Daily Archives: January 25, 2009

Memphis in Egypt

This morning, after a period of worship, we visited the ruins of ancient Memphis. The prophet Ezekiel has this to say about Memphis.

This is what the sovereign LORD says: I will destroy the idols, and put an end to the gods of Memphis. There will no longer be a prince from the land of Egypt; so I will make the land of Egypt fearful.  (Ezekiel 30:13)

The alabaster sphinx of Rameses II  (13th century B.C.) is one of the nicest pieces on display at the site. It is also one of the few artifacts to be seen. The prophecy has surely come to pass.

Alabaster sphinx of Rameses II at Memphis. Photo by Ferrell Jenkins.

Alabaster sphinx of Rameses II at Memphis. Photo by Ferrell Jenkins.

Next we moved to the edge of the desert to visit the tomb of a Nobleman dating to about 2400 B.C., and the Step Pyramid of Zoser.

After lunch we returned to Old Cairo to spend some time in the Coptic Museum and the Abu Sarga church. This is the church associated with the visit of Mary, Jopseph, and Jesus to Egypt (Matthew 2).

The last event of the day, and of the tour, was a felucca ride on the Nile River. The large buildings of down town Cairo are beautiful after sunset.

Cairo on the Nile at Night. Photo by Ferrell Jenkins.

Cairo on the Nile at Night. Photo by Ferrell Jenkins.