Initially, the term "pharaoh," derived from the Egyptian word per ʿaa meaning “great house,” referred to the royal palace in ancient Egypt. Over time, the word transitioned to become a metonym for the Egyptian king, a shift that occurred during the New Kingdom (starting around 1539-1292 BCE) with the 18th dynasty and became standard by the 22nd dynasty.
Here's a breakdown:
- Original Meaning: "Pharaoh" primarily denoted the physical structure of the royal palace.
- Metonymic Shift: The term then expanded to refer to the person who resided in the "great house" - the king himself.
- Timing: This shift happened during the New Kingdom period.
The Evolution of the Term "Pharaoh"
| Stage | Meaning | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Original | Royal Palace (per ʿaa – “great house”) | Early Dynastic Egypt |
| Transitioning | Referencing the king metonymically | New Kingdom (18th dynasty, c. 1539–c. 1292 BCE) |
| Established | Primarily referring to the Egyptian king | 22nd dynasty (c.17-Oct-2024) |
Key Aspects
- Royal Residence: The primary association was a place of power and authority.
- King's Title: It transitioned into a royal title of immense significance.
- Symbolic Representation: Became synonymous with the divine and earthly power of the Egyptian ruler.
In conclusion, while the term 'pharaoh' originated as a reference to the royal palace, it evolved to primarily denote the king of Egypt, embodying both his royal and divine status.
