Kemetic Orthodoxy

[Erincelt]

I'm not precisely a new Pagan, as some of you know (I'm about to celebrate my 10th year, w00t!) but I'm fairly newbie-ish to this subject..

I admit I'd thought of the Egyptian (excuse me, Kemetic) pantheon as being "in lee".. that is to say, that its only followers and believers in modern times were found in Egyptian-themed Wiccan Covens, and in Thelema. It never occurred to me that someone might actually be attempting to reconstruct the very ancient form of the religion.. and I'm incredably intrigued.

I know I've seen at least one member of MW claim Kemetic as her faith, and so now I'm asking for her -- and others, please! -- to tell me what you can about this.. Is the Kemetic Orthodoxy I stumbled across a legitimate and worth-while organization for me to form ties with? If I were a person interested in this faith, what would I need to know, from the very beginning? You can assume I'm a fluffbunny know-nothing "relgious virgin" if it helps. ;) I can take the punishment.

Thanks in advance.. and if any of you have no clue what I'm on about, try the two links below, which are what got my own wheels a-turning:

House of Netjer (http://www.netjer.org)
Kemetic Orthodoxy (http://www.kemet.org)

[Raevyn]

I and NeferSesemet are the resident Kemetics. She might have a better idea of Kemetic Orthodoxy as I've never joined them - I'm with Per Ankh ( http://www.per-ankh.org/ and they sponsor a community at http://www.kemetonline.com/ ) and Akhet Hwt-Hrw ( http://www.hwt-hrw.com/ ). These two, however, are not Kemetic Orthodoxy and thus don't have someone acting as a pharoah as you find with House of Netjer. Per Ankh labels themselves as Kemetic Traditional Religion (KTR) and are more centered on observing ancient culture and worldview and bringing them forward to modern times, whereas Akhet Hwt-Hrw is more based on research, evidence, and facts.

I've heard some things about the House of Netjer being cult-like, because their leader is considered the living embodiment of Netjer (God). Part of being with them means giving of yourself to her, whether that be giving her money or items, or sacrificing your life if need be. They are very devoted to their Nisut. Which is fine, but not my cup of tea :) and between Per Ankh and Akhet Hwt-Hrw there's room for everyone. There is one I'd steer you away from but you haven't mentioned it - if you want more help because you've found other organizations or need guidance you can email me at raingnosis@yahoo.ca

I'm sure NeferSesemet will be along shortly to chime in too :)

[Ahautenites]

**is doing the chiming-in thing....** :D

**ponders, with a slight frown** How to describe them without sounding like I'm bashing them..... Well, first off, they are very nice people. Or at least the ones I've met have been extremely helpful and friendly. They are indeed very devoted to the Nisut (who is their king). The Nisut claims to be in line for true kingship of the ancient land of Kemet, and of all those who have claimed this, I would give her the most credence, on the grounds that she is quite a learned woman (at least as far as Egyptian studies go) and extremely dedicated to her people.

That being said, House of Netjer is not "cult-like". :) It is, in fact, a bona fide cult, and they say so specifically on their website... even if that admission is fairly well hidden in an obscure part of their site. (Fortunately, they don't seem like a bunch of Egyptian Branch Davidians, so this is a plus.)

I'm currently enrolled in their beginner's class because I wanted to see for myself exactly how they were (because I'd read some, ah -- interesting -- posts on KemetOnline).

They believe in molding their modern-day lives to what research and literature have shown to be the way ancient Egyptians lived and believed.

Kemetic Orthodoxy is quite a beautiful religion in its own way. Its people are wonderful and extremely devoted to the faith. However, there are things about it that I don't like, probably because I still am a Pagan cat that doesn't like to feel like it's being herded. **shrugs** I'm just too Un-Orthodox for that. :) Other Kemetic sects (those without the word "Orthodox" in their name) seem to be the way I'm leaning, even though I plan to see my beginner's Orthodox class through to the end in May.

So.... All in all, I have to say that Kemetic Orthodoxy is a valid religion and one that is worth spending your time living, if you know full well what you're getting yourself into and if you are in full agreement with their beliefs. If you're still interested, I'd encourage you to join one of their beginner's classes. They're free, and they give you three options at the end of the class: go your own way, stay on as Remetj (which means that you are a "friend/family member of Kemetic Orthodoxy" but does not require full conversion to the faith and allows you to keep your other religious beliefs in addition to those of Kemetic Orthodoxy), or stay on as Shemsu (which is full conversion to the faith, where you would renounce all ties to other religious beliefs). I think you can still join this current class, but I'm not sure. Otherwise, the next class starts in May.

I haven't heard of the one that Raevyn alluded to, but I did run across another version of Kemetic Orthodoxy online and it smelled somewhat fishy, so I never went back to it.

**is now livid with the Delete key on her keyboard, because it just erased half of her post, rather than just erasing a single word**

Let's see.... I was saying the things you should know....

First thing to keep in mind is that They are very persistent. They let you have things your way usually, but when They want something, there's no way you're going to get out of doing it.

Second was.... be very careful what you wish for. They have this quirky habit of liking to please Their chosen children by granting the most bizarre wishes. I say this from experience. I got an office flood that I facetiously wished for to get out of doing an assignment. Imagine my chagrin when I came in Monday morning to find that that particular wish had been granted.

Third.... As a politeness to Them, learn and use Their original Kemetic names whenever possible, rather than using the Greek versions.

Fourth.... Talk to Them. Treat them respectfully, but treat Them as friends and family, because They are that, also. It's been a long time since They were worshipped popularly, so They enjoy quality one-on-one time with Their chosen.

[Erincelt]

Thanks both of you, very much! I may well try that course, and I'll certainly go poking about to see what else I can find.. I recently thought to try Google's directory and see what I could fine.. and there's a ton, so I've got my reading scheduled for about the next month, I think. ;) Remetj probably sounds a likely slot for me.. that's been pretty much my attitude toward every other group I've ever come across. :D

Thanks again.

[Erincelt]

I've been somewhat interested in Anubis -- or Anpu, I believe it is? -- from within my present path.. and basically just wonder what you think/feel in regard this deity. Pretend I know nothing whatsoever about Him and run with me. :) I find a particular pull to him at night (go figure) which is when I used to hold about 99.999% of my practices when I first began.. and have been doing so more often again now.

So, what say thee about the jackal-headed one?

[Ahautenites]

I say He's a wonderful guide. I haven't had the pleasure of working with Him, personally. Most of the time, it's Seshat (who owns my head) and Ma'at who guide me, though Aset, Hrw, and occasionally Bast will have a go, too.

Learn as much as you can about Him, perhaps gaze on an image or statue of Him and converse with Him or meditate. He'll tell you if you're His. Possibly in words, or possibly just in other kinds of messages.

Yinepu (aka Anpu) is one who frequently guides people to Kemetic beliefs. The Nisut of the House of Netjer believes this is part of an agreement she has with Him and Bast. In exchange for her service to Them, They give hitherto-unknown children of Netjer a proverbial clue-by-four to the head to get them interested in Kemetic beliefs.

**edited to correct a wayward apostrophe**

[Erincelt]

You know, that's somewhat ironic... I'm a firm believer that when one uses a particular godname, you should try to pair it with another from the same pantheon. When I first started working with Anubis, in the "I'll call your name, you show up if you like, and maybe I'll learn a little about you" type way, I sat and waited for someone/thing to tell me who to use as my goddess aspect with him.. and wouldn't you know it, I got Bast. I know even less about her than I do him, but that's who came.

*dun dun duuuuuuun*:bug:

I think in my next rite I'll try using the name "Yinepu" and see if it helps. :)

[Erincelt]

This has been quite an interesting new stage in my journey thus far. At this time I don't have any plans to "align" myself with HoN, entirely for my own reasons -- such as my intense devotion to my current path. :) But this has certainly been enlightening.

Yinepu does seem to prefer his "natural" name, so I think I'll make that change permanent. I'm starting to look into the rest of the pantheon now that my perception of it has been cleansed, and I'm looking into some of the other Kemetic "groups", such as Per Ankh.

Now.. you knew there'd be a question in this somewhere, didn't you? ;) Well, here it goes... How do Kemetics feel -- and I know you can't neccesarily speak for everyone -- about the use of their pantheon outside their practice? Ie, Wiccan circles, Thelema, and others. I know you two haven't shown any abhorrence whatsoever to my speaking of working with Yinepu and to a lesser extent Bast. But I just wonder what the broadest conception is. :)

Thanks in advance, as usual!

[Rainx]

Depends on the person, truly. I've seen a lot of Kemetics who don't care one way or another, but then I've seen Kemetics who get a bit pissy about it (one thing that comes to mind is one person's contempt when a book was mentioned that involves mixing Kemeticism with Hermeticism).

As long as an individual does some research and is respectful, I don't see a problem with it. I mean, it's all fine and good to have your own path but if I see another "devotee of the Ancient Egyptian Goddess, Isis" I might puke.

[Ahautenites]

:thumbsup: What *she* said. :)

Having considered myself Tameran for a year before I decided I really was more Kemetic, instead, I have no problem with other people calling on those Names of Netjer.

But I, too, have seen some Kemetics getting as bent out of shape about Egyptian Wiccans using "their" gods "improperly". It's much the same with any Reconstructionist group, I think: some don't care, others have a coniption fit. **wanders off to go find the correct spelling of "Coniption"**


**Finished with her search, Ses wanders back in to tell people...** It's "Conniption" with a double-n. :D

[Erincelt]

Well, as per suggestion I decided I would at least try the HoN's beginner's course, and it just started yesterday. (we're still getting through introductions... :)) My interest has been through a constant wax and wane cycle, but that's just me regardless, and I'm no less intrigued. I'm not sure how long this course runs, but I'll try and keep you posted if anything major develops of it. ;) Once I know a little something I'd like to look into the different "flavors" of Kemetics/Kemeticism/however-that's-written in practice.

As to that T-word, Tameran, that's another I'm not familiar with... care to elaborate for spongie lil' me? Danke. :D

[Rain Gnosis]

Tameran comes from "Ta`mery" which is the Kemetic word for "beautiful land". Tamerans work Kemeticism in with Wicca or some other religion/system.

How much does the HoN beginners course cost btw? And how does it look so far? I'm just finishing the Per Ankh new members class (which, if you wanna ask about, I'll talk to you in PM about), and don't have the $100 for the Akhet Hwt-Hrw Rekhyet course.

[Ahautenites]

HoN's class is free (but you may want to buy the books that go along with the lessons) and comes with 10 weeks of lessoning. I gained an appreciation of HoN, but not much else. I sent along my suggestions for improvement when asked at the end of the course, so maybe there will be a new and improved class regimen in the future. *shrugs* What I definitely encourage is that you attend all of the chats (I stopped doing that eventually), and definitely DO ask a lot of questions in the e-mail group. Very few people in my group did, and it was a shame because it was wasting valuable extra lesson space/time. And visit the HoN forums, too. That was something else I never did.

[Xander67]

I was going to take the beginners course but I put it on hold untill i do a bit more research... someone who I thought was my friend had told me about it, and she told me that she was studying to be a Prisetess.... I backed away from it, but i did like the over all concept.. perhaps after I finish school this winter I will look into it again.

[Ahautenites]

I think it's a good bit of knowledge to have in mind, but I'm just not of the mentality to be a part of that group. My thoughts run more closely to those of Per Ankh, but for all of that, I still cling to my solitary ways.

Before I took the class, I visited the website nearly every day for a year and I studied everything that interested me about Kemetic lifestyles and beliefs, etc.

If I ever go back to college, I'd love to check out courses at the Oriental Institute in Chicago.

[Rain Gnosis]

What books do you need for the HoN course? Actually, I don't remember if you PMd me about your experiences there; if not, could you?

We're still not done the Per Ankh one :rolleyes: *sigh* Still waiting on lesson 6 questions to be posted. It has amounted to 6 lessons mostly consisting of opinions and basic reading comprehension - mostly discussing community, our role in it, the daily rite and how it creates ma'at, and we're to do a shrine consecration for the last lesson I think. It's unfortunate because I think most people dropped out; I'm not even sure if I have more then one classmate left as people just don't show up or post.

Edited to add - it's also taken over 6 months instead of about 3.

[Ahautenites]

There is a reading list of suggested books you can read as you follow along with the lessons, but you don't have to buy them. They make you swear an oath not to share the list or copies of the lesson with anyone. However, the list is basically just a bunch of good source material (though I only own one of them) that you've probably come across anyway, and the recipe for natron is one that has been floating around the Internet for a long while. The ritual wording and procedure for Senut (shrine) is pretty much basic from what I've seen of other people who've posted it on their own personal websites, so it's kind of an open secret. The duration of the class I was in was very reliable. The only interruption was when one of the teachers had to be brought to the hospital for an illness.

I can't recall if I PM'd you about my experience, but I will do so. :)

[Tarbh Nathroch]

Erincelt, I am in that class. See you there.

Rain Gnosis
"How much does the HoN beginners course cost btw? And how does it look so far?"

Nothing to say yet. Like Erincelt said we're just starting, intros only so far.

I know I won't be joining them but I will take there knowledge. I hope to learn a lot from them.

Rain how did you like the Per-Ankh? Too bad people are dropping out. I was thinking of doing that class also.

[Rain Gnosis]

For me the Per Ankh NMC (new members class) has been quite rocky and slow. There were a lot of personal problems at the outset, and throughout, and honestly I think we went from a class of about 30 to 2 or 3 (like I said, I'm not even sure, since many people don't show up to each class and/or don't post, I'm not sure how many are left). Since a huge part of the class is a) the formal and informal chats and b) the discussions on the message board, not having many people in class has really cut out a lot of the experience.

We have 6 lessons, each should take a couple weeks, but here it is the end of June (we started in January) and we haven't gotten the questions for lesson 6 yet. For the better part of the class people didn't seem to know when chats were, chats were cancelled or people didn't show up because they didn't know there was a chat or went to the wrong chatroom (they switched chat software sometime in there). Very disorganized.

What I did enjoy about the class was that it gave me a much better sense of community (that was a major part of understanding Kemet for us), ma'at (harmony, justice, the right way - the goal of a Kemetic), and the love of Netjer. We got a daily rite and more recently a shrine consecration, and there are calendars put out regularly with celebration days calculated by the priests. RevRenee and RevJade were *always* available as friends and mentors - they were *always* asking how people are doing and being there if you needed to talk, being encouraging and understanding.

If you want to take the NMC, go to http://www.kemetonline.com/ and sign up. I remember there's an application form on http://www.per-ankh.org/ I think but not exactly where (since I actually signed up I think in August). Their NMC should be starting in a couple weeks, once we get this one done! :)

[Erincelt]

Erincelt, I am in that class. See you there.
Hey, I did see you. :) I'm the one going under the name 'ibisbasenji' so you know.

Rain Gnosis, Hopefully they'll have better luck with future groups.. since that's most likely my next stop after this one. I have noticed, at this short mark anyhow, that the people seem to be of a very warm nature. That is good. Not that I had any doubt, what with you and Nefer and the others here who have made it very clear you guys are good people. ;)

I suppose its also true, something else you guys told me, that often Yinepu and Bast draw people toward Kemeticism.. it seems the three gods I've noticed mentioned the most often among introductions so far are Djehuty, Yinepu, and Bast.. my own favorites to boot. Creepiness. :D

[Erincelt]

Tameran comes from "Ta`mery" which is the Kemetic word for "beautiful land". Tamerans work Kemeticism in with Wicca or some other religion/system.

Iiiiiiinteresting. I'm suprised I hadn't heard of that. Might have to learn about it a little.. worth knowing anyhow. Danke.

[Rain Gnosis]

As far as I know there isn't any set temple of Tamerans, unlike Per Ankh and Akhet Hwt-Hrw and House of Netjer with Kemeticism it just appears to be the term for a personal path.

I've considered calling myself Tameran as well, but it doesn't seem to get across that I'm interested in Wicca and more recently Hermeticism primarily and Kemeticism has moved somewhat to the back of my mind (I see my classes and research there as allowing me to have a solid foundation in Kemetic deities and culture, but I don't think Netjer is just right for me).

[Ahautenites]

Tamerans, to my knowledge, don't have temples. However, there are covens of Tamerans, and there are temple-like congregations of Tamerans who don't call themselves Tamerans, too. (Isians would be one such example.)

[Erincelt]

Well, we're up to lessons 2 & 3 now, and I must say I've been impressed by a number of things, about both the people and the material. As per the request of the learning group, I had a brief conversation with Yinepu and Bast, putting my current practices temporarily on hold -- so as to be open to relearning about Them. As I'd expected, They weren't bothered about it at all... although it did seem like Yinepu-Wepwawet had to drag Bast off, but hey... ;)

I'm sure Tarbh will concur, the attitude of our mentors has so far been... shockingly warm. Creepily happy people, these are. :D

Well.. I just thought I should update. Really not much new to report. I'm slowly working on a shrine, so I might want opinions from Nefer, Rain G., etc about it. So far its just a stand with a white cloth and a white candle on a dais in the middle of it.

Ankh udja snb. :) [Henu]

[Tarbh Nathroch]

Yep, Very nice people so far. Seem to be very free with info and don’t hesitate to answer questions, and I’ve asked a few duzzies. I can be a real jerk at times, but they took the questions very well and gave an acceptable answer. I have been enjoying the class and the reading material has been great.

[Ahautenites]

I'm glad the answers they give you guys have been very forthcoming. The one question I asked, "Why does the Nisut do senut four times a day?" got me the answer "So we followers don't have to." Maybe he honestly misunderstood my question (I was asking what there was need to do Senut four times a day for, rather than just one big long one at the end of the day), and then I was hoping that he'd let me ask how one "does Senut in various ways throughout the day." But the discussion never went that far and he didn't seem to want to take the time to answer that question, so I didn't press. **shrugs** It just felt like a cyclical brushoff answer, to me.

[Tarbh Nathroch]

Hey Nef, Maybe you just got a crap teacher. So far our teacher and liaisons have been pretty good. You want me to ask that question for ya to see what I get?

[Ahautenites]

**shakes head** Nah, that's okay. It *was* kind of a personal question that I probably shouldn't have been so nosey about. Thanks, though.

[Rain Gnosis]

I don't think that was a personal question or unfounded Ses. *shrugs*

[Ahautenites]

With the way I meant the question, I was asking what she prays about. I'm not sure I'd like it if people asked me what I pray about, either. :)

[Rain Gnosis]

I dunno chickie, the priests in Per Ankh talk to us about what they pray about and how their prayers are on behalf of the whole community and priesthood etc.

[Rain Gnosis]

Mind you, the questions for that last lesson still are not posted. I think it's been.. oh.. at least 4 weeks.

[Ahautenites]

That really is a pity. I expected more from them. But I guess they have their own difficulties to get through first. And if they can't get through them, the class will be defunct.

Shame we can't start a thread of Kemetic Lessons right here at MW. Not that I'd offer to teach it. I'm pretty much a slacker as far as religious practices go, aside from nightly prayer before bed.

[Rain Gnosis]

What I wanna know is why there is *so* much isfet in Kemetic communities. I've been a part of a lot of Pagan communities and I've never seen as much drama and public fighting as in Kemetic communities lately.

The only community I haven't seen it in is in INK, and it appears that no one's posting there anyway.

[Ahautenites]

I tend to attribute it to the fact that everyone wants to rule the world. Kemeticism offers the chance for one person to claim to be in charge of everyone else in the religion, regardless of which House they are a member of. There's a very strict structure, and a lot of power struggles can exist to see who will be the next Nisut or the next Spiritual Leader (in those that don't have one they call Nisut).

The fact that the religion itself is so open to personal interpretation (owing to a lack of solid information that applies to current-day lifestyles), means that there is still more room for strife.

Houses also tend to have a My Way Or The Highway mentality.

[Rain Gnosis]

Even outside the priesthoods though, there are a few people running around (especially on LJ, ahem) throwing isfet around like nobody's business.

The Kemet community on LJ has become nothing more then a place for some members to post entries about eachother and fight and spread rumours.

[Ahautenites]

**sighs** Ahhhhh. Now that sounds like a case of "misery loves company." The site I used to belong to turned into that, too.

Best to just avoid stuff like that, lest you get sucked into the quagmire, too.

It really is depressing to see how people fight over every little thing.

[Tarbh Nathroch]

Wow, What a drag. I’m sorry you two are getting exposed to all that drama and hassle. I guess it will be up to us to act better. I hope the class I’m in fairs better, I want their knowledge. I was hoping to do the Per Ankh class too, I hope they get their shit together. I will not be becoming a member at the House of Netjer, so far I have terminal problems with the idea of the Nisut. I’m just not an Orthodox kinda guy. I do think they have some valuable info, at lest I think it’s valuable at the moment. Mostly because I don’t have it. I’m not sure how the other classes here on MW are going, but I’m happy just reading posts from the two of you so far.

[Erincelt]

Well we're coming close to the end of the course now, and I'm weighing the possibility of "remetj-hood". I'll have to look into some of the other Kemetic groups out there, and the Tameran (sp?) following I asked about before... I think I've really "come home" in opening to Netjer.

I'm still debating about how I feel about this set of Netjer's believers, however... There are any number of things that I both like and dislike about HoN (sometimes like and dislike at the same time). Maybe you guys could tell me your feelings about any other groups you know and/or are affiliated with, such as Per Ankh, etc.

[Rain Gnosis]

I will PM you.

[Erincelt]

After a conversation with our class teacher, wherein I told her about some of my biggest reasons for not wishing to "convert", and after a number of smaller conversations with mentors, both mortal and otherwise, I've found myself looking at an interesting set of connections with regard to how I view the divine.

Current practice godhead is "Dryghton", viewed simultaneously as the cosmic seed and cosmic womb, the source/birth of everything. This rather easily and obviously compares to Netjer so I'll move on.

Next step in my current practice, the God & Goddess; duality, polarity, opposites and compliments, and all the interrelationships. This compares as well, to all the opposites and compliments among he Names, to the seen and unseen worlds, and so forth.

Last step, Patrons and Matrons; gods/goddesses with especial interest in the follower. I don't think I have to state how very close this is.

So.. it appears to me like the two systems are applications of a nearly identical core them, with culture, era, and other such circumstances to blame for much of the divergence.

Thoughts?

[Ahautenites]

Whichever one you are more comfortable with is right for you. You could even do the time-share thing that I used to do with my original matron and patron and my Kemetic "adopted parents." It's a bit confusing sometimes, but They don't care. I don't think the gods care what you call Them, as long as you acknowledge Their presence every now and then. That's actually part of my ritual night-time prayer. "Great Ones, thank You for all that you do for me. I hope You will always be here in the future, within and without, in this life and beyond, by whatever Name I call You...." This quote is the only unchanging part of my religious practices and the only practice that I say *every* night without fail.

[Erincelt]

Hey guys, remember this old thread? :D Don't mind the dust...

I'm going through the process right now of undergoing KO's Rite of Parent Divination, and it is proving to be more of an experience than I'd expected. I don't think I'm technically supposed to mention details so I'll try to refrain, but I think I understand what's really going on with it now, and why the secrecy about it. So far I've had myself corrected at least three times, the Netjeru themselves pointing at one of my answers on the preperation questionnaire and stating a flat No, and basically telling me what my answer would be for another. :O It seems like its the process of finding these answers that will really be telling me what I'm wanting to know, and the Rite is more of a confirmation of what I discover on my own.

But I thought I might let you guys know that, yes, I'm still just a Remetj but I think I may be leaning toward Shemsuhood, mostly for my own reasons. To steal a line from Mists of Avalon, "My vows are to Her, not to you." I've realized that's more of their take on the role of the Nisut, who acts as a teacher more than a king. Having met her a couple of times now -- online, mind you, not yet in person -- I definitely lost many of my apprehensions about her as a person.

Its going to be fun to see how this devout Discordian Wiccan is going to end up a KO Shemsu... :hehehehe:

[Ahautenites]

**grins** Nekhtet, Erin Celt! As much as KO is not my love, I have respect for anyone who wants to take their Kemetic studies that far. I wish you great joy and continued success on your path.

[Erincelt]

I never did make any update on that rite, did I? For shame!

Well, with a resounding "I told you so!" from the heavens, I was divined son of Yinepu-Wepwawet and beloved of Khepera and Bast... which explains a lot of what's happened since I started paying attention to Them but that's neither here nor there. :)

Okay, I admit it, I'm just flaunting my new icon. :D :hehehehe: :D

[aftershocked]

And a beatuiful icon it is! I've yet to even stary the beginner's class (I'm waiting untill I'm 18 to sign up so I can do so without parental consent- they don't really know of my religious choices as of yet) but Yinepu's basically claimed my head as far as I can tell.. plus He gave me my name a while back, unexpectedly.

I know you're not really allowed to discuss details about the class, but would you mind giving me a little personal perspective of the beginner's course? What you were expected to know going in, personal opinions of chats.. whatever you would be comfortable sharing? I'd be very appreciative.

And nekhet on your parent divination! :)

[Erincelt]

Biggest bit of advice I can give you on the class is the same bit I kept getting from everyone: attend all the chats! I actually did miss one, and I still lament it to this day... will probably retake the course once just because of it even. ;) Aside from that, just don't be afraid to ask questions -- any question, no matter what -- and try to talk to people as much as possible... get on the boards as soon as you can (if you aren't already, for all I'd know) and try to interact. Over there I currently carry the name "ibisbasenji" if you're around. :) The matching icon should give me away. And to address another bit of your questions: they don't expect much of anything at all. There is an application, but its more for demographic purposes than anything.

[Erincelt]

Not really an update, not even really a revival of this old thread... Nope, its really just a shameless plug put somewhere I thought it made sense, and where some of you guys who helped me ease into this new experience might find it. :) I decided to try my hand (for the first time) at something in the way of a hymn... I like it, but I'm biased. Thoughts, suggestions, criticism, general responsiveness?

http://www.deviantart.com/view/6534962/

(And if you get a 404, just try again... and again if need by. They've been having server issues.)

[Ahautenites]

**is in awe** Nekhtet, indeed, Son of Yinepu-Wepwawet. :thumbsup: It was a masterpiece. I think you surpassed those you sought to emulate. I think He must be quite pleased with your eloquent way of expressing devotion.

Do you have a melody in mind for it or is it just supposed to be intoned/chanted instead?

[Erincelt]

*blush blush*
Thankee. :) I've got my ego boost for the week now.

No melody in mind really, though I guess anything a bit prideful with triumphant punctuations would work... Wrote it for intoning.

And I'll find out soon enough how He feels about it when I present it to Him later today. :D

[SacredWithin]

I'm not precisely a new Pagan, as some of you know (I'm about to celebrate my 10th year, w00t!) but I'm fairly newbie-ish to this subject..

I admit I'd thought of the Egyptian (excuse me, Kemetic) pantheon as being "in lee".. that is to say, that its only followers and believers in modern times were found in Egyptian-themed Wiccan Covens, and in Thelema. It never occurred to me that someone might actually be attempting to reconstruct the very ancient form of the religion.. and I'm incredably intrigued.

I know I've seen at least one member of MW claim Kemetic as her faith, and so now I'm asking for her -- and others, please! -- to tell me what you can about this.. Is the Kemetic Orthodoxy I stumbled across a legitimate and worth-while organization for me to form ties with? If I were a person interested in this faith, what would I need to know, from the very beginning? You can assume I'm a fluffbunny know-nothing "relgious virgin" if it helps. ;) I can take the punishment.

Thanks in advance.. and if any of you have no clue what I'm on about, try the two links below, which are what got my own wheels a-turning:

House of Netjer (http://www.netjer.org)
Kemetic Orthodoxy (http://www.kemet.org)

Wow, you never knew that? Well, I have some information on various websites and forums.

Egyptian page (loaded with Egyptian resources) (http://geocities.com/tara_d8/egypt.html)
Kemetic/Egypt forum (Dead, but still has a lot of info) (http://kemetic.suddenlaunch.com)

and I know of a website to the Egyptian goddess, Isis/Aset Isis moon Temple (http://isismootemple.com) (lots of info on various Gods and Goddesses as well)[/url]

have fun!

[Mòrag Elasaid Ní Dhòmhnaill]

SacredWithin, this thread was started something like two years ago. Erincelt does follow some sort of Egyptian path (don't want to say Kemetic, because I'm not positive) and he just likes to pull this thread up to add thoughts to it every once in a while.

[Erincelt]

Hey so what, let'em send me links... links are gewd. :D I'm still reading and thinking and absorbing and all that good stuff. Just recently read an Egyptian legend called "The Greek Princess" and laughed aloud as I realized it was about the beginning of the Trojan War...

So anyway, links are always good, even if late-ish. And yes, the word Kemetic is plenty fitting. At least I like to think so. ;)

[Mòrag Elasaid Ní Dhòmhnaill]

:razz: Well fine then, see if I tell anyone else you're already a Kemetic.

[Ahautenites]

Links are "gewd"??? What on earth is "gewd"? :p

[Erincelt]

Links are "gewd"??? What on earth is "gewd"? :p You obviously haven't seen Bruce Almighty have you? "S' gewd!" ("Its good")

Morgan Freeman as God... Good Times (TM).

[Ahautenites]

**grins** Nope. Haven't seen it. I'm always a bit leary of going to see Jim Carrey on the big screen. Half the time, it's a waste of my money. Bruce Almighty was one of those I wanted to see, but somehow it got lost in the shuffle.

[Annyka]

I am glad I stumbled accross this thread. I am at the stage that Erincelt was when the thread was started. Just applied for the beginner's class at the HoN. The links and info in this thread have already helped me gain more information!

Annyka

[Ahautenites]

Good luck with the class, Annyka. :) I enjoyed it quite a bit the second time I took it. Kai-Imakhu Inibmutes is a wonderful teacher. Very knowledgeable and very personable. And there are several House members here on MW, too.

[Khuinaset]

Good luck with the class, Annyka. :) I enjoyed it quite a bit the second time I took it. Kai-Imakhu Inibmutes is a wonderful teacher. Very knowledgeable and very personable. And there are several House members here on MW, too.

Hey...Ses...if you don't mind my asking, I was reading some of your earlier posts in the thread, and they seemed to be pretty different from your thoughts on HoN now. I was wondering if you could explain what changed your mind, if that's not too personal of a question? :)

And you are oh-so-right about be careful what you wish for. I discovered that for myself a few nights ago :lol:

[Ahautenites]

**grins** Yes, I started off really not liking the House. I didn't want someone else to tell me what to do or what to believe. I didn't want to have any kind of structure. I came to where I am now by continuing to question my own beliefs and my own opinions, and by listening to what others had to say about their own experiences with organized religion. Eventually, with the help of a few choice comments from some respected friends of mine (whether they knew they were influencing me at the time or not, I don't know), I came to view my previous beliefs as biased, stubborn, and not a little bit childish and arrogant. Here I was, trying to worship ancient gods... but I was deliberately ignoring a major aspect of the religion, culture and practices. It felt arrogant and rude. And why exactly *was* I so against having a spiritual leader anyway?

That was something I spent a lot of time thinking about. It finally came to me that it was partly to do with my trust issues and partly to do with my pride. It was thinking about the word "Namasté" that solved the pride part. To say that word means basically that "I recognize and honor the divine in you." So, what was the difference between saying that word (which I have no problem doing) and performing the action of henu (a ritualistic bow that can be taken to the extreme of prostration in something called "full henu")? Pride was the issue. It took me a while to realize that it's *okay* to honor just the divine in someone in that way and not think any less of myself.

I've spent a long time trying to figure out my spirituality on my own. While it's worked for me well enough, I was lonely. Even among all of the people on MW, I still felt lonely, because while we have this site in common, most of the people here do not share my beliefs. I wanted to be with others more like me. I wanted to be able to share my experiences with someone who has been there and done that, and I wanted to be able to laugh at the quirks specific to the Egyptian gods with others who know exactly what I'm talking about because they've had it happen to themselves, too. The yearning for fellowship led me to look more closely at the various groups out there. The fact that Hemet and the others in the priesthood have such a wealth of knowledge and experience that they don't mind sharing when asked is the icing on the cake.

The first time I took the class, I really did find it wanting. No one in the class seemed really interested in anything or have anything to add. The whole first class did nothing for me, so I went my own separate way again. It's good that I did, because I learned some important lessons afterward that I realize now I needed before I could put some past issues to rest enough to move on. The HoN website still drew me. There was just something I really liked about the knowledge, the soulfulness, and the daily messages that Hemet gave in Her devotions. I kept scrutinizing and poring over every last detail, trying to make sure that there was nothing wrong with the group that I had somehow missed. I couldn't find anything. Everything that seems to be there really is there. And I've yet to find anything amiss. So, then I took the second class. I'm so glad I did. It was a completely different experience. The enthusiasm of the sebau (teacher) and the students was wonderful. The dynamic was much more conducive to learning and there was a feeling of cameraderie and fellowship that had been lacking the first time. It made all the difference in the world.

So, not sure if I answered the question as fully as I should have, but that's my story and I'm stickin' with it. ;) And no. I don't have multiple personality disorder and I haven't been brainwashed or lobotomized, either. (And if ever I notice even the smallest thing wrong with KO, I'll be out of there faster than you can blink.) I just reserved the right to change my mind after more careful consideration of the available evidence.

[Ahautenites]

**waves to six-legged catbirddog*

[Khuinaset]

thanks for your thoughts Ses :) interesting and worth reading, as usual :D :p

[Erincelt]

**waves to six-legged catbirddog* Ack!! I'm caught!! *buzzes off* ;)

That was a helluva read, though. Sounds like you've had quite a year. (And I did sort of wonder what caused that change-of-heart.)

[Ahautenites]

**grins** I often wonder what people think when they read all the stuff I've written from then to now, in regard to all things Kemetic. It must really look like someone took a two-by-four and clocked me upside the head enough to give me a different spiritual personality. But it wasn't. Honestly.

I do a lot more thinking than typing. And seeing as I'm nearing 10,000 posts to date on this site alone, that's saying something. :p

[Khuinaset]

**grins** I often wonder what people think when they read all the stuff I've written from then to now, in regard to all things Kemetic. It must really look like someone took a two-by-four and clocked me upside the head enough to give me a different spiritual personality. But it wasn't. Honestly.

Actually, I thought maybe Set had something to do with it, but I guess not :p

I should be joining the beginner's class next time around, I'm excited about it :) does anyone know who the teacher will be and what they're like?

[Erincelt]

I don't know who the teacher will be, but I believe it is always (or at least generally) one of the Imakhiu (or priesthood). When I took mine it was Kai-Imakhu Inibmutes, who was (and is) just absolutely wonderful. It appears that she often does the job, so it could well be her. Just know that she really, really wants people to ask questions and no only won't mind if you bug her, she enjoys it. Believe me, I know, I bugged her plenty.

It also might be Imakhu Sedjemes. I think this because she just fairly recently received her own ordination. I'm very familiar with her as well, as she served as my Imy-ra (regional overseer) while she was training for the priesthood. She is a fantastic individual... its hard not to love her. She can be a goofnut sometimes, to be sure.

Of course: my opinions are biased. ;)

[Ahautenites]

**grins** I was the only one who attended the regional chat at the appropriate time a couple weeks ago. Imakhu Sedjemes was there waiting, and I was the only one who showed up at the earlier time. So we hung out in the HetNetjer room and chatted about her sons, her upcoming cruise and basically just yakked about anything under the sun until everyone else showed up an hour later. She's wicked cool.

My first class was with KI Antybast. The second time was with KI Ini. I love KI Antybast and I think he's a wonderful man, but sometimes I think he's a little too scholarly to be teaching beginners. KI Ini has more of a Kindergarten teacher-ness about her that made her easier for me to approach and feel comfortable with. KI Antybast seems more reserved, more like a college professor. I like them both, but I responded better to her teaching method and personality. (Plus, as I said earlier, the people in my first class pretty much sucked.)

[Tarbh Nathroch]

I had Kai-Imakhu Inibmutes too. Thought she was excellent.

[Aset Moonglow]

Em Hotep,
I'm sorry for jumping in on this thread so late but I just stumbled upon it in search of more information about Tamerans, Kemetic Orthodoxy and such. I didn't get a chance to read all that was said. However I have been practicing Wicca for about 10 years now and My Lady has always been Aset. Lately I have been feeling a need to deepen my relationship with her and possibly Tehuti and Anpu. It has been really hard trying to find anyone in my area to talk with about this. Most of my influence comes from British Traditional Wicca. So any egyptian is almost foreign to these people. I live in Florida. I know there is a Lyceum in north florida but that is so far away for me. Where would be a good start for me?
Are there any contacts for Florida that I may be able to talk to so I can figure out where to turn on my path next?
Many Thanks!

[Tarbh Nathroch]

The House of Netjer http://www.kemet.org/home.html is a great place for info. Not trying to push you in that direction, but this is a Kemetic Orthodox thread. I like the HoN and its people a lot I just don’t follow it. But their list of recommended reading and the message board on their site are great sources of info. So far on the web I’ve found them to highly informed and well researched. So I trust what I read there more than the rest of the stuff I get from the internet.

[Erincelt]

Well its official, as of a handful of hours ago I'm a recognized Shemsu of the House. :) I'll be participating in the next Naming Ceremony and I'll be sure and share my fancy new moniker with you guys once I have it. Hooray and junk. :D

[Darakash]

Well its official, as of a handful of hours ago I'm a recognized Shemsu of the House. :) I'll be participating in the next Naming Ceremony and I'll be sure and share my fancy new moniker with you guys once I have it. Hooray and junk. :D
Congratulations! I am so happy for you and your dedication! please do share your new moniker!
dK

[Khuinaset]

Well its official, as of a handful of hours ago I'm a recognized Shemsu of the House. :) I'll be participating in the next Naming Ceremony and I'll be sure and share my fancy new moniker with you guys once I have it. Hooray and junk. :D

That's great! :D Do be sure to share the new name! :)

Although, I had a question. I hope I don't come off as rude. If I'm recalling right, you said you still practice Wicca(celebrate the sabbats and do Wiccan rituals/circles/spells)...I didn't think you could do that and be a Shemsu?

[Erincelt]

If I'm recalling right, you said you still practice Wicca(celebrate the sabbats and do Wiccan rituals/circles/spells)...I didn't think you could do that and be a Shemsu?
I do indeed still practice Wicca, specifically the Lycian Tradition. I asked Hemet about this during my Parent Divination, and She basically told me that so long as I can fulfill my oaths to both faiths, and keep them distinct (ie, don't reuse my Shrine as a Lycian Altar or some such... which really wouldn't work at all anyhow) then there's no issue. I've consulted Yinepu about it before as well, and got the same general impression.

I'm pretty sure I know where you got the idea, and in fact I thought the same (which is why I asked about it) when reading that part of the HoN's site. Maybe it could use a little editing/clarification. At levels beyond Shemsu (Shemsu-Ankh, W'ab, etc) I can't really comment, of course. :)