Ancient Egyptian Religion Magic Ancient Egyptian religion and magic were intertwined and often difficult to differentiate. Egyptians believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses who controlled different aspects of life. They believed that magic played a significant role in their daily lives and that it could be used to control nature, heal diseases, and protect against evil spirits. Magic was believed to work through the use of spells and rituals, which were often performed by priests and priestesses in temples. These spells could be used for a variety of purposes, including protecting against disease and natural disasters, controlling love and fertility, and ensuring success in battle. One of the most important spells in ancient Egyptian magic was the “Opening of the Mouth” ritual, which was used to “awaken” the senses of a statue or mummy. This was believed to allow the deceased to continue living in the afterlife. Another important aspect of Egyptian magic was the use of amulets and talismans. These were small objects that were believed to have magical powers and were often worn as jewelry or carried on the person. Examples of amulets include the ankh, which symbolized life, and the scarab beetle, which was believed to bring good luck and protection. Egyptian religion and magic were also closely tied to the practice of mummification. Ancient Egyptians believed that preserving the body after death was necessary for the soul to enter the afterlife and live forever. Mummification involved complex rituals and magic spells and was performed by skilled embalmers. One of the most important aspects of Egyptian magic was the use of spells and incantations. These were often written on papyrus scrolls or engraved on amulets and talismans. Magical knowledge was reserved for a select group of people, including priests, scribes, and magicians, who were regarded as having access to special powers and knowledge. Religious festivals were a significant part of Egyptian magical practice. These festivals involved elaborate rituals, processions, and offerings, all designed to please the gods and gain their favor. Some of the most important festivals included the Opet festival, held in honor of the god Amun, and the Sed festival, which celebrated the continued reign of the pharaoh.  Overall, ancient Egyptian religion and magic played a significant role in the daily lives of the people and were deeply ingrained in their culture.