Bee and Reed “Symbol of Unity of Egypt” Two Lands”. The Word Nesw which means the reed stands as a symbol for Upper Egypt plus “Bit” which is a bee that stands as a symbol of Lower Egypt; when they are put together, they become a symbol of the powerful domain of the Pharaoh as the eternal ruler of Upper and Lower Egypt. Note: The Bee and Reed Symbol represents the unity of Egypt and the tradition of honey keeping during ancient Egypt. also, it is used as an ideogram for “bee”.

Honey was used by all classes in Ancient Egypt, indicating that it must have been produced on a large scale. It was used for everything from sweetening food, to preventing infection by being placed on wounds, to paying taxes. One marriage contract has been found which states, “I take thee to wife… and promise to deliver to thee yearly twelve jars of honey.” Honey was exacted as tribute from conquered countries; for instance, many jars of honey were paid each year. The bee and reed are two ancient symbols that hold great significance in the history and mythology of Egypt. These symbols are often depicted together in Egyptian art and sculpture and are believed to represent the unity of Upper and Lower Egypt, the two regions of the country that were united under the rule of the pharaohs. The bee symbolizes the fertility and productivity of Lower Egypt, where the Nile Delta provides a rich and abundant land for agriculture. The reed, on the other hand, represents the fertile marshes and wetlands of Upper Egypt, which provided important resources like papyrus, a material used for writing and making paper. Together, these symbols represent the perfect balance of Egypt’s natural resources, and the synergy that resulted from the collaboration and cooperation of the two regions. They also symbolize the importance of unity and harmony in Egyptian society and serve as a reminder of the powerful and enduring legacy of ancient Egyptian culture.