Eye of Horus: Discover the Origin, Meaning, and Symbolism

Ancient Egypt was known for its dynamic architecture, formal hieroglyphics, and deep spirituality. The civilization bred meaningful symbols representing various cultural beliefs and embodying Egyptian mythology. In particular, and to this day, the Eye of Horus is one of the civilization’s most popular emblems.

The Eye of Horus was a well-known symbol throughout ancient Egypt. Also known as Left Wedjat Eye or Udjat Eye, the concept represents healing and protection. There are multiple meanings associated with the Eye of Horus, but it primarily exists to guard against evil spirits or ill wishes. Many people will wear Eye of Horus jewelry or even get a tattoo of the symbol as a way to keep themselves safe.

This ancient Egyptian emblem is also highly spiritual and embodies cultural values like wisdom, intuition, and connection to the divine. Its significance has transcended thousands of years and still holds merit today.

This article will detail the origin, meaning, and symbolism of the Eye of Horus.

Ancient Egyptian Origins: Tracing the Eye of Horus Back to its Cultural and Mythological Roots

According to Egyptian mythology, Horus was a god who took the form of a falcon. The falcon-headed deity was the son of Isis and Osiris — both of whom were well-known in ancient Egypt. As the god of war and the sky, Horus had a right eye representing the sun and a left eye representing the moon. 

In the myth, Horus’s father, Osiris, was murdered by his brother, Seth — Horus’s uncle. As a result, Horus battled Seth for the right to inherit his father’s throne. During the fight, Horus lost his left eye. Hathor, Horus’s female counterpart, healed his eye. Horus ended up successfully inheriting the throne and becoming king. 

Today, we view the Eye of Horus as a symbol of healing. Additionally, it’s thought to embody divine sacrifice to restore balance and harmony.

Symbolic Meaning: Exploring the Deep Symbolism and Significance of the Eye of Horus

The Eye of Horus has many different meanings and symbolizes various themes. Let’s explore some of the specific symbolism and significance of the emblem, as well as modern-day interpretations.

Protection

As stated earlier, the Eye of Horus is a protective symbol in ancient Egypt. In fact, many used it as an amulet, wearing it as jewelry to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. To this day, people regard it as a talisman that keeps them safe and protected during trying times.

Healing

The symbol represents physical and spiritual healing because King Horus’s left eye was restored after his battle with Seth. It’s also a well-known symbol in the medical industry, with many comparing the emblem to the human brain. 

Connection to the Divine

Because Horus (and his father) was a powerful figure in ancient Egypt, the Eye of Horus represents divine connection. Just as many Christians will wear a Crucifix to feel closer to God, ancient Egyptians (and many spiritual beings today) wore jewelry featuring the Eye of Horus as a symbol of divine faith and protection. In fact, another name for the sign is Udjat, which stands for “sound” and “whole.”

Resurrection

The Eye of Horus was used as a funerary symbol to represent resurrection after the passing of a loved one. Ancient Egyptians would showcase the symbol on tombs or other burial equipment as a way to protect the spirits of those who have passed as they transition to the afterlife.

Wisdom, Intuition, and Clarity

Often touted as the “third eye,” the Eye of Horus embodies intuitive and inner wisdom. It’s said that the symbol helps foster clarity, especially when you need to make a difficult decision. The emblem provides spiritual enlightenment and rational thinking. 

Spiritual Significance

As mentioned above, the Eye of Horus is a highly spiritual symbol with various connotations. Representing divine guidance and protection, the concept of the Eye of Horus was widely regarded throughout ancient Egypt and used in many religious ceremonies and rituals.

Elements and Interpretations: Analyzing the Different Components and Interpretations of the Eye of Horus Symbol

The Physical Elements of the Eye of Horus

The Eye of Horus, also called the “Eye of the Mind,” has a distinctive shape, including detailed features like an eyebrow, tear line, iris, and more. Many people compare the symbol to the human brain, claiming it depicts the part of the brain that allows for spiritual enlightenment. This might be why some interpret it as a sort of “third eye,” representing intuitive knowledge and inner wisdom.

Fractions and Mathematics

There are six mathematical parts of the Eye of Horus, and many relate these parts to the six senses of sight, touch, taste, thought, hearing, and smell. Additionally, these parts (1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, and 1/64) were used as fractions, specifically representing Heqat fractions. Ancient Egyptians utilized the measurements for grains, flour, and more. 

Enduring Legacy: The Eye of Horus in Modern Culture and its Continued Relevance

Today, the Eye of Horus is used across various cultures for different purposes, from aesthetics to spiritual beliefs. Here are a few ways the modern world continues to honor this ancient Egyptian emblem.

Contemporary Art

The Eye of Horus originated in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and has transformed into contemporary art today. From creating acrylic paintings to intricate sculptures, modern artists often pay tribute to the significance of this symbol. In fact, many artists are fascinated and inspired by the ancient Egyptian culture during the 19th and 20th centuries, which also plays a large role in modern architecture.

Medical Symbols

Because of its association with health and healing, many alternative medical practitioners, holistic health professionals, and spiritual gurus will use the Eye of Horus as a symbol for their practice. The emblem embodies the concept of physical and spiritual well-being, embodying the idea that the body is made of various parts that must all work together. In other words, if one part of the body is hurting, it will inevitably impact others. The Eye of Horus is said to help one achieve balance and harmony in their inner world.

Jewelry and Fashion

The most common use of the Eye of Horus is as jewelry or in fashion. Modern aesthetics will incorporate the symbol as a nod to its spiritual meanings of protection, inner wisdom, and healing. Many will sport the symbol on necklaces or rings, while others will showcase it through clothing and accessories.

Tattoos

For the same reason you’d wear an Eye of Horus necklace or create a piece of artwork that features it, many get tattoos of the symbol as a way to remind themselves they are divinely protected and guided. This is especially true if the symbol plays a significant role in your own life or you relate to its cultural representations. 

Media and Pop Culture

Many movies, TV shows, and even video games feature the Eye of Horus. Not only does it carry powerful messages, but it also drives narratives that date back centuries. With spiritual and metaphysical symbolism, the Eye of Horus will often tell the story of ancient Egypt and highlight its importance to the culture. 

Avoiding Cultural Appropriation

While the Eye of Horus is a well-known and beloved symbol to many, there is the risk of cultural appropriation — especially if you don’t know what the symbol stands for. It’s essential to respect the culture this symbol represents and avoid misinterpreting its various meanings.