As we delve into the intricacies of ancient Egyptian astronomy. We uncover a legacy that intertwines the cosmic with the cultural. Our journey begins amidst the golden sands of a civilization time has not forgotten, where the ancient Egyptians, a people of profound wisdom, intricately charted the heavens above. They left behind an astonishing array of decans, yearly calendars, and star charts, meticulously woven into their everyday lives and eternal beliefs.
Our ancient predecessors meticulously observed the heavens, creating an Egyptian calendar that stretched the confines of time, making a significant contribution to the history of Western astronomy. The Egyptian astronomical texts offer a glimpse into an era where the night sky was more than just a spectacle. It served as a celestial canvas for their theology, science, and governance.
By understanding their stargazing practices, we peer into a time-hallowed tradition of astronomy that firmly placed the ancient Egyptians as forerunners in the grand celestial waltz. The vivid narratives painted upon their tomb ceilings and laid out within their sacred scripts bring to light an Egyptian tradition of astronomy that remains as enduring as the constellations themselves.
Key Takeaways
| 1 | Ancient Egyptian astronomy reveals a culture deeply connected with celestial movements. |
| 2 | Decans and star charts played a key role in shaping the Egyptian civilization’s yearly calendar. |
| 3 | The legacy of ancient Egyptians is foundational to the history of Western astronomy. |
| 4 | The Egyptian tradition of astronomy is vividly captured in their astronomical texts and artifacts. |
| 5 | The study of these ancient practices offers insight into their sophisticated understanding of the cosmos. |
| 6 | Egyptian astronomical knowledge was deeply infused with their cultural and religious practices. |
Why did the Egyptians show interest in astronomy?
Several reasons sparked the ancient Egyptians’ strong interest in astronomy. Firstly, the annual flooding of the Nile River was crucial to their agricultural society. They believed that the positioning of the stars and planets could affect the river’s behavior. By studying the movements of celestial bodies. They hoped to predict these flood patterns, enabling them to prepare for the agricultural season.
Additionally, the Egyptians were also very religious, and they believed that the stars and planets represented the gods and had significant influence on their lives. They built numerous temples and monuments aligned with celestial events and integrated their astronomical knowledge into their religious practices. Furthermore, their interest in astronomy also stemmed from a desire to measure time.
The Egyptians were the first culture to create a calendar based on the movements of the stars, which was essential for religious festivals, agricultural planning, and predicting natural events.
In conclusion, the ancient Egyptians engaged in astronomy due to its practical implications in daily life, its deep intertwining with religious beliefs, and its provision of valuable tools for measuring time and planning agricultural activities.
The Origins of Native Ancient Egyptian Astronomy
The genesis of ancient Egyptian science finds its roots deeply embedded in the fabric of ancestral cultures. Within this wellspring of wisdom lies an intricate tapestry of astronomical expertise, revealing a civilization that gazed skyward with reverence and curiosity.
We can trace the origins of Native Egyptian astronomy back to the early civilization of ancient Egypt. Egyptian astronomy began as an essential part of their religious practices, with the observation of celestial bodies playing a significant role in their belief system.
The ancient Egyptians were keen observers of the night sky, tracking the movements of the stars and planets and developing a sophisticated calendar based on the lunar and solar cycles. They believed the stars connected to the gods and played a vital role in their daily lives and in the afterlife.
They used their knowledge of astronomy not only for religious purposes but also for agricultural planning and navigating the Nile River. Over time, their understanding of the celestial bodies advanced, and they constructed intricate monuments such as the Pyramids and the Sphinx, which aligned with certain celestial events.
This demonstrates their remarkable expertise in astronomy and their ability to apply it to various aspects of their society. The study of Egyptian astronomy provides valuable insights into the ancient civilization’s intellectual and scientific achievements.
The Stone Circles at Nabta Playa
In the swathes of desert that stretch across Upper Egypt, the mystery of the prehistoric period manifests itself through the stone circles of Nabta Playa. Dating back to the 5th millennium BCE, people believe these megalithic structures signal one of humanity’s earliest known astronomical observations, showcasing our enduring quest to understand the cosmos.
Early Calendrical Systems and the Nile Flood
A necessity to predict the vital annual flooding of the Nile, which shaped agricultural and societal rhythms, spurred the advent of the 365-day Egyptian calendar. This innovative system exemplified an advanced understanding of the annual cycles, a beacon of Egyptian scientific achievement.
Constellations and Deities in the Night Sky
Our ancestors imbued the sky with stories of Egyptian gods, mapping divine narratives upon the celestial sphere. This constellation system was uniquely Egyptian, illustrating the profound cultural connection between the terrestrial and the celestial in an enchantment of stars and mythology.
Alignment of the Monuments: Decoding the Stellar Order And The Rising of Sirius
The ancient Egyptians harbored a visionary understanding of the cosmos, integrating it seamlessly with their monumental architecture. We take a closer look at how these alignments were achieved and what they signified.
The Pyramids’ Connection to the Pole Star in Regards to Ancient Egyptian Astronomy
The Egyptian pyramids are a marvel, not only of engineering but of precise astronomical alignment. Egyptian architects meticulously aligned these eternal stones toward Thuban, the era’s pole star. As Thuban passed the meridian, they attuned uniquely to the precession of the equinoxes. This positioned the pyramids in a permanent dialogue with the heavens.
Temple Alignments and Heliacal Risings
The revered temple complex of Amun-Re at Karnak exemplifies the astounding application of celestial phenomena in architectural design. The Egyptians focused on the heliacal rising of Sirius and aligned the temple to honor this annual event, which tied intrinsically to the flooding of the Nile and the Egyptian calendar. Moreover, such alignments resonate with the changing angles caused by the obliquity of the ecliptic, reflecting a profound understanding of the behavior of the planets in ancient construction.
Deciphering Cosmic Legends: Egyptian Mythology in the Stars
In this section, we explore the rich tapestry of Egyptian mythology as it is inscribed across the celestial sphere. Ancient Egyptian astronomical texts and theological scriptures paint a complex universe, where cosmic and cultural narratives intertwine. Central to these narratives were the deities and royal figures that graced the night sky as stars. Let us unfurl these celestial stories and comprehend how the ancient Egyptians perceived their universe through the stars.
The Book of Nut and its Celestial Imagery
The Book of Nut stands as a paramount example of Egyptian theological texts, drenched in cosmic imagery. This ancient manuscript offers us insights into how the Egyptians envisioned the cosmos. The portrayal in the text shows the sky as a living entity, the goddess Nut, stretching across the firmament. Stars transformed into deities dance upon this astral plane, weaving intricate relationships between the gods and the mortals below. The depiction of stars like the ‘morning star’ and the ‘evening star’ highlights their roles as pivotal moments in the morning and evening of each day. Symbolizing the perpetual cycle of life, death, and rebirth in the heavens.
Pharaohs Among the Stars: Ascension Beliefs and Cultural Practices
The Pyramid Texts, among the earliest of the ancient Egyptian astronomical texts, reveal that upon death, pharaohs ascended to the heavens to become immortalized among the stars. These texts align with Egyptian buildings such as pyramids which themselves reflect an astronomical legacy, pointing towards eternity. The ascension of a pharaoh was akin to the daily journey of the stars, where each evening they descended into the underworld, only to be reborn as the morning star, triumphant and renewed.
We discover that Egyptian stories and beliefs reflected deeply in their society. The idea of divine rulership was closely linked to celestial bodies. Stars and constellations symbolized royal power and spiritual elevation. Our analysis reveals the depth of Egyptian celestial worship and its impact on their cultural heritage.
Merging Cultures: Ptolemaic Influences on Ancient Egyptian Astronomy
In Ptolemy’s era, Greco-Roman Egypt was a melting pot for ideas, significantly influencing astronomy. Egyptian, Greek, and Babylonian traditions merged, especially in Alexandria. This city was a Hellenistic world hub.
The Blending of Greek, Babylonian, and Ancient Egyptian Astronomy
Tracing ancient astronomy reveals the impact of Greek and Babylonian influences on Egyptian practices. Their union sparked a scientific revolution. From this, vital tools and theories in modern astronomy emerged. This blend of knowledge, flourishing in Ptolemaic Egypt, transformed our cosmic understanding. It bridged cultures and left a lasting legacy.
Alexandria: A Fusion of Astronomical Progress
Alexandria symbolizes the era of astronomical enlightenment. Here, Claudius Ptolemy created works like the Almagest. These influenced both Greco-Roman and Islamic intellectual worlds. Egypt’s position facilitated cross-cultural exchanges, nurturing astronomy’s growth. This laid a foundation for future sciences.
Our exploration shows this era’s mix of culture and science. Its legacy was crucial for Islamic astronomers in Egypt. This intellectual heritage, from the Greco-Roman era, set directions for celestial studies. It continues to inspire our understanding of the stars and cosmos.
Celestial Innovations
Advancements During Greco-Roman Egypt
The Greco-Roman period was crucial for Roman Egypt’s architecture and scholarship, particularly in astronomy. This time is known for Claudius Ptolemy, whose work greatly advanced the field. We acknowledge Ptolemy’s vital contributions to celestial studies.
Our analysis highlights innovative astronomical tools and methods from this era. The cosmos was a focus for scientific study, not just mythology. Ptolemy’s equant, for predicting planetary motion, was a major advancement. His Almagest, with detailed star cataloging, blended observation with mathematical precision. It laid the groundwork for future astronomers and demonstrated Roman Egypt’s scientific prowess.
As chroniclers of these innovations, we’re amazed by the astronomical legacy of ancient times. Let’s explore Ptolemy’s contributions, which have significantly influenced our understanding of the stars and universe.
| Advancement | Description | Legacy |
| The Equant | A hypothetical point used by Ptolemy to describe the uniform circular motion of planets in the sky. | Provided a foundation for the concept of epicycles and deferents, that helped future generations conceptualize planetary orbits. |
| Star Catalog | An extensive listing of stars and their positions, a testament to the efforts in celestial documentation. | Served as a primary reference that influenced star charts and celestial studies for centuries thereafter. |
| Astronomical Tools | Refinement and invention of instruments such as astrolabes, which enhanced the precision of celestial measurement. | Established essential techniques for high-accuracy observations that remained crucial in the science of astronomy. |
Our exploration of the cosmos, using modern tools and knowledge, is guided by past astronomical geniuses. Their curiosity and intellect forged the paths to the stars. We owe our advancements and journey into the unknown to Claudius Ptolemy and Greco-Roman wisdom.
Detailed Star Knowledge: From Decanal Clocks to Astronomical Ceilings
Exploring ancient Egypt’s night skies reveals their astrological skill. By the 9th Dynasty, astronomers etched heavenly bodies into society. They used decanal clocks and diagonal star tables. Celestial images adorned sacred spaces and burial items. This blended religious art with scientific exploration.
Interpreting ‘Diagonal star tables’
In our exploration, we encounter the prominent use of diagonal star tables. These were not mere artistic expressions but functional tools—a form of Egyptian star clocks—crucial for noting the passage of time under the veil of darkness. Inscribed with the imagery of Egyptian deities and decans, they were vital to the ancient practice of astronomical observation, guiding priests and astrologers in ritual and routine.
The Artistry and Utility of Celestial Diagrams
Our interest deepens as we examine the astronomical ceilings of tombs and temples. Here, ancient Egyptians grandly depicted the cosmos. These depictions were more than ornamental. They acted as star maps, charting the paths of gods and the deceased in the afterlife. These diagrams revealed constellation alignments and movements. They offered a deeper understanding of their eternal rise and set in the sky.
| Artifact | Description | Usage |
| Diagonal Star Tables | Tables painted on coffin lids, illustrating deities and stars in a diagonal array. | Facilitated nocturnal time-keeping and aligned significant religious events. |
| Astronomical Ceilings | Rich visuals on temple and tomb ceilings mapping out celestial bodies and events. | Served as guides for souls in the afterlife and provided insights for the living. |
| Decanal Clocks | Clocks based on the decans, which divided the night into precise hourly intervals. | Used for determining nocturnal hours for rituals and temple ceremonies. |
Through these artifacts and inscriptions, our predecessors sought to conserve their celestial wisdom, enabling us to perceive the shadows they cast on time’s canvas—a legacy of temple books and star-strewn ceilings that continues to inform and inspire.
Names of the 36 Decans
Kher-khept-Kenmut, Ha-tchat,
Pehui-tchat, Themat-Hert,
Themat-Khert, Ustha,
Bekatha, Tepa-khentet,
Khentet-Hert, Khentet-Khert,
Themes-En-Khentet, Sapt-Khennu,
Her-Ab-Uaa, Shesmu,
Kenmu, Semtet,
Tepa-Semt, Sert,
Sasa-Sert, Kher-khept-Sert,
Khukhu, Baba,
Khent-Heru, Her-Ab-Khentu,
Qet, Sasaqet,
Art, Khau,
Remen-Heru-An-Sah, Mestcher-Sah,
Remen-Kher-Sah, A-Sah,
Sah, Septet,
Integration With Architecture: Temple and Pyramid Alignments
The ancient Egyptian pyramids and temples provide a testament to the sophistication and dedication of Egyptian astronomers and architects. Through architectural wonders steeped in astral significance, they mirrored the perfection of cosmic landscapes on Earth. We discern how sacred structures were not only places of worship but also powerful symbols of a society’s pursuit of harmony with the heavens.
‘Stretching the Cord’ Ceremony and Astronomical Precision
The ‘Stretching the Cord’ ceremony was integral to the construction of Egyptian pyramids and temples, epitomizing the fusion of ritualistic dedication with astronomical precision. This ancient rite saw the pharaoh, or a high priest, aligning the foundation of these sacred structures with the rising sun, cementing a celestial bond between the earthly domain and the divine.
The Mystical Alignments Towards The Brightest Star of Temples Across Egypt
Our exploration through time reveals the core of ancient Egypt’s temple architecture. These structures along the Nile Valley align with celestial events. They are oriented towards the northern constellation Meskhetyu. They also align with Sirius, the brightest star, on key dates. This architectural ingenuity shows a quest for celestial order. It integrates the landscape into a sacred blueprint. This reflects the civilization’s aspiration to connect with the stars.
- Alignment with the North Star: Temples built with alignments calculated to pinpoint the North Star, epitomizing ancient navigational expertise.
- Significance of Sirius: The heliacal rising of Sirius, marking the inundation of the Nile, was crucial in temple design, woven into the fabric of their very foundations.
- Solar Stations: From solstices to equinoxes, Egyptians mastered the art of aligning their structures with the sun’s path, dictated by the rhythms of the cosmos.
Astronomy’s Influence on Ancient Egyptian Daily Life
In the tapestry of ancient Egyptian civilization, astronomy was not merely an academic curiosity; it was a critical thread woven into the very fabric of daily life. The patterns observed in the sky informed their timekeeping and directly influenced the structuring of an advanced civil calendar. This calendar, pivoting on a pragmatic observation of the heavens, was crucial for the management of both their celestial rites and terrestrial chores.
Timekeeping and the 365-Day Calendar
Unveiling the sophistication of Egyptian chronometry, we find a society that utilized celestial cycles to develop a 365-day calendar. Rooted in the predictable, annual flooding of the Nile, this calendar was a testament to their ingenuity, dividing the year into three seasons that corresponded with pivotal agricultural cycles. Unlike the fragmented month constructs of a lunar calendar, this solar-based system provided an enduring scaffold for their societal structure, underpinning every aspect from crop irrigation to tax collection.
The Seasonal Importance: Religious and Agricultural Implications
Astronomy was crucial in ancient Egypt’s religious life. The moon’s phases and journey were not just nightly lights but also a sacred clock. They marked times for religious festivals and farming tasks. Priests predicted the Nile’s flooding, tying their farming to this annual event. This linked earth and sky, bringing harmony. Their civilization flourished along the Nile, guided by stargazers who aligned their fate with the stars.
Islamic Era and the Preservation of Stellar Wisdom
As custodians of a rich astronomical heritage, we, in the Islamic era, continued to nurture the seeds of celestial knowledge first sown by ancient civilizations. The medieval Islamic world, particularly during the time of the caliphates, beheld a renaissance in Islamic astronomy where the vibrant intellectual fabric of Cairo blossomed with scholarly pursuits. This period became a pivotal epoch for the preservation and enhancement of stellar wisdom, carrying forward the luminous tradition of skyward inquiry.
Observational Breakthroughs by Ibn Yunus and Others
In Islamic Egypt’s history, Ibn Yunus is renowned for his contributions to astronomy. He made extensive observations of stellar movements. Using an astrolabe, he recorded over ten thousand entries. These detailed the Sun’s position with notable precision, a hallmark of Islamic astronomy. His work established a foundation for future celestial studies. It also intertwined Cairo’s story with global astronomical history.
Cairo’s Intellectual Dominion and its Astronomical Legacy
During the Islamic era, Cairo emerged as a hub of learning, surpassing Baghdad’s scholarly prominence. In this cradle of Egypt’s Islamic heritage, a group of thinkers and innovators charted the skies. They contributed to astronomy through extensive treatises and self-invented instruments. Cairo’s medieval intellectuals not only advanced Islamic astronomy but also preserved ancient Egyptian traditions. Thus, they perpetuated a legacy of celestial exploration that endures today.
Ancient Egyptian Contributions to Modern Astronomy
As we explore the night sky’s enigma, our ancient Egyptian forebearers’ grasp of celestial dynamics continues to enlighten us. Their pioneering observations are a cornerstone of modern astronomical measurements. Before we recognize the great minds of later civilizations, let us turn our gaze to the Egyptians’ astronomical prowess, keenly depicted through their recognition of variable stars and sophisticated tools like the merkhet. Their intellectual legacy is a beacon that has illuminated paths for centuries, culminating in refined methods for understanding our universe.
Identifying the Variable Stars and Algol’s Cycle
One of the most intriguing aspects of their astronomical expertise is the possibility that Egyptians may have been aware of the variability of stars such as Algol, a phenomenon not observed in Europe until much later. The implication of these observations extends beyond mere curiosity; it signifies a profound understanding of the heavens, as they embraced the concept of variable stars changing brightness over time.
The Egyptians’ relationship with the heavens was multifaceted, encapsulated not only in their mythos but also in the merkhet—a device that revolutionized how they contextualized celestial patterns. By cleaving the night into predictable hours, they conceptualized timekeeping in a manner that speaks to us across millennia.
Calculating Earth’s Circumference: From Egyptian Roots to Eratosthenes
Moreover, their intellectual heritage served as the bedrock for Eratosthenes’ groundbreaking calculation of the Earth’s circumference. Rooted in Egyptian insights and astronomical measurements, his determination offered humanity its first glimpse into the true spherical nature of our planet. Prior explorations of the concept, potentially traceable to Ptolemy III’s reign, etched the idea of a spherical Earth into the consciousness of civilizations to come.
The thoughtful incorporation of a leap year into their calendar system—a leap enacted but never embraced—further underscores the Egyptians’ meticulous attention to the celestial order. The system of a 365-day year embellished with an additional day every four years is a testament to their dedication to accuracy in temporal measurement and harmonization with the cosmos.
- Variable Stars – Pioneering observations that hinted at the existence of variable stars such as Algol.
- Algol’s Cycle – Possible early recognition of Algol’s cycle, demonstrating advanced celestial knowledge.
- Eratosthenes – Utilization of Egyptian concepts leading to Eratosthenes’ measurement of the earth’s circumference.
- Merkhet – Instrumental in nightly observations and timekeeping, revealing the Egyptians’ role in dividing the day into hours.
- Leap Year and Ptolemy III – Introduction of the leap year and the advancement of the civil calendar.
- Spherical Earth – Insights that may have fueled the understanding of a spherical Earth.
Egyptian Astronomical Texts
In ancient Egypt there was a constellation called the Thigh, and the general Egyptologist accepts it as the constellation of the Great Bear also known as the Big Dipper which is also known as Ursa Major. I will write an article dedicated only to Ancient Egyptian Astronomical Texts.
Conclusion: The Stellar Legacy of Ancient Egyptian Astronomy
Reflecting on the celestial tapestry of ancient Egypt, we see its profound impact on Western astronomy. Their contributions, born from observing celestial movements and alignments, were significant. The Egyptians used stars as guides for the afterlife and as beacons of scientific discovery. They helped us understand celestial phenomena like the precession of the equinoxes.
Ancient cultures like Egypt integrated astronomy into their lives and buildings. They aligned their architecture precisely with the stars, showing a deep connection between earth and sky. Our current astronomical advancements owe much to their foundational work, guiding us as modern stargazers.
In sum, the ancients’ aspiration to decipher the heavens continues to resonate with us, fueling our passion to unravel the universe’s secrets. Their observations, engraved in stone and papyrus, remain a testament to human curiosity and the quest for knowledge. As we traverse the path they charted, our understanding of the cosmos expands, ever supported by the historical and celestial beacons set in the ancient skies. We remain indebted to their wisdom, which has sustained its journey across millennia, pouring forth into our modern astronomical ethos.
FAQ
What are the ancient Egyptian decans and how were they used?
Decans were a set of 36 star groups identified by ancient Egyptian astronomers that rose consecutively on the horizon throughout each Earth rotation. They were used as a stellar clock by dividing the night into 10-day periods, each associated with specific decans, and were integral to the Egyptian 365-day yearly calendar and star charts.
Can you describe the stone circles at Nabta Playa?
The stone circles at Nabta Playa, located in the Nubian Desert in southern Egypt, are considered one of the world’s earliest known astronomical devices, dating back to the 5th millennium BCE. These stone structures may have been used for ceremonial or calendrical purposes, aligning with certain astronomical phenomena.
How did the flooding of the Nile relate to ancient Egyptian astronomy?
The annual flooding of the Nile was critical to Egyptian agriculture and was predicted using astronomical observations. The heliacal rising of Sirius (the brightest star) coincided with the Nile flood and marked the New Year in the Egyptian calendar, demonstrating the relationship between celestial events and terrestrial cycles in ancient Egyptian science.
What is the significance of constellations and deities in Egyptian astronomy?
In ancient Egyptian culture, the night sky was populated with constellations that represented their deities, reflecting their religious beliefs and practices. The stars played an integral role in mythology, with gods and goddesses associated with astronomical bodies and events.
How were Egyptian pyramids aligned with the stars?
The ancient Egyptian pyramids, especially the three pyramids on the Giza plateau, were precisely aligned with celestial bodies. For instance, they were oriented to face true north, almost perfectly aligned with the position of the pole star (at the time, Thuban in the constellation Draco) demonstrating the Egyptians’ advanced understanding of astronomy.
How did temple alignments serve an astronomical purpose in ancient Egypt?
Temples in ancient Egypt were often aligned with astronomical phenomena. For example, the temple of Amun-Re at Karnak was aligned such that the sun would shine down the main axis during the solstices. Such alignments were used in the religious life of ancient Egypt, integrating cosmic events into spiritual observances.
How did Greek and Babylonian knowledge influence Egyptian astronomy during the Ptolemaic period?
The Ptolemaic period saw the fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Babylonian astronomy, with Alexandria becoming a seat of astronomical study and research. This period led to significant developments in the field, including the work of Claudius Ptolemy, whose writings combined the astronomical knowledge of these cultures.
What role did Alexandria play in the history of ancient astronomy?
Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great, became a major center of learning and scholarship in the Hellenistic world. The city’s Great Library and the contributions of astronomers such as Ptolemy made it a focal point for astronomical research and education, influencing the history of Western astronomy.
What are ‘Diagonal star tables,’ and what was their purpose?
‘Diagonal star tables’ were ancient Egyptian star charts found in tombs and coffins. They were used for religious purposes and helped the Egyptians keep track of time at night. These tables featured decans across the diagonal lines indicating the passage of ten-day weeks.
How did ancient Egyptians tell time using stars?
Ancient Egyptians used a system of “star clocks,” where certain stars and decans were observed at specific times of night. This system allowed them to divide the night into twelve hours and maintain timekeeping, especially for religious events.
How did the civil calendar affect daily life in ancient Egypt?
The civil calendar, with its 365 days divided into three seasons, regulated the agricultural, administrative, and religious life in ancient Egypt. It was aligned with the natural cycle of the Nile flooding, which was crucial for farming and food supply.
What contributions did the Islamic Era make to Egyptian astronomy?
During the Islamic Era, scholars like Ibn Yunus made significant contributions to astronomy, such as detailed observations of the sun and using instruments like the astrolabe. Cairo became a center of intellectual activity, preserving and expanding on the astronomical knowledge of ancient Egyptian origins.
How did ancient Egyptian astronomers contribute to our understanding of the Earth’s circumference?
Ancient Egyptian astronomers’ work laid the foundation for later scholars like Eratosthenes, who accurately measured the Earth’s circumference in the 3rd century BCE. Their observations and methods, including using simple tools like the merkhet, enabled them to make significant astronomical measurements.
Thank you for your work on the names of the 36 dekans. I honestly think that they are important to our changing world today. William Gaspar
Good research. I am focused on the megalith builders, and I am also finding that it was the sky which provided their understanding of existence, of the cycles of life, death and rebirth. I am sure there was a contact between the builders of the pyramids and those of Stonehenge, and the key is in the sky.
We have researched the Eypt/astronomy connection for many years. The research is available at http://sites.google.com/site/edgarcayceandthehallofrecords/