HIEROGLYPHICS Meaning and
Definition
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Hieroglyphics is a term referring to a system of writing used in ancient Egypt. The word itself is derived from the Greek words "hieros," meaning "sacred" or "divine," and "glypho," meaning "carve." Hieroglyphics were a complex and pictorial form of writing consisting of a combination of ideograms, phonetic signs, and determinatives.
In ancient Egypt, hieroglyphics were primarily used for inscriptions on temple walls, tombs, and monuments. They were considered not only a means of communication but also an art form. Hieroglyphics utilized a wide range of symbols, each representing a concept, object, or sound. Some of the symbols were straightforward and easily understood, while others were more abstract, requiring knowledge of the language and the culture.
Deciphering hieroglyphics was a significant challenge for scholars until the discovery of the Rosetta Stone in 1799. The Rosetta Stone provided a crucial breakthrough in understanding the ancient Egyptian language, as it contained a decree inscribed in three scripts: hieroglyphics, Demotic (a simplified script), and Greek. This enabled scholars to compare the known Greek text with the unknown hieroglyphic text, facilitating the translation of the hieroglyphics.
Today, hieroglyphics are studied and admired for their beauty and historical significance. They provide valuable insights into the civilization, culture, and everyday life of ancient Egyptians. The decipherment of hieroglyphics has unlocked a wealth of knowledge about one of the oldest recorded languages in the world, enabling a deeper understanding of Egypt's rich history.
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A sacred character or symbol; the sculpture or picture-writing of anc. Egypt-generally used in the.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of HIEROGLYPHICS
The word "hieroglyphics" comes from the Greek words "hieros" meaning "sacred" and "glyphein" meaning "to carve". The term was originally used by the ancient Greek writer Herodotus to refer to the ancient Egyptian writing system, which involved pictorial symbols carved or inscribed on various surfaces such as stone, clay, or papyrus. The word was later adopted into English to describe this system of writing.
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