The king, or pharaoh, was not only the ruler of Egypt but he was also a god. In fact, he was several gods. As ruler, he was linked with the royal god Horus. Sometimes, he was seen as the sun god Ra. After his death, he became joined with Osiris, god of the dead.
Everything the god-king said or did was important. His life was a long series of ceremonies. The simplest act, such as washing his face, was performed as a religious act. Every little incident had a meaning. If the pharaoh had a headache, it meant bad luck for the whole kingdom.
(A) TRIBUTE
Rulers of smaller countries recognised the king of Egypt as their overlord. They sent him tributes - expensive gifts - as a sign of loyalty.
(B) ATTENDANTS
The king was attended by scribes, courtiers, his family, priests, and sometimes the governors of the provinces.
(C) VIZIER
The most powerful man after the king was the vizier, or chief minister.
(D) PHARAOH
The power of the pharaoh had no limit. He owned the whole country. He decided what was right and wrong, and his word was law.
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