Rank." False beards, which were worn by kings and queens, symbolized royal authority. The sceptor also meant royal authority and was carried by kings and queens.

The pharaohs had a daily schedule. The day went like this: first, the pharaoh would go to the temple to please and pray to their god. Next, the pharaoh would hear his daily news from his trusted vizior. Then, the pharaoh would check the architectures which were built by his servants and officials. Finally, if the pharaoh had extra leisure time, he would be entertained by his servants, or he would have a conversation with his wife.