As in ancient times, we will begin with the Opener of the Way, the Kemetic God known as Wepwawet. He will open the way for us as we begin our journey to learn about the faith of Kemet.
Hieroglyphs of Wepwawet's Name
Wepwawet is depicted as a man with a jackal-head. He looks very similar to Yinepu, another aspect of Netjer who took over many of His functions. You can tell which God is shown by looking for the hieroglyphs of His Name or noticing His coloring. Wepwawet is usually brown or gray, and Yinepu is always black.
[picture of Wepwawet, with brown, black & gray background.]
Wepwawet's emblem, mounted on a standard, led the way for processions. Kemetic armies also carried it into battle to open the way through enemies. His sacred cities in ancient times were Lycopolis ("Wolf City") and Assyut (an important city for defense), where many shrines were built to honor Him.
Here is a beautiful prayer for Wepwawet, written by His son, Nakht:
Wepwawet, Opener of the Way,
Bless Your coming and Your going.
May You open the way for us and those we love,
And close the way for those who would seek to do us harm.
Wepwawet, Opener of the Way,
Bless Your coming and Your going.
Wepwawet knows all the ways in both the seen and unseen worlds. He knows the mysteries of the universe. We call upon him at the beginning of prayers every day, to open the way between Netjer and us. We pray for His help when we start something new. He may open the way for us when we have a problem, but He will also expect us to do our part and work for the answer.
Test your knowledge!
[click on question to see answer]
1. What is one of Wepwawet's Titles?
2. How can you tell the difference between Yinepu and Wepwawet in a picture?
3. How can Wepwawet open the way for you in your life?
