Definition
Khety (M12.3) is cited as a designation for a specific variant of an Egyptian hieroglyph classified as “M12” in Sir Alan Gardiner’s sign list, with the sub‑index “.3” indicating a particular drawing style or contextual form of that sign.
Overview
Gardiner’s sign list categorises Egyptian hieroglyphs into sections; “M” denotes symbols of trees and plants. Within this section, sign M12 is generally associated with a certain plant element, often interpreted as a stylised representation of a reed, a branch, or a related botanical form. The notation “.3” is used by some Egyptologists and sign‑catalogues to differentiate between minor graphical variants that appear in different tomb reliefs, papyri, or monumental inscriptions. The term “Khety” appears to be an informal label applied to this specific variant, possibly derived from the phonetic value attributed to the sign (e.g., “kh” or “khet”) or from its appearance in personal names such as “Khety” or “Kheti” known from the First Intermediate Period and Middle Kingdom.
Etymology / Origin
The word “Khety” is a transliteration of the Egyptian phonetic value commonly rendered as ḫt or ḫty, meaning “the one belonging to the house of the god” in certain contexts, or simply used as a personal name. In the context of the hieroglyphic sign M12, the designation “Khety” likely stems from this phonetic reading rather than from an independent lexical meaning.
Characteristics
- Classification: Gardiner sign list, Section M (trees and plants), sign number 12.
- Variant: Sub‑index “.3” denotes a graphical variant; differences may involve line thickness, curvature, or additional decorative elements.
- Phonetic value: Typically associated with the consonantal value ḫ (kh) or the syllabic value ḫt.
- Usage: Appears as a phonetic or determinative component in hieroglyphic texts, particularly in names, titles, or botanical references. Specific attestation of the “.3” variant is limited to certain artefacts and has not been widely catalogued in mainstream Egyptological publications.
Related Topics
- Gardiner’s Sign List – Section M (Trees and Plants)
- Egyptian hieroglyphic phonetics
- Personal names in ancient Egypt (e.g., Khety, Kheti)
- Variants of hieroglyphic signs in epigraphic scholarship
Note
Accurate, detailed information regarding the specific sign variant “Khety (M12.3)” is not extensively documented in publicly accessible Egyptological resources. The description above is based on the general structure of Gardiner’s sign list and standard conventions for denoting sign variants. Further verification from specialised sign catalogues or primary epigraphic records would be required for a comprehensive entry.