About
The Beautiful Festival of Opet was held at Thebes during the Nile flood. The images of Amun, his consort Mut and their son Khonsu were carried in sacred barques from Karnak to Luxor temple, where the king's divine power was renewed. Crowds lined the route and received food and drink, and the festival reliefs at Luxor show music, dancing and acrobats.
Customs
- Processions carrying the gods' images in sacred boats
- Music, singing and dancing along the route
- Sharing bread, beer and food among the crowds
- Consulting the oracle of the god as the barque passed
- Celebrating the renewal of divine and royal power
Food
- Bread and cakes
- Beer or barley water
- Roast meats or vegetables
- Fruit and dates
A simple ritual
- Carry a small image or symbol of a god you honour from one room of your home to another, or around your garden.
- Play music as you go, or sing.
- Set it in its new place and light a candle safely beside it.
- Ask for renewal of your own strength and purpose.
- Share food with others and put out the candle.
Never leave candles or fires unattended, and keep them away from pets and children.