Egyptian Technology > Egyptian Science

Egyptian Science

Background

Ancient Egyptian science encompassed a wide range of disciplines, including astronomy, mathematics, medicine, engineering, and natural philosophy. Here are key aspects of Egyptian science:

Astronomy

• Celestial Observations: Egyptians were skilled astronomers who observed and recorded the movements of celestial bodies, including stars, planets, and constellations. They developed calendars based on astronomical events such as the heliacal rising of Sirius and the cycles of the moon.
• Astronomical Alignments: Egyptian temples and pyramids were often aligned with astronomical phenomena, suggesting a sophisticated understanding of celestial mechanics and the relationship between the cosmos and the built environment.

Mathematics

• Practical Mathematics: Egyptians developed practical mathematical techniques for surveying land, measuring distances, and calculating areas and volumes. They used fractions, unit fractions, and geometric principles in their calculations.
• Hieratic Numerals: Egyptians devised a system of hieratic numerals for writing numbers, using symbols to represent units, tens, hundreds, and thousands. Hieratic numerals were widely used in administrative documents, accounting records, and architectural plans.

Medicine

• Medical Knowledge: Egyptian physicians had a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, pathology, and pharmacology. They treated a wide range of medical conditions using herbal remedies, surgical procedures, and magical incantations.
• Papyri: Medical knowledge was documented in medical papyri such as the Edwin Smith Papyrus and the Ebers Papyrus, which contain detailed descriptions of diseases, symptoms, and treatments.

Engineering

• Architectural Achievements: Egyptians were renowned for their architectural prowess, building monumental structures such as the pyramids, temples, and tombs with precision and ingenuity. They employed advanced techniques in quarrying, masonry, and construction.
• Irrigation Systems: Egyptians developed sophisticated irrigation systems to control the flow of water from the Nile River and distribute it to agricultural land. They built canals, reservoirs, and irrigation channels to maximize crop yields and support a thriving agricultural economy.

Natural Philosophy

• Cosmology and Cosmogony: Egyptians had elaborate cosmological and cosmogonical beliefs about the origin and structure of the universe. They worshipped deities associated with natural elements and celestial bodies, such as the sun god Ra and the sky goddess Nut.
• Symbolism and Allegory: Egyptian mythology and religious texts contain rich symbolism and allegory related to the natural world, embodying philosophical concepts such as balance, harmony, and cyclical renewal.

Legacy and Influence

• Cultural Heritage: Egyptian scientific achievements left a lasting legacy that influenced later civilizations in the Near East, Mediterranean region, and beyond. Greek and Roman scholars studied Egyptian texts and adopted Egyptian mathematical and medical knowledge.
• Continued Exploration: Modern scholars continue to study and explore Egyptian science through archaeological excavations, textual analysis, and scientific research. The legacy of ancient Egyptian science continues to inspire curiosity and admiration for its achievements in understanding the natural world.

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources