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A remarkable discovery of ancient propaganda supporting the Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses II has emerged in Paris. This revelation comes from Jean-Guillaume Olette-Pelletier, an Egyptologist affiliated with Paris-Sorbonne University and the Institut Catholique de Paris.
Olette-Pelletier shared his insights with the media recently about findings that are set to be published in the months ahead. The expert’s investigation led him to the 3,300-year-old obelisk located in the iconic Place de la Concorde. In 2021, he was granted access to climb scaffolding around the monument to thoroughly conduct his research.
Ramesses II, born in 1303 B.C. and ruled until 1213 B.C., is often hailed as one of the most significant and powerful rulers of ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom. His legacy has sparked much debate, particularly regarding his potential role as the pharaoh mentioned in the biblical Book of Exodus. While the Old Testament does not explicitly name the pharaoh in question, he is widely believed to have been a pivotal figure in the narrative involving Moses.
The expert boldly labeled the pro-Ramesses hieroglyphs he discovered as propaganda. Olette-Pelletier identified seven distinct codes that reinforce Ramesses II’s authority dating back to 1280 B.C.
Describing the findings, Olette-Pelletier stated, “It was a message from Ramesses II to the nobility,” who possessed the ability to decode the intricate hieroglyphs.
Born before his father, Seti I, ascended to the throne, Ramesses II’s legitimacy was often called into question. Olette-Pelletier explained that this lack of divine conception might have prompted challenges from the nobility.
He emphasized, “The nobility, able to read cryptographies, might have been tempted to rebel, as Ramesses II was not born of theogamy and therefore not divine by birth.” Olette-Pelletier also discussed how Ramesses II dedicated the early years of his reign to cementing his divine status. This included performing homage at significant shrines alongside his wife, Nefertari.
In a move to legitimize his reign, he changed his name from Usermaatra to Usermaatra Setepenra, which translates to ‘chosen of Ra.’ This tactic reflected a proactive approach to an underlying political threat.
The obelisk remains a focal point of Olette-Pelletier’s research. He pointed out that it features four sides, with one side intended to face the Nile, showcasing Ramesses II adorned with the double crown symbolizing Upper and Lower Egypt.
Furthermore, Olette-Pelletier remarked that Ramesses II utilized codes to enhance the compelling nature of his communications. He stated, “The obelisk also contains hidden texts that assert his legitimacy as a divine monarch, thus preventing any potential coups among the nobility.”
This finding adds to an increasing body of evidence regarding Ramesses II that has come to light in the past year. In September, archaeologists uncovered an ancient sword associated with Ramesses’ military in Housh Eissa, a city located in Egypt’s Beheira Governorate.
Earlier in January, Egyptian officials announced that restoration efforts would commence on Ramesses II’s temple at the Ramesseum, situated in the Luxor Governorate. This significant site has great historical and archaeological importance, connecting deeply with the legacy of the famed pharaoh.
In summary, the discovery of ancient propaganda linking Ramesses II to efforts to portray himself as a legitimate ruler underscores the intersection of politics and religion in ancient Egypt. It reveals not only the narratives promoted by those in power but also the complexities of identity and legitimacy that have lasted through the ages.
This latest finding invites further exploration into the life and reign of one of ancient Egypt’s most enigmatic figures. Scholars and enthusiasts alike will undoubtedly keep a keen eye on Olette-Pelletier’s upcoming publication and its implications for our understanding of Egyptian history.
