Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple

Temple Facade 

The Karnak Temple was dedicated to the gods Amon-Re, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu, the moon god. It was believed that if building stopped, the temple would "die," so construction continued for over 2,000 years. The public was restricted to the outer courtyard, while only priests and the pharaoh were allowed access. 

Hypostyle Hall

Started by Seti I and completed by Ramses II, the 134-column Hypostyle Hall featured central columns taller than the others, allowing light to filter through the windows. This grand hall is comparable in style to Solomon's "House of the Forest of Lebanon" mentioned in the Bible (1 Kings 7).

Thutmose's Canaanite City List

Thutmose III’s captured Canaanite princes with their hands tied and names on their shields are reflected in his city lists. These lists illustrate the rulers of cities he conquered, particularly after the fall of Megiddo, which was seen as the equivalent of capturing a thousand cities. Egypt's empire reached its largest extent ever, stretching from the Euphrates to the Fourth Cataract at Thutmose's death.

Ramses' Treaty

Ramses II’s treaty with the Hittites, one of the most significant historical agreements, was originally written on silver tablets in Heliopolis and Hattusus. A copy was found on the wall of Karnak Temple. After years of conflict, Ramses II and the Hittite ruler agreed to divide Syria and Canaan between them. The wall also depicts Merneptah’s battles in Canaan, including those against Ashkelon and Israel.

Shishak's City List

Pharaoh Shishak (945–924 BC) took treasures from Jerusalem’s temple during his invasion of Israel and Judah in 925 BC. Details of 150 cities, many of which are now lost, are provided in Shishak’s city list. Notable cities include Taanach, Beth-Shean, Rehob, Mahanaim, Gibeon, Beth-Horon, Megiddo, and Arad, as described from Judah’s perspective in the Bible (2 Chronicles 12).

Sacred Lake

Karnak Temple's sacred lake, the largest among Egyptian temples, was used daily by priests for purification and for the transportation of gods' images during festivals. Measuring 425 by 255 feet (130 x 77 meters), the lake was surrounded by storerooms and the homes of priests.