| Atum | |
|---|---|
 Atum on right side facing Apep with a spear, tomb of Ramesses I, 19th Dynasty (c. 1292–1290 BC) | |
|
Real Name |
Atem, Tem, or Temu |
|
First Appearance |
Egyptian Mythology |
|
Created by |
Unknown |
Origin[]
Atum is the primordial creator god in Egyptian mythology — the first being who created himself from the chaotic waters of Nun (Nu). He is the father of Shu (air) and Tefnut (moisture), who in turn became the ancestors of all other Egyptian deities.
In the Heliopolitan Cosmogony, Atum arose on the benben mound, symbolizing the emergence of order from chaos. He created Shu and Tefnut through various mythic acts—by spitting, using his hand (considered a feminine aspect), or uniting with his shadow—symbolizing self-generation and duality.
Atum represents the setting sun, complementing Khepri (the rising sun) and Ra (the midday sun). Together, they form the cycle of creation, life, and renewal. He was especially worshiped during the Old Kingdom, when he was believed to lift the souls of dead kings to the heavens.
In myth, Atum’s tears of joy upon reuniting with his lost children created humankind. He is both a creator and destroyer, destined to return all existence to the primordial waters at the end of time, when only he and Osiris would remain as serpents.
Public Domain Appearances[]
All published appearances of Atum from before January 1, 1930 are public domain in the US.