Addendum to 'Boatman's fillet'
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Addendum to 'Boatman's fillet'
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Original source:
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Ebba E. Kerrn
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Addendum to 'Boatman's fillet'
Year: 1957 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5311
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction:
The addendum by Ebba E. Kerrn discusses the relationship between the terms "Gürtel" and "mdh," arguing that both originate from the same root and are related to the concept of reaching manhood, supported by evidence from ancient representations that show boys typically do not wear both a sidelock and a fillet.
Conclusion:
Kerrn concludes that the word "mdh" likely refers to a specific type of fillet distinct from known variations associated with boatmen, suggesting that it was soft and adorned with streamers, thereby encouraging further exploration into the ritualistic or cultural significance of these adornments, especially in contexts involving games or sham boat fights.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of the word 'mdh' in Egyptian culture?
The word 'mdh' is linked to manhood and represents a type of fillet. It has been identified as distinct from the boatman's fillet and likely denotes a simpler, softer variety adorned with streamers.
What connection exists between fillets and games in ancient Egypt?
Fresh flower fillets are associated with scant clothing and ritualistic games, like sham boat fights and knife-throwing. These depictions often show boys or young men engaging in activities that may have a ritual or religious significance.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Addendum to 'Boatman's fillet'�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Flower:
The term 'Flower' refers to the fresh flowers used in the context of fillets worn by men during sham boat fights. These flower fillets complemented the scant clothing and were part of a symbolic representation, linking them to rituals or celebrations, particularly among young men.
2) Cloth:
'Cloth' pertains to the limited clothing worn by participants in the depicted activities, specifically the loincloths. The scant clothing emphasizes the physicality and ritualistic nature of the scenes, suggesting cultural significance during certain rites of passage or festive occasions among youths.
3) Game:
'Game' indicates the playful activities engaged in by the young boys or men, such as knife or stick-throwing. These games likely served as rites of passage or initiation, representing a transition to manhood, informed by the cultural practices of the ancient Egyptian society.
4) Fight:
'Fight' refers to the sham boat fights depicted in the text. These simulated battles were likely ritualistic and served to signify skills or maturity essential for young men, reinforcing their status and identity within society, and connecting them to community traditions.
5) Boat:
'Boat' denotes the vessels used in the ritualistic boat fights referenced in the text. Boats were significant in ancient Egyptian culture, often symbolizing journey and passage, and their representation in these fights suggests deeper metaphorical meanings related to life and manhood.
6) Nature:
'Nature' in this context may refer to the intrinsic qualities or significance of the games and fights. The activities are influenced by societal norms and the transition from childhood to adulthood, suggesting an exploration of human experiences linked to growing up.
7) Sam (Sham):
'Sham' indicates the non-serious or simulated nature of the boat fights and games. This term suggests that while the activities mimic actual conflict, they are performed in a playful context that reflects cultural values and societal practices surrounding youth and maturity.
8) Young men (Young man):
'Young men' refers to the boys on the verge of adulthood engaged in activities like the knife-throwing game and sham fights. Their portrayal in art reflects both a cultural rite of passage and the importance of physical prowess and social roles in ancient Egyptian society.
9) Possession:
'Possession' suggests the lack of available texts clarifying the specific meanings of the games and rituals. This absence highlights a gap in our understanding of cultural practices and beliefs, indicating that further archaeological and textual evidence is needed to draw definitive conclusions.
10) Painting:
'Painting' relates to the depictions in tombs and artifacts that illustrate the cultural practices of the ancient Egyptians. These visuals serve as crucial sources for understanding the rituals, societal norms, and the significance of rites of passage among youths.
11) Necklace:
'Necklace' references the adornments worn by participants during sham fights, representing status and identity. Such adornments highlight the importance of decoration in rituals and cultural ceremonies, further emphasizing the transition to maturity and participation in adult social activities.
12) Grammar:
'Grammar' in this context pertains to the linguistic analysis of the terms used in Egyptian texts, particularly the words related to fillets. Understanding the grammar can illuminate the connections and meanings behind these cultural symbols, guiding interpretations of ancient practices and beliefs.
13) Dynasty:
'Dynasty' signifies the historical segments of ancient Egyptian civilization referenced in the text. The mention of the VIth dynasty offers a timeframe within which these cultural practices were observed and allows for an understanding of the evolution of societal norms regarding youth and rituals.
14) Doubt:
'Doubt' refers to the uncertainty surrounding the exact meanings and purposes of the sham fights and games, highlighting gaps in our archaeological and textual understanding. This suggests a need for further research to clarify the cultural significance and intentions behind such activities.
15) Chest (Chesht):
'Chest' refers to the crossbands worn by some of the participants, symbolizing a degree of status and maturity. This detail contributes to the overall portrayal of youth transitioning to adulthood, emphasizing the physical markers of identity in the context of ancient rituals.