Cedar

The Cedar in Ancient Egypt


 * Egyptian Name:**

//Meru//


 * Hieroglyphics:**



Imported to ancient Egypt from Syria and Lebanon, the Lebanon Cedar was valued for its straightness and was used to make temple flagpoles and sea-worthy barques in addition to coffins, boxes, dowels, and shrines. King Snefru sent 40 barques into Byblos to collect cedar wood. According to myths, the cedar protected the body of Osiris, and the cedar was known as //Nht Hnmt Ntr// ("The Tree That Encloses the God.") The resin was also used in mummification. 328 logs of cedar incense are recorded as part of a royal offering to the temples.

The Trees of Ancient Egypt