People > Smendes

Smendes

Background

Smendes, also known by his Egyptian name Nesubanebdjed or Hedjkheperre Setepenre, was the founder of the 21st Dynasty of ancient Egypt. He ruled from approximately 1077 to 1052 BCE, during a period known as the Third Intermediate Period. This era was marked by political fragmentation and the division of power between the north and south of Egypt. Smendes established his capital at Tanis in the Nile Delta and played a crucial role in maintaining stability during a time of transition. Here is an overview of Smendes and his reign:

Background

1. Third Intermediate Period:

   • The Third Intermediate Period (circa 1070–664 BCE) followed the collapse of the New Kingdom and was characterized by political fragmentation and regional division.
   • Power was divided between the pharaohs in the north and the high priests of Amun in Thebes in the south.

2. Family and Lineage:

   • Smendes' origins are somewhat unclear, but he is believed to have been a high-ranking official or military leader. His name, Nesubanebdjed, means "He of the Ram, Lord of Mendes," indicating a possible connection to the city of Mendes.
   • He was married to Tentamun, who may have been a daughter of Ramses XI, the last pharaoh of the 20th Dynasty, which helped legitimize his claim to the throne.

Reign of Smendes

1. Accession to the Throne:

   • Smendes ascended to power around 1077 BCE, following the death of Ramses XI. He established himself as pharaoh and ruled from Tanis, a city in the eastern Nile Delta.
   • His reign marked the beginning of the 21st Dynasty and the division of power between Tanis in the north and Thebes in the south.

2. Political and Administrative Actions:

   • Smendes focused on consolidating his rule in the north while maintaining a degree of cooperation with the powerful priesthood of Amun in Thebes. This cooperation was essential for maintaining stability and control over the fragmented country.
   • He appointed governors and officials to manage different regions, ensuring the effective administration of the state. His ability to navigate the complex political landscape helped stabilize the northern kingdom.

3. Military and Foreign Policy:

   • There is limited evidence of military campaigns or significant foreign policy actions during Smendes' reign. His focus appeared to be on internal consolidation and maintaining stability within Egypt.
   • The period saw a decline in Egypt's influence over its traditional territories in the Near East and Nubia.

Relationship with Thebes

1. High Priests of Amun:

   • During Smendes' reign, the high priests of Amun in Thebes held considerable power and effectively governed southern Egypt. This division of power created a dual leadership system, with Smendes ruling the north and the priests controlling the south.
   • The high priesthood, led by Herihor and later by Pinedjem I, wielded significant religious and political influence. Smendes maintained a cooperative relationship with the Theban priesthood to ensure stability.

2. Religious and Cultural Policies:

   • Smendes continued to support traditional religious practices and the cult of Amun. He contributed to temple constructions and restorations, particularly in the north.
   • His reign saw the continuation of cultural and religious traditions from the New Kingdom, albeit with a reduced emphasis on monumental construction compared to earlier periods.

Legacy and Death

1. Death and Succession:

   • Smendes died around 1052 BCE. He was succeeded by his son or possibly his son-in-law, Psusennes I, who continued to rule from Tanis and maintained the cooperative relationship with Thebes.
   • His death did not significantly alter the political landscape, as the division of power between Tanis and Thebes persisted.

2. Historical Significance:

   • Smendes' reign is significant for his role in stabilizing northern Egypt during a period of political fragmentation. His ability to cooperate with the powerful Theban priesthood helped maintain a degree of unity and stability.
   • He laid the foundations for the 21st Dynasty, which continued to rule Egypt for several decades, navigating the challenges of the Third Intermediate Period.

3. Archaeological Evidence:

   • Archaeological evidence from Smendes' reign includes inscriptions, artifacts, and temple remains that provide insights into his rule and the political dynamics of the time.
   • His burial site has not been definitively identified, but it is believed he may have been buried in Tanis, the capital he established.

Summary

Smendes, who ruled from approximately 1077 to 1052 BCE, was the founder of the 21st Dynasty of ancient Egypt. His reign during the Third Intermediate Period was marked by political fragmentation and the division of power between Tanis in the north and Thebes in the south. Smendes effectively consolidated his rule in the north and maintained a cooperative relationship with the powerful high priests of Amun in Thebes. His focus on internal stability and administrative efficiency helped navigate the challenges of his time, laying the foundations for the continued rule of the 21st Dynasty.