On the Denderah Zodiac the Constellation Libra is represented by the Classical Constellation of the Scales, with Horus directly above. I'd like to discuss whether the iconography of the scales of Ma'at directly relate to the Constellation Libra, and whether this can be dated to the Old Kingdom.


The positioning of Libra in the Old Kingdom skies was quite exceptional, this illustration shows the position at the time of the Autumn Equinox, with the Sun about to rise due East;






Thus at this point of balance between the seasons Libra has risen directly before the Sun at due East. In terms of the Spring Equinox things are reversed, when the Sun is setting on this day then Libra is directly across rising in the East, in the same position as at the Autumn Equinox rising.





Thus it's critical concern is at the point of equilibrium of the seasons, due East, in Autumn it rises with the Sun, in Spring this is reversed to the Sunset, which is quite a remarkable balancing act, no...?



Morph
















Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 08/24/2007 07:39AM by Morph.