Sun (hieroglyph)

The ancient Egyptian hieroglyph for the sun is represented by a circle with a dot in the center, similar to the modern astronomical symbol for the sun. This hieroglyph carries several meanings and functions within the Egyptian writing system.

Firstly, it serves as a determinative for concepts related to the sun, daytime, and related solar phenomena. Determinatives are signs that do not contribute phonetic value but help clarify the meaning of a word.

Secondly, it can be used as an ideogram or logogram to directly represent the word "sun" (Ra, in Egyptian). In this usage, it represents the celestial body itself and its associated concepts, such as light, heat, and life-giving power.

Thirdly, the sun hieroglyph can also be incorporated into personal names, particularly those of pharaohs and other individuals associated with the solar deity Ra. This association underscores the importance of the sun god in ancient Egyptian religion and its connection to rulership and divinity.

The exact form of the sun hieroglyph can vary slightly depending on the time period and the specific inscription, but the basic circular form with a central point or filled center remains consistent. Its presence in texts and inscriptions emphasizes the sun's crucial role in ancient Egyptian cosmology, religion, and daily life.