Question

Почему жрецы были богаты и могущественны? Древний Египет

Answer 1

Поскольку в древнем египте жрецов считали посланниками богов черех которых боги общаются с людьми то жрецам тоже приносили жертвования что бы они задобрили богов.

Answer 2

Why were priests wealthy and powerful in ancient Egypt?

In ancient Egypt, priests held significant wealth and power within society. There were several reasons for this:

1. Religious Authority and Influence: Priests in ancient Egypt were considered the intermediaries between the gods and the people. They played a crucial role in religious rituals, ceremonies, and offerings. Their close connection to the divine gave them immense authority and influence over the population.

2. Control of Temples and Offerings: Temples were the centers of religious life in ancient Egypt. They were not only places of worship but also economic powerhouses. Temples owned vast amounts of land, agricultural estates, and livestock. They received offerings from the people, including food, precious metals, and other valuable goods. These offerings were used to sustain the temple and its priests, contributing to their wealth and power.

3. Economic Activities: Priests were involved in various economic activities that further contributed to their wealth. They managed the temple estates, which included agricultural lands and industries such as brewing and textile production. They also acted as bankers, lending money and managing financial transactions. These economic activities generated significant income for the priests and allowed them to accumulate wealth.

4. Political Influence: Priests in ancient Egypt held considerable political influence. They often served as advisors to the pharaoh and held high-ranking positions in the government. Their close association with the ruling elite allowed them to shape policies and decisions, further enhancing their power and wealth.

5. Education and Knowledge: Priests in ancient Egypt were highly educated and possessed specialized knowledge in various fields, including astronomy, medicine, and law. Their expertise made them valuable assets to the society, and they were often consulted for their wisdom and guidance. This intellectual superiority added to their prestige and influence.

It is important to note that while priests enjoyed wealth and power, not all priests were equally wealthy or influential. The hierarchy within the priesthood determined the level of wealth and authority a priest possessed. High-ranking priests, such as the high priest of a temple or the chief priest of a deity, held the most significant positions and enjoyed the greatest privileges.

Overall, the combination of religious authority, control of temples and offerings, economic activities, political influence, and specialized knowledge contributed to the wealth and power of priests in ancient Egypt.