Set (also spelled Seth) is one of the most misunderstood figures in ancient Egyptian mythology. Often depicted as a chaotic and destructive force, Set’s role in the Egyptian pantheon is frequently misrepresented in popular culture. Many modern interpretations have even equated him with the devil of Christian mythology. However, a closer look reveals a multifaceted deity who held a significant position in the belief system of ancient Egypt. For those interested in working with Set, it’s important to understand his true nature and how to approach this powerful god.
Who is Set in Egyptian Mythology?
He was a god of the desert, storms, and disorder. He was the brother of Osiris, Isis, and Nephthys, and the son of the sky goddess Nut and the earth god Geb. Set’s most famous myth involves his betrayal of Osiris, which led to Osiris’s death and Set’s later battle with Horus, the son of Osiris and Isis.
He was often portrayed with the head of an animal called the “Set animal,” whose appearance is ambiguous and has been compared to a mixture of various creatures, such as a jackal, aardvark, and donkey. This bizarre form underlines Set’s connection to the chaotic and untamed forces of nature.
Set’s Negative Reputation
Set’s negative reputation stems from his role in the myth of Osiris. In the story, he kills Osiris out of jealousy and attempts to seize control of Egypt. His act of fratricide and subsequent struggle for power painted him as a villain. As a result, he became associated with disorder, chaos, and evil in Egyptian thought.
However, the ancient Egyptians did not see him as purely evil. Rather, he represented a necessary force of disruption. The Egyptians believed that balance was essential in the world. Without Set’s destructive tendencies, renewal and regeneration could not occur. He was also associated with the “Red Land” or desert, symbolizing the dangerous and untameable aspects of nature.
Set Equated with the Devil?
In modern interpretations, he is often compared to the devil in Christian theology. This is likely due to his association with chaos and evil, as well as his role as an antagonist in many myths. However, this comparison is misleading. The devil in Christian theology represents the ultimate embodiment of evil, while Set was a more complex character.
In Egyptian mythology, Set’s actions were not inherently malevolent; they were part of the eternal struggle between order (represented by Osiris and Horus) and chaos (represented by Set). This dichotomy was central to the ancient Egyptian understanding of the cosmos. He, in this sense, was not “evil” in the way that many modern religions define evil. Instead, he was an important, albeit controversial, figure within the balance of the universe.
Set’s Role in Egyptian Religion
Despite his association with chaos, he was not universally seen as a force to be feared. In some regions of Egypt, Set was revered as a protector and a powerful deity. He was especially important in the military, where he was considered a god of strength and endurance. The pharaohs of Egypt would sometimes invoke Set’s power to aid them in battle and ensure victory over their enemies.
Additionally, Set had an important role in the underworld. He was one of the gods who helped protect the sun god Ra during his nightly journey through the underworld, fighting off the serpent Apophis, who represented chaos and destruction.
How to Work With Set
If you wish to work with Set, it’s important to approach him with respect and understanding. Here are some ways to connect with Set and harness his energy:
1. Acknowledge the Dual Nature of Set
Set is both destructive and protective, a force of chaos but also of strength and perseverance. Understand that working with Set is not about embracing evil, but rather about accepting the necessity of balance in life. Chaos can lead to change and growth, and Set’s power can help you overcome obstacles or move through transitions.
2. Invoke Set for Strength and Protection
Set is a god of warriors and strength, and many called upon him for protection during battles. If you are facing a difficult situation or challenge, you can invoke Set for courage, resilience, and protection. This might be helpful in matters of personal growth, business endeavors, or even physical strength and endurance.
3. Embrace the Desert Energy
Set is connected to the desert and the untamed forces of nature. Spend time in environments that resonate with Set’s energy, such as barren or wild places, or even symbolically through meditation. The desert represents the unknown, and Set can help you navigate uncharted territory in your life.
4. Use Rituals to Call Upon Set
Set is often invoked in rituals that focus on transformation. You may create a ritual space with objects that symbolize his energy, such as red candles (representing the desert and chaos), animals associated with Set (like the jackal), or symbols of strength like swords or shields. Offerings can be made, such as incense or stones, which represent Set’s connection to the earth and nature’s raw power.
5. Work with Set in Shadow Work
As a god of chaos and disruption, Set is also associated with confronting the darker aspects of the self. If you are working through shadow work or addressing hidden fears and desires, Set can be a powerful ally. He helps break down old patterns and beliefs, allowing for rebirth and new growth. Working with Set in this way can be intense, but ultimately transformative.
Conclusion
Set remains one of the most intriguing and misunderstood gods in Egyptian mythology. While his reputation as a villain in certain myths has led to comparisons with the devil, this oversimplifies his role. Set was a god of necessary disruption, ensuring the balance of nature and the cosmos. He was neither purely evil nor purely good but a complex figure essential to the ancient Egyptian understanding of the world.
To work with Set, approach him with respect and a deep understanding of his dual nature. Embrace his chaotic yet protective qualities, call upon his strength when needed, and don’t shy away from exploring the shadowy parts of yourself. By doing so, you can harness Set’s energy to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and gain a deeper understanding of life’s balance.
