The Egyptian myth of Isis and the seven scorpions - Alex Gendler

TED-Ed2 minutes read

Isis, fleeing from her brother Set, took shelter in a cottage with her son Horus protected by giant scorpions from Serket. When a scorpion stung a woman's son, Isis healed him with magic, leading to the community learning to treat scorpion bites with incantations.

Insights

  • Isis, using her magical powers to heal the wealthy woman's son stung by a scorpion, showcases her benevolence and ability to bring about positive change through her extraordinary abilities.
  • The transformation of the community's response to scorpion bites from fear to utilizing magical incantations highlights the influence of Isis in not only individual lives but also in shaping societal practices and beliefs.

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Recent questions

  • How did Isis protect her son from the scorpion sting?

    Isis used her magical powers to neutralize the poison from the scorpion sting that her son received.

  • Who guarded Isis and her son in the humble cottage?

    Isis and her son were guarded by seven giant scorpions sent by the goddess Serket while they sought refuge in the humble cottage.

  • What led to the wealthy woman's repentance in the story?

    The wealthy woman's son was stung by one of the scorpions guarding Isis, which led to Isis using her magical powers to heal him. This act of kindness and power led to the woman's repentance.

  • How did the community learn to treat scorpion bites?

    After witnessing Isis using magical incantations to heal the wealthy woman's son from a scorpion sting, the community learned to treat scorpion bites with similar magical methods.

  • Why was Isis hiding from her brother Set?

    Isis was hiding from her brother Set, a powerful and dangerous god, to protect herself and her son Horus from his wrath and harm.

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Summary

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Isis protects son from scorpion sting

  • Isis, the powerful goddess in hiding from her brother Set, sought refuge in a humble cottage with her son Horus, guarded by seven giant scorpions sent by the goddess Serket.
  • When one of the scorpions stung the wealthy woman's son who had turned them away, Isis used her magical powers to neutralize the poison, leading to the woman's repentance and the community learning to treat scorpion bites with magical incantations.
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