Story Summary
Explore the legend of The Princess of Bakhtan, an ancient Egyptian tale of possession, divine healing, and the power of the god Khonsu to cast out spirits.
Pharaoh Ramses II, while receiving tribute from the princes of distant lands, was captivated by the eldest daughter of the Prince of Bakhtan. He married her, naming her Neferu-Ra, and brought her to Egypt. Years later, a messenger arrived from Bakhtan with dire news: the Queen’s younger sister, Bentresh, had fallen victim to a mysterious illness that no physician could cure. Ramses first sent a wise scribe, but he found the girl possessed by a spirit far beyond his power. In desperation, the Pharaoh appealed to the god Khonsu the Executor of Plans. A majestic statue of the god was dispatched on a year-and-a-half journey to Bakhtan. Upon arrival, Khonsu’s divine presence immediately cast out the spirit. The spirit, acknowledging the god's power, agreed to depart if a great feast was held in its honor. The Prince of Bakhtan was so moved by the miracle that he kept the statue for nearly four years, hoping to retain its protection. Only after a dream of the god flying back to Egypt as a golden hawk did the Prince finally allow the statue to return home to Thebes.
The Moral
True healing often requires faith and divine intervention when human knowledge reaches its limits.
“The spirit departed in peace to the place it desired, for the god Khonsu had triumphed.”
Fun Fact
The Bentresh Stela, where this story is recorded, was intentionally carved to look much older than it actually was to give the legend more authority and prestige.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Princess of Bakhtan?
The story teaches that spiritual ailments require spiritual solutions and that human science has limits. It also highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring the divine forces that provide aid.
Which Egyptian god heals the princess?
The princess is healed by Khonsu, specifically in his form as Khonsu-pa-ir-sekher, or 'Khonsu the Executor of Plans.' He was a moon god associated with healing and the expulsion of evil spirits.
Is the story of the Princess of Bakhtan historically accurate?
While it names Ramses II, the story is found on the Bentresh Stela, which is considered a 'pious fraud' or historical fiction. It was likely written centuries later by priests to promote the temple of Khonsu.
How did the spirit agree to leave Bentresh?
The spirit was not simply banished; it negotiated with the god Khonsu. It agreed to leave the princess peacefully provided that a grand banquet was prepared in its honor by the Prince of Bakhtan.
Why did the Prince of Bakhtan keep the statue for four years?
The Prince was so impressed by the god's power to heal his daughter that he wished to keep the divine protection within his own borders forever, fearing the return of the illness.
What caused the Prince to return the statue to Egypt?
The Prince had a prophetic dream where he saw the god exit his shrine in the form of a golden hawk and fly toward Egypt. He took this as a sign that the god no longer wished to stay in Bakhtan.