Egypt has been ever evolving, a country of change throughout
the years. Due to its geographic location, oral history, religion, and current
affairs, Egypt has had a strong impact on the world throughout history. Location
is a blessing, because Trade has allowed Egyptians to develop relations with
other countries, while also seeking out valuable goods. Religion has created
tension between people groups, while expanding belief systems throughout the
continent. Each of these illustrations have given rise to a powerful nation
that today still stands in Africa.
GEOGRAPHY and resources
Egypt is in the upper Northeast corner of Africa, directly
connected to many Middle Eastern countries. This nation is one of the largest
countries in the world, containing more than 92 million people in just over
386,000 square miles.[1]
Egypt contains lots of natural resources that draw this vast group of people
into the country. The Nile River is the main source of clean water for the
nation, providing life for cultivated land of sugar cane, grains, legumes, and
vegetables.[2]
Such crops are easily traded with other countries, and even transported up and
down the River itself. Transportation by boat along the river allows for much
trade between Mediterranean countries and the inner parts of Egypt. Farmers of
ancient times would also rely on the flood seasons of the River. Water would
overflow into the flood plains providing much needed water to people, animals,
and plants.[3] The
Sahara Desert on the other hand lacks an abundance of water, supporting only
the infrequent oasis. Hot, dry, and arid are the common descriptors of this
area making it very hard to grow any crops to feed the few desert inhabitants. Despite the hot climate, lack of water, sandy
deserts, Egypt continues to be a nation that people can freely flock into. The
usefulness of the Nile is one of the major resources that keeps people coming
back to Egypt throughout the years.
UNWRITTEN HISTORY
 |
| Egyptian Muslim mosque lamp (Sourced: http://www.asergeev.com/pictures/archives/compress/2012/1003/24.htm) |
Ancient Egyptians passed down their history in three
distinct ways. Oral stories, sculptures, and religious art all contributed to
the history of Egypt we know today. Instead of using hieroglyphics, ancient
people would memorize different stories as a way to express their emotions,
wisdom, symbols, and thoughts. This could easily be passed down from generation
to generation simply by speaking.[4]
Another way to see history of Egypt through non-written sources is in the
sculptures artists would frequently make. Figurines would represent gods,
Kings, Pharaohs, and the afterlife. This relays to us that Pharaohs were of
high importance, and the afterlife was taken seriously in Egypt. Smaller idols
show us who the Ancient Egyptians worshiped, and ceremonies that were
participated in. Lastly, in history both the Coptic and Islamic churches of
Egypt have distinct pieces of art within their temples and mosques that display
history without words. Within Islam, artists were hired to create geometric
designs, frequently used on ritualistic basins within a temple. Shape,
division, and lines are commonly seen when Muslims performed specific rituals
each day. Coptic Christians also used art as a way to display their beliefs,
values, and joys of life. Garments would be colorfully decorated with images
that would tell stories. People, bright colors, and flora are all seen on
pieces of fabric, displaying different topics of this early Egyptian religion.[5]
RELIGION IN EGYPT
 |
| A Coptic Christian church between Cairo and Alexandria. (Sourced: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Coptic_Christian_Church_outside.JPG) |
There have been many different religious groups within Egypt
throughout the years. Religion formed the center of Egyptian society,
consisting of worship, rituals, prayer, and sacrifices. Polytheistic beliefs
were common in that Egyptians would worship multiple gods at one time. Examples
such as Re the sun-god, Seth the storm-god, Nut the sky-goddess, and Geb the
earth-god were all a part of the daily life of ancient people.[6]
Currently there is a vast difference in religious practices as compared to
ancient beliefs. Today, Islam accounts for over 94% of the citizens in Egypt, reigning
over much of the land.[7]
There are many mosques which allow followers to worship and even pray 5 times a
day in an act of obedience to the Quran. Coptic Christianity makes up the other
6% of religion in this Northeast African country. This traditional orthodox
faith follows the teachings of St. Mark who originally brought the religion to
north Egypt. Members of this church believe in an all-powerful God who is
divine over all the earth.[8]
Such stark differences between these religions have led to much tension amongst
the people groups. Muslims believe that any religious practices not following
Islamic law is liable of being prosecuted legally.[9]
Coptic Christians in turn have little tolerance, creating an apprehensive
relationship with those of Islamic faith.
Contacts and Mission work
 |
| Suleiman the 1st (Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:EmperorSuleiman.jpg) |
Asia and Europe were the first two countries to make major
impacts on the Egyptian people. Through trade, ancient Egyptians sought out
relationships with many Western Asian countries, looking for a stone called the
lapis lazuli. This precious stone was a bright blue color, used in many objects
such as mosaics, vases, jewelry, and ornamental objects.[10]
Lapis lazuli was for the wealthy, often given to royalty such as Queen
Hetepheres, the treasure of Tod, and in the tomb of Tanis. Egyptian historical
writings also mention this stone as coming from West Asia, obtained by trade
alone.[11]
The Ottoman Empire, on the other hand, was looking more for Dominion and rule
rather than trade. In 1517 Turkish ruler Suleiman the 1st began to
conquer bits and pieces of Egyptian land out of Mameluke hands.[12]
This new empire stretched from the Persian Gulf and Hungary, to Egypt and the
Caucasus. The Ottoman foothold in Egypt brought in a new culture and government
that the Egyptian people were not used to yet.
Sharing your faith and beliefs is important in any religion.
Historically, Christians have continued to do a great job of spreading the
Bible throughout the world to different nations and tribes. Since Biblical
times, there have been missionaries spreading the gospel no matter what the
cost. St. Mark was one of the first official mission workers, coming to Egypt
in the first century A.D. Mark’s orthodox teachings and good news of the gospel
eventually founded the Coptic Christian church, showing his impact on the world
today.[13]
Recently there has been an influx of Christian missionaries to Egypt. The
Christian Aid Mission is working directly with Egyptian people to bring a hope
and future to this country. By helping the poor, building relationships with
Muslims, interpreting the bible, and handing out tracts, the Christian Aid
Mission is eager to make a lasting impact for Christ and His Kingdom.[14]
National identity
 |
| Egyptian rule under Muhammad Ali. (Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Egypt_under_Muhammad_Ali_map_de.png) |
Egypt has seen various power hungry countries try and take
over African lands. Muhammad Ali was the main conqueror of Egypt during the
period of 1805-1914. His power changed the boarders of Egypt, brought in
Islamic religion, and culture. Ali was sent by the Ottoman Empire to rid Egypt
of its French forces. With this Muhammad eliminated the traditional society,
ended rebellion against his command, and restricted activity of the native
merchant peoples.[15]
However, his power was not awful in all aspects as it helped build a better
infrastructure for the country as a whole. Through irrigation systems, post
offices, railroad systems, schools, and new canals, Ali was able to strengthen
Egypt from within.[16]
Expansion was also a big concern for Muhammad Ali. He eventually was able to
increase his holdings into Syria, Adana, and Nizip.
Conclusion
Although Egypt has been through some rough times, its
specific location, religion, history, and trade have allowed this country to
become the strong nation we see today. Through different conquests, Egypt has
been traded in the hands of many rulers, has gained many new cultural belief
systems, and has broadened its boarders greatly. This is what makes Egypt have
such an impact on the world; its people has seen diversity and knows the
benefits that comes from it.
Footnotes
[1] "Egypt Population
(LIVE)." Egypt Population (2016). Accessed March 23, 2016. http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/egypt-population/.
[2]"Egypt."
Egypt. Accessed March 25, 2016. http://www.fao.org/docrep/v9978e/v9978e0e.htm.
[3] Baines, John. "The Story of the
Nile." BBC History. February 17, 2011. Accessed May 16, 2016. http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/egyptians/nile_01.shtml.
[4]Parkinson, R. B., trans. The Tale of Sinuhe and Other
Egyptian Poems. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997.
[5]
Cole, Herbert M., Robin Poynor, and Monica Blackmun Visona. A History of Art in
Africa. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Hall, 2008.
[7]
TechBooks, The Middle East
(Washington DC: CQ Press, 2005), 222.
[8]
The Coptic Network, “The Christian Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt”, (Jan
2006), accessed May 16, 2016. http://www.coptic.net/EncyclopediaCoptica/
[9] “Egypt-
Religions”, Nations Encyclopedia, (2016), accessed May 16, 2016, http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Africa/Egypt-RELIGIONS.html.
[10]
[11]
[12]
"Ottoman Empire." - New World Encyclopedia. March 5, 2015. Accessed May 16, 2016. http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Ottoman_Empire.
[14] Christian Aid Mission Staff. "Christian Aid Mission :
Egyptian Missionaries Hopeful." Christian Aid Mission : Egyptian
Missionaries Hopeful. March 6, 2011. Accessed May 16, 2016.
http://www.christianaid.org/News/2011/mir20110306.aspx.
[15]
[16]
------------------------------------------
Bibliography
"Egypt
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"Lapis Lazuli in the Ancient
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"Muhammad Ali Dynasty." -
New World Encyclopedia. December 5, 2014. Accessed May 16, 2016.
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"Ottoman
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http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Ottoman_Empire.
TechBooks, The Middle East (Washington DC: CQ
Press, 2005), 222.
Baines, John. "The Story of the
Nile." BBC History. February 17, 2011. Accessed May 16, 2016. http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/egyptians/nile_01.shtml.
Christian Aid Mission Staff.
"Christian Aid Mission : Egyptian Missionaries Hopeful." Christian
Aid Mission : Egyptian Missionaries Hopeful. March 6, 2011. Accessed May 16,
2016. http://www.christianaid.org/News/2011/mir20110306.aspx.
Cole,
Herbert M., Robin Poynor, and Monica Blackmun Visona. A History of Art in
Africa. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Hall, 2008.
Parkinson, R. B., trans. The Tale
of Sinuhe and Other Egyptian Poems. New York: Oxford University Press,
1997.
Perry, Glenn E. The
History of Egypt. 2nd ed. Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO, LLC, 2016.
Rivlin, Helen Anne B. "Muhammad
'Ali." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. 2016. Accessed May 16, 2016.
http://www.britannica.com/biography/Muhammad-Ali-pasha-and-viceroy-of-Egypt.
The
Coptic Network, “The Christian Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt”, (Jan 2006),
accessed May 16, 2016,http://www.coptic.net/EncyclopediaCoptica/
Thomas,
Angela P. Egyptian Gods and Myths. Buckinghamshire:
Shire Publications, 1986. Pg. 38-40
Image Bibliography
Coptic
Christian Church Outside. October 13, 2007. St. Bishoy Monastery, Cairo/Alexandria.
May 16, 2016. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Coptic_Christian_Church_outside.JPG
Egyptian Muslim Mosque Lamp. January 21, 2012. Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar.
May 16, 2016. http://www.asergeev.com/pictures/archives/compress/2012/1003/24.htm
Gaba, Eric. Map of Egypt under Muhammad Ali in German.
October 28, 2011. May 16, 2016. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Egypt_under_Muhammad_Ali_map_de.png
Titian. Emperor Suleiman. 1530. Venice. May 16,
2016. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:EmperorSuleiman.jpg
Video Bibliography
Richardson, Alynn. "Ancient Egypt". YouTube video, 5:48.
Posted [May 16, 2016]. https://youtu.be/x8jgQduqcA0
Smith, Steven. “Journey down the Nile
River”. YouTube video, 4:53. Posted [September, 2013]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjdOlv82kPE
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