The ideology of power in the inscriptions on Queen Hatshepsut’s obelisks in the religious and political context of the new kingdom

This research analyzes the ideology of power of Queen Hatshepsut through the inscription on a preserved obelisk located in Karnak. The author provides a detailed examination of the text, revealing the religious and political contexts of Hatshepsut’s reign, particularly her role as a female pharaoh in a patriarchal society. The inscription plays a key role in shaping the ideological legitimacy of her rule, emphasizing her divine origin and the support of the gods, particularly Amun. Additionally, it contributes to consolidating her authority among the Egyptian elite and the general population. An essential aspect of the study is the author’s translation of the original text, which allows for a closer examination of the language and a more nuanced interpretation of the inscription within the social-political conditions of the time. The paper also explores the influence of this obelisk on later monuments of Queen Hatshepsut and the role of her ideology in strengthening her power. As a result, the work offers new interpretations of ancient texts and provides a modern understanding of the political and religious legitimation of pharaonic rule. An essential aspect of the study is the author’s translation of the original text, which allows for a closer examination of the language and a more nuanced interpretation of the inscription within the social-political conditions of the time. The paper also explores the influence of this obelisk on later monuments of Queen Hatshepsut and the role of her ideology in strengthening her power. As a result, the work offers new interpretations of ancient texts and provides a modern understanding of the political and religious legitimation of pharaonic rule.