Eye of Horus vs. Eye of Ra

Attribute	Eye of Horus	Eye of Ra
Symbol	Eye symbol representing protection, royal power, and good health	Eye symbol representing the sun god Ra, protection, and power
Origin	Ancient Egyptian symbol associated with the god Horus	Ancient Egyptian symbol associated with the god Ra
Meaning	Protection, health, and power	Protection, power, and the sun
Depiction	Eye with markings resembling a falcon's eye	Eye with markings resembling a sun disk

Origins

The Eye of Horus and the Eye of Ra are two distinct symbols from ancient Egyptian mythology. The Eye of Horus, also known as the Wadjet eye, is associated with Horus, the sky god and son of Osiris and Isis. It is believed to represent protection, royal power, and good health. On the other hand, the Eye of Ra, also known as the Udjat eye, is associated with Ra, the sun god and one of the most important deities in Egyptian mythology. It is believed to symbolize the sun, light, and power.

Symbolism

Both the Eye of Horus and the Eye of Ra are powerful symbols with deep meanings in Egyptian mythology. The Eye of Horus is often seen as a symbol of protection, healing, and restoration. It is also associated with the concept of sacrifice and resurrection, as Horus lost his eye in a battle with his uncle Set, only to have it restored by the god Thoth. On the other hand, the Eye of Ra is seen as a symbol of power, light, and the sun. It is believed to have the ability to ward off evil and protect the wearer from harm.

Depictions

While both the Eye of Horus and the Eye of Ra are depicted as eyes, they have distinct differences in their appearance. The Eye of Horus is often depicted as a human eye with markings that resemble the markings of a falcon, which is the sacred animal of Horus. It is also sometimes shown with a teardrop shape below the eye, representing the lost eye of Horus. On the other hand, the Eye of Ra is often depicted as a sun disk with a uraeus, or cobra, emerging from it. This symbolizes the protective power of Ra and his ability to ward off evil.

Meanings

Both the Eye of Horus and the Eye of Ra have deep symbolic meanings in Egyptian mythology. The Eye of Horus is often associated with protection, healing, and restoration. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil and bring good health to the wearer. On the other hand, the Eye of Ra is associated with power, light, and the sun. It is believed to have the ability to protect the wearer from harm and bring prosperity and success.

Usage

The Eye of Horus and the Eye of Ra have been used in various ways in ancient Egyptian culture. The Eye of Horus was often used as an amulet or talisman to protect the wearer from harm and bring good health. It was also used in funerary rituals to ensure the protection of the deceased in the afterlife. On the other hand, the Eye of Ra was often used as a symbol of power and protection by pharaohs and other rulers. It was also used in religious ceremonies to invoke the blessings of Ra.