What were the major religious cults and sects in Ancient Egypt?

In Ancient Egypt, there were several major religious cults and sects. Some of the most prominent ones include:

1. Cult of Amun-Ra: Amun-Ra was the chief deity of the Egyptian pantheon and the cult of Amun-Ra gained significant prominence during the New Kingdom. The pharaohs often associated themselves with this cult, emphasizing their divine connection.

2. Cult of Osiris: Osiris was the god of the afterlife and resurrection. The cult of Osiris focused on the belief in life after death and the importance of proper burial rituals. It played a crucial role in Egyptian funerary practices.

3. Cult of Isis: Isis was a goddess associated with magic, fertility, and motherhood. The cult of Isis gained popularity throughout Egypt and beyond, particularly during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It offered a more personal and accessible form of worship.

4. Cult of Hathor: Hathor was a goddess associated with love, beauty, and joy. The cult of Hathor was particularly popular among women and musicians. It celebrated music, dance, and festivities, and was often associated with fertility and childbirth.

5. Cult of Ra: Ra was the sun god and one of the most ancient and important deities in Egyptian mythology. The cult of Ra emphasized the power and significance of the sun, and it was particularly prominent during the Old Kingdom.

6. Cult of Horus: Horus was the god of kingship and the sky. The cult of Horus was closely linked to the pharaohs, who were believed to be the earthly embodiment of Horus. It played a crucial role in legitimizing the pharaoh's rule.

These are just a few examples of the major religious cults and sects in Ancient Egypt. The Egyptian religious landscape was diverse and complex, with numerous other cults and sects dedicated to various gods and goddesses.