what were the two major uses of hieroglyphics? how did it affect egyptian culture?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hieroglyphics
Read carefully, especially the first two paragraphs.
Please read the questions again,and review the words that you read in the History book,or you can search on to look for the uses and more of this Egyptian cultures.The only way you could know better,is to read the text clearly and understand it,ask,and search.
The two major uses of hieroglyphics in ancient Egyptian culture were religious and administrative.
1. Religious Use: Hieroglyphics were primarily used for religious purposes. They were employed to record prayers, hymns, and religious texts, as well as to document important religious ceremonies and rituals. The ancient Egyptians believed that hieroglyphics had divine origins and that they possessed magical and spiritual powers. Therefore, the use of hieroglyphics in religious contexts played a crucial role in maintaining spiritual beliefs and practices.
2. Administrative Use: Hieroglyphics were also used for administrative purposes. The ancient Egyptians used hieroglyphics to maintain records of historical events, royal decrees, laws, and governmental proceedings. They were used extensively for bureaucratic needs, such as keeping track of tax collections, land ownership, and official correspondence. Hieroglyphic inscriptions were found on temple walls, steles, papyri, and other writing surfaces, indicating their widespread use in administration.
The use of hieroglyphics had a profound impact on Egyptian culture:
1. Cultural Identity: Hieroglyphics were symbolic representations of Egyptian culture and beliefs. They formed a unique writing system that set the ancient Egyptians apart from other civilizations. The ability to read and write hieroglyphics was limited to a small group of scribes, giving them a significant status in society. This exclusivity of knowledge contributed to the preservation and continuity of Egyptian traditions and culture.
2. Religion and Worldview: Hieroglyphics played a central role in the religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. They not only recorded religious texts but were also seen as sacred symbols representing the gods and their interactions with the world. The hieroglyphic inscriptions on temple walls served as a visual representation of the religious rituals and beliefs, strengthening the connection between the people and their gods.
3. Preservation of History: Hieroglyphics acted as a historical record-keeping system. They allowed the ancient Egyptians to document and preserve their history, including the reigns of pharaohs, military campaigns, and important events. This helped build a sense of continuity and a shared historical identity among the Egyptians.
Overall, hieroglyphics were a fundamental aspect of ancient Egyptian culture, intertwining religion, administration, and cultural identity.