Celebrate the Feast of Thoth August 6

Updated July 16, 2024

Thoth, an ancient Egyptian deity, is a multifaceted god associated with wisdom, writing, science, and magic. Often depicted as a man with the head of an ibis or as a baboon, Thoth is believed to be the scribe of the gods and the inventor of hieroglyphics. He played a crucial role in maintaining the universe, being the mediator in disputes among gods, and was the record-keeper of the cosmos

Thoth is full of knowledge and wisdom. His Egyptian name was Djehuty, which means “He who is like the Ibis.”

In this article, we will learn all about Thoth - his myths and magic and discuss how you can celebrate and honor him!

Who Was the God Thoth?

Thoth is the Ancient Egyptian God of the moon, writing, magic, measurement, and time. He governs science and engineering.

Thoth is most well known for being an extremely powerful magician who had the ability to transform into many animals including an ibis.

being one of the most important Egyptian gods, he was known as a mediator between good and evil, making him very powerful. He is considered the scribe for the Gods and humans.

Thoth’s symbol was the Ibis bird with an upside-down moon on its head. He is also closely associated with the baboon another lunar animal.

Thoth, ancient Egyptian god often depicted as an ibis-headed man. Based on New Kingdom tomb paintings. By Artist Jeff Dahl.

Thoth’s Attributes

Thoth, in ancient Egyptian depictions, is often portrayed with the head of an ibis, a bird associated with wisdom and the moon. His ibis-headed form typically shows him with a slender, curved beak, and a human body dressed in a kilt.

In his baboon form, he appears as a full baboon, sometimes seated or standing.

Thoth is frequently shown holding specific items that symbolize his roles and attributes:

1. Scribes' Palette and Reed Pen: These are symbols of his role as the divine scribe, the inventor of writing, and the patron of scribes. The palette often contains ink and a reed pen, emphasizing his connection to recording and wisdom.

2. Ankh: The ankh is a symbol of life and immortality, reflecting Thoth's association with the preservation and continuity of the cosmos and human life.

3. Was Scepter: This staff symbolizes power and dominion, indicating Thoth's authority and his role in maintaining order in the universe.

4. Book of Wisdom (Scrolls): Sometimes he is depicted with scrolls or a book, signifying his vast knowledge and the written word, which he is said to have invented.

Thoth’s Roles in Science and Alchemy

Thoth's involvement in science in ancient Egyptian mythology is profound. He was considered the god of wisdom, writing, and knowledge, and his influence extended to various scientific domains. Here are key aspects of Thoth's role in science:

1. Astronomy and Timekeeping: Thoth is associated with the moon and is responsible for measuring its cycles, which were crucial for creating the Egyptian calendar. His calculations helped determine the lunar calendar, and by extension, the agricultural and religious calendars that structured Ancient Egyptian society.

2. Mathematics: As the god of wisdom, Thoth is believed to possess extensive knowledge of mathematics. This includes geometry, which was essential for constructing the monumental architecture of ancient Egypt, such as pyramids and temples. His mathematical insights were also critical for land measurement and agricultural planning.

3. Medicine: Thoth is linked to the practice of medicine and healing. Ancient Egyptians believed that he gave humans knowledge of the healing arts, and he was often invoked in medical texts and rituals. His wisdom encompasses the understanding of herbs, surgery, and various medical practices.

4. Alchemy and Magic: Thoth is considered a master of alchemy and the magical arts. Alchemy, in the context of ancient Egypt, was a precursor to chemistry, involving the transformation of substances and the pursuit of immortality. Thoth's knowledge of magical formulas and incantations is intertwined with early scientific experimentation.

5. Engineering and Architecture: Thoth's influence extended to engineering and architecture. His wisdom was invoked in the design and construction of complex structures, including the alignment of buildings with astronomical events. His contributions to engineering principles ensured the stability and longevity of these constructions.

   My sons were (are) Lego fanatics! check out this great Lego building set - LEGO Architecture Great Pyramid of Giza Set on Amazon.

Myths Related to Thoth

The myth of Thoth adding more days to the calendar is a fascinating story that highlights his cleverness and his role in maintaining cosmic order. This myth is tied to the creation and structure of the Egyptian calendar. Here’s how the story goes:

The ancient Egyptian calendar originally had 360 days, divided into 12 months of 30 days each. However, this calendar did not align perfectly with the solar year, which is approximately 365.25 days long. This discrepancy needed to be addressed to ensure that the agricultural and religious cycles matched the natural cycles.

Nut, the sky goddess, was married to Geb, the earth god. However, Ra (the sun god) decreed that Nut should not give birth to her children on any day of the year. This was a problem because Nut was pregnant with the deities Osiris, Set, Isis, and Nephthys.

To help Nut, Thoth, known for his wisdom and cleverness, devised a plan. He approached Khonsu, the moon god, and challenged him to a game of senet (a popular board game in ancient Egypt). The stakes were high: Thoth wagered some of Khonsu's moonlight in exchange for the winnings. Being a master of strategy and games, Thoth won the game and acquired enough moonlight to create five extra days.

These extra five days were added to the 360-day calendar, resulting in a total of 365 days. These five days, known as the "epagomenal days" or "the days upon the year," were considered outside the regular calendar and were often regarded as unlucky or dangerous days. However, they allowed Nut to give birth to her children:

1. Osiris on the first day.

2. Horus the Elder on the second day (some myths don’t include Horus )

3. Set on the third day.

4. Isis on the fourth day.

5. Nephthys on the fifth day.

This myth not only explains the addition of the five extra days to the Egyptian calendar but also underscores Thoth's ingenuity and his role in ensuring cosmic balance and order. By adding these days, Thoth harmonized the lunar and solar calendars, allowing for a more accurate alignment with the natural world.

It also shows Thoth’s great compassion and his willingness to help others.

Learn about The Book of the Dead and the love story of Isis and Osiris

Thoth Helps Isis

Thoth played a crucial role in assisting Isis in several key myths, most notably in the story of the resurrection of Osiris and the birth of Horus.

Read my blog QUEEN OF THE THRONE: HONORING ISIS.

Resurrection of Osiris

Osiris, Isis’s husband, was murdered by his brother Set, who dismembered his body and scattered the pieces across Egypt. Isis, with her sister Nephthys, searched for and collected the pieces of Osiris’s body. However, restoring Osiris to life required powerful magic and wisdom, which Thoth provided.

1. Reassembling Osiris: Thoth, using his knowledge of magical spells and rituals, assisted Isis in reassembling and mummifying Osiris’s body. His expertise ensured that the process was performed correctly, which was essential for the resurrection.

2. Restoration of Life: Thoth provided the magical incantations necessary to breathe life back into Osiris. This allowed Osiris to become the god of the afterlife, ruling over the realm of the dead.

Protection and Birth of Horus

After Osiris was resurrected and became the ruler of the afterlife, Isis found herself pregnant with Horus. The child’s life was constantly threatened by Set, who wanted to eliminate any potential rival for the throne.

1. Protection During Pregnancy: Thoth offered protection and guidance to Isis during her pregnancy. He gave her spells and knowledge to keep her safe from Set’s attempts to harm her and the unborn Horus.

2. Birth of Horus: When it was time for Horus to be born, Thoth was there to assist. He provided magical support to ensure a safe delivery and continued to offer protection to both Isis and the newborn Horus.

3. Healing Horus: Throughout Horus’s childhood, he faced many dangers from Set. Thoth often came to Horus’s aid, healing him from various afflictions and injuries inflicted by Set. His healing magic was vital in ensuring Horus’s survival and eventual ability to challenge Set.

Judicial Role in the Divine Tribunal

When Horus grew up and claimed his right to the throne, a divine tribunal was held to decide the rightful ruler of Egypt. Thoth played a significant role as a mediator and scribe during the tribunal.

1. Mediator and Advocate: Thoth’s wisdom and impartiality were crucial in mediating the disputes between Horus and Set. He argued in favor of justice and the rightful succession of Horus.

2. Recording the Proceedings: As the scribe of the gods, Thoth meticulously recorded the proceedings of the tribunal, ensuring that the judgment was fair and based on truth.

Through his wisdom, magical abilities, and impartiality, Thoth provided indispensable assistance to Isis and her son Horus, helping them overcome the challenges posed by Set and ensuring the continuation of Ma’at, the divine order.

Check out my YouTube channel!

Correspondences

Symbolic Meaning: ibis, baboon, scales, papyrus role, stylus, crescent moons, and pens.

Ruling Planet: Moon

Ruling Element: Air

Season: Late summer, Fall, Mabon

Corresponding Star Sign: Gemini, Libra

Animals/Mythological Creatures: Baboon

Birds: Ibis

Plants: blue lotus, papyrus, Sweet flag,

Crystals: Agates, amethyst, carnelian, emerald, moonstone

Herbs & Scents: Anise, dill, Myrrh

Tools: writing implements

Color: White

Day: Monday

Tarot:

Deities: Isis, Ma’at, Ra

When is the Feast of Thoth?

The Thoth feast is a celebration of Thoth, the Egyptian God. Thoth was the scribe for gods and humans alike. He recorded everything from history to stories to songs.

I found several “official” dates during my research, all from Egyptian historians. August 6 and October 24 stand out the most. I choose to place it on our holiday calendar for August 6 however you may choose to celebrate in the fall as well.

The Feast of Thoth is still celebrated in many regions of Egypt today. It is also celebrated as a day of writing and sharing stories.

During August the Ancient Egyptians also celebrated the WAG Festival of the Dead which was dedicated to Osiris.

How Can You Celebrate And Honor Thoth?

There are many ways to celebrate Thoth's Feast!

One way is by writing down all of your good experiences that happened in the past year and then lighting them on fire.

Burn incense or sage while Thoth's Feast music plays in the background. Thoth was known for having a very melodic voice and many love to listen to his songs while celebrating this special holiday!

Egyptians loved to play games, both for physical and mental skills.

Have a feast. A typical feast in Ancient Egypt would have lots of meat that was saved for special occasions. Antelope, ostrich, fish, and geese. Today Egyptians eat more goat, mutton, and beef.

They also loved fresh fruits with figs, pomegranates, and grapes being favorites. Popularly grown vegetables would have included cucumbers and squash.

Ancient Egyptians kept bees and deserts were often honey cakes and sweetbreads. Beer and wine were common beverages.

Modern pagans can incorporate a variety of practices into their worship of Thoth, drawing on his attributes as the god of wisdom, writing, magic, and knowledge. Here are some ways to honor and worship Thoth in a modern pagan context:

1. Altar Setup

• Statues and Images: Place a statue or image of Thoth on your altar, depicting him with an ibis head or as a baboon.

• Symbols: Include symbols associated with Thoth, such as the ankh (symbol of life), the scribe’s palette, and the moon.

• Offerings: Offer items such as bread, wine, honey, or incense. Other offerings might include feathers (representing the ibis) or small writing tools.

2. Rituals and Prayers

• Daily Prayers: Recite prayers to Thoth, asking for wisdom, clarity in communication, and success in academic or intellectual endeavors.

• Full Moon Rituals: Conduct rituals on the full moon, as Thoth is associated with the moon. Use this time to meditate, perform divination, or engage in creative writing.

• Invocations: During rituals, invoke Thoth to bless your work, whether it’s writing, studying, or any form of intellectual pursuit.

3. Sacred Activities

• Writing and Journaling: Dedicate your writing or journaling practice to Thoth. Start your sessions with a short prayer or invocation to him.

• Learning and Teaching: Engage in the study of new subjects or teach others, dedicating these activities to Thoth in his role as the god of knowledge.

• Divination: Use tools like tarot cards, runes, or the I Ching to seek Thoth’s guidance. Thoth is associated with wisdom and foresight, making divination a fitting way to connect with him.

4. Magical Practices

• Spells and Incantations: Write spells or incantations to invoke Thoth’s wisdom and protection. Focus on spells related to learning, communication, and healing.

• Sigils and Symbols: Create sigils or symbols that represent Thoth and use them in your magical workings to invoke his power and protection.

5. Meditation and Visualization

• Guided Meditations: Engage in guided meditations that focus on meeting Thoth in a sacred space, such as a temple or a library. Ask for his guidance and wisdom.

• Visualization: Visualize Thoth’s presence when you are engaging in activities that require focus, such as studying or writing. Imagine him providing you with clarity and insight.

6. Community and Celebration

• Study Groups: Form or join study groups focused on learning about ancient Egyptian mythology, language, and culture, dedicating these efforts to Thoth.

• Festivals and Holidays: Celebrate ancient Egyptian holidays associated with Thoth, such as the “Feast of Thoth” (often celebrated around the beginning of the Egyptian New Year).

7. Artistic Expression

• Art and Craft: Create art, crafts, or calligraphy dedicated to Thoth. This could include painting, drawing, or creating sculptures that honor his image and symbols.

• Music and Poetry: Write and perform music or poetry dedicated to Thoth, focusing on themes of wisdom, knowledge, and the mysteries of the universe.

By incorporating these practices into their spiritual routines, modern pagans can honor Thoth and seek his guidance and blessings in their intellectual, creative, and magical pursuits.

Protection

He created magic to protect people from their enemies

“As for any man, even of any foreign land, whether of Nubia, Cush, or Syria, who shall remove this book, carrying it off from me - their corpse shall not be buried; they shall not receive cool water; their incense shall not be inhaled; no son or daughter shall wait upon them to pour water offerings to them; their name shall not be remembered anywhere on earth; they shall not see the rays of the solar disk. But, as for any servant who shall see this book, when he has caused that my soul and my name be enduring with praises - there shall be done the like for him after death ("mooring") in exchange for what he has done for me.” From Practical Egyptian Magical Spells recorded at the University of Chicago.

Spell for Protecting a Book

Materials Needed:

• A small candle (preferably white or blue)

• A piece of white cloth or ribbon

• A pen and a small piece of paper

• A bowl of water

• A few drops of essential oil (lavender or frankincense)

• The book you wish to protect

Preparation:

1. Find a quiet, undisturbed space where you can perform the spell.

2. Arrange your materials on a clean surface, with the book at the center.

3. Light the candle to create a sacred space.

Spell Instructions:

1. Centering and Invocation:

   • Take a few deep breaths to center yourself.

   • Hold the book in your hands and say:

     "Thoth, wise scribe of the gods, I call upon you. Protect this book with your wisdom and truth."

2. Anointing the Book:

   • Add a few drops of the essential oil to the bowl of water, stirring gently.

   • Dip your fingers into the scented water and lightly sprinkle it over the book, saying:

     "With this water, pure and clear, I protect this book from damage and fear."

3. Binding the Book:

   • Write the following protective sigil or symbol on the piece of paper:

     (Draw a simple symbol such as an ankh or a personal sigil representing protection)

   • Place the paper inside the book, preferably near the front or back cover.

   • Wrap the book in the white cloth or tie the ribbon around it, saying:

     "Bound in cloth, secure and tight, This book is protected by Thoth's light."

4. Sealing the Spell:

   • Hold the book close to your heart and visualize it being surrounded by a bright, protective light.

   • Say:

     "By Thoth’s wisdom and the moon’s bright glow, This book is protected, this I know. No harm shall come, no damage befall, This book is safe, protected by all."

5. Final Blessing:

   • Place the book back on the surface and allow the candle to burn for a few more minutes, infusing the space with its protective energy.

   • Extinguish the candle, saying:

     "The spell is cast, protection is strong. By Thoth's power, nothing will go wrong."

Closing:

• Thank Thoth for his guidance and protection.

• Keep the book in a special place, knowing it is safeguarded by the power of Thoth and your spell.

This spell combines the elements of invocation, anointing, binding, and visualization to create a protective barrier around the book, ensuring it remains safe from harm.

What Are Thoth’s Sacred Animals?

Thoth was the God of knowledge and he is often depicted as a man with an Ibis head. The ibis is his sacred animal because it demonstrated wisdom by easily finding its food underwater and on land.

Thoth created an ibis bird out of clay which walked around Thoth's temple until it found a spot to rest. Thoth loved his new pet so he decided to keep it as a statue in his temple!

Thoth’s symbol is an ibis over crossed arms holding a crescent moon in each hand which represents Thoth as a god who controls the movement of the stars and planets.

He is also closely associated with the baboon. Thousands of both of these animals have been found mummified at gravesites.

Thoth’s Family

Many myths have him as the husband of Ma’at. Sometimes he is seen as the creator of Ra and other times as his son.

He and his wife Ma’at sat on either side of Ra, the Sun god. Ma’at is the goddess of balance, judgment, and truth.

He is also associated with Seshat, a goddess of writing and wisdom, who is the scribe of the divine. Some myths refer to her as his wife.

Greek God Hermes and Thoth

Thoth and Hermes were both messengers of the Gods. Thoth was considered to be a lunar deity associated with wisdom, knowledge, and writing.

Thoth’s role is to record all judgments made by Anubis, with Hermes recording them in writing on his behalf.

Thoth was also known for judging people's souls after they died based upon their actions while alive. The Book of Coming Forth By Day is a guidebook that is said to contain all the secrets of the universe.

Thoth became absorbed in his work one day when a snake snuck into Thoth’s home. Thoth was bitten and almost died but Hermes, the messenger of the Gods made medicine for Thoth that saved him from death. Thoth didn't forget his caretaker when he recovered though!

Longevity

Thoth was one of the longest worshiped Gods in the history of Ancient Egypt. He was a prominent force from the Pre-Dynastic Period, starting in 6000 BCE. His worship continued until the last dynasty of Ancient Egypt till 30 BCE.

This is one reason we have so much information about him.

Thoth birth has several ideations but the most widely spread is that he was born from Ra’s lips. Thoth went on to participate in the birth of five other gods and goddesses.

What Artifacts Tell Us About Thoth

Our knowledge about Thoth, the ancient Egyptian god of wisdom, writing, and knowledge, comes from a variety of sources, including texts, inscriptions, and artifacts. Here are some key sources and artifacts that provide insights into Thoth:

1. Hieroglyphic Texts and Inscriptions: Thoth is frequently mentioned in Egyptian hieroglyphic texts found on temple walls, tombs, and monuments. These inscriptions often describe his attributes, roles, and myths associated with him. Key texts include the "Pyramid Texts," "Coffin Texts," and the "Book of the Dead," which are collections of funerary spells and hymns.

2. Temple Reliefs and Statues: Thoth is depicted in numerous temple reliefs and statues across Egypt. Notable sites include the Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Luxor, and the Temple of Edfu. These depictions often show him with the head of an ibis or as a baboon, holding symbols of his attributes like the scribes' palette, ankh, and was scepter.

3. Papyrus Manuscripts: Ancient Egyptian manuscripts written on papyrus, such as medical texts, mathematical treatises, and magical spells, often invoke Thoth. The "Papyrus of Ani," a well-preserved copy of the "Book of the Dead," contains spells that reference Thoth's role in the afterlife.

4. Thoth's Cult Center at Hermopolis: Hermopolis (modern-day El Ashmunein) was the cult center dedicated to Thoth. Archaeological excavations at this site have uncovered temples, statues, and inscriptions dedicated to him, providing valuable information about his worship and significance.

5. Amulets and Figurines: Small amulets and figurines depicting Thoth were common in ancient Egypt. These objects, often made of faience, bronze, or stone, were worn or placed in tombs for protection and guidance in the afterlife.

6. Magical and Medical Texts: Thoth is frequently mentioned in magical and medical texts, such as the "Ebers Papyrus" and the "Edwin Smith Papyrus," which contain spells and treatments attributed to his wisdom. These texts highlight his association with healing and knowledge.

7. Literary Works: Thoth appears in various Egyptian literary works and myths. One well-known story is the "Contendings of Horus and Seth," where Thoth plays a key role as a mediator and scribe for the gods. His wisdom and fairness are emphasized in these narratives.

Through these diverse sources—temple inscriptions, manuscripts, artifacts, and literary texts—we gain a comprehensive understanding of Thoth's significance in ancient Egyptian religion, science, and culture.

Take Away

Thoth’s stories can teach us about love, appreciation, and bravery too. He deeply loved his people and wanted to provide them with ways to communicate.

Author, Ame Vanorio, a lifelong pagan and environmental educator, has taken grad courses on Ancient Egypt and enjoying connecting with their Gods and Goddesses. She is particularly close to the Goddess Bastet.