Kemetic Orthodoxy

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Kemetic Orthodoxy is a modern religious movement based on the reconstruction of ancient Egyptian religion known as Kemeticism.[1] It was founded in 1988 by Tamara Siuda, who until 2023 was recognized as the leader of the movement, called its "Nisut" or "Pharaoh".[2][3][4]

Although named "Kemetic Orthodoxy", Siuda considers it a cultic concept rather than a revealed religion. Followers prioritize the practice of "correct" action, rituals, and liturgy rather than adhering to a specific scripture.[5] Worship often takes place in both public and personal shrines.[6] The main temple is located in Joliet, Illinois,[7] and various state shrines are maintained by priests worldwide.[5]

The faith is guided by five fundamental principles: upholding ma'at (cosmic order), belief in Netjer (the supreme being), veneration of akhu (ancestors), participation in and respect for the community, and acknowledgment of Siuda as the Nisut.[2] Practitioners of the faith are known as "Shemsu".[8]

Kemetic Orthodoxy has attracted attention from sociologists and Egyptologists for its size, prominence on the internet, and its influence on Kemeticism as a whole. Many other Kemetic groups have emerged from or defined themselves in relation to it.[5] The presence of a central authority and emphasis on tradition within Kemetic Orthodoxy sets it apart from other predominantly online-organized religions[9] and challenges early theories about the nature of religion on the internet.[10]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference What is was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ a b Chryssides, George D. (2012). Historical Dictionary of New Religious Movements. Rowman & Littlefield. p. 197.
  3. ^ Cite error: The named reference Krogh 2004, p.168 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ Siuda, Rev Dr Tamara L. "Year 31 Letter - This Website is now an Archive". Retrieved 2023-08-17.
  5. ^ a b c Harrison, Paul (2018). Profane Egyptologists: The Modern Revival of Ancient Egyptian Religion. Taylor and Francis.
  6. ^ Cite error: The named reference Internet was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  7. ^ "Tawy House Kemetic Orthodox Retreat & Conference Center".
  8. ^ "Membership | Kemet.org". www.kemet.org.
  9. ^ Cite error: The named reference :1 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  10. ^ Dawson, L. 2000. Researching religion in cyberspace: issues and strategies. In Religion on the Internet: Research prospects and promises, edited by J.K. Hadden and D. E. Cowan, 25-54. Vol. 8 in Religion and the Social Order