Apophis (also known as Apep) is the Great Serpent, enemy of the sun god Ra, in ancient Egyptian religion. The sun was Ra's great barge which sailed through the sky from dawn to dusk and then descended into the underworld. As it sailed through the darkness, it was attacked by Apophis who sought to kill Ra and prevent sunrise.
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Definition
Timeline
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2040 BCE - 1782 BCEApophis first mentioned by name in ancient Egyptian texts.
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c. 1570 BCE - 1069 BCEThe text known as The Overthrowing of Apophis is written during the Middle Kingdom of Egypt.
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525 BCE - 332 BCERituals dedicated to defense against Apophis become more widespread during the Late Period of Ancient Egypt.
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c. 300 CEBelief in Apophis declines with the rise of Christianity. Rituals are abandoned.
