Himan Atonu. Amenofis IV. / Ehnaton (1353.-1336. pr. Kr.)
The Hymn to Aton by pharaon Amen-hotep IV

Summary/Abstract: The author brings out his translation into Croatian of the Hymn to Aton by Pharaoh Amen-hotep IV or Ehnaton from mid fourteenth century B. C. who built his new capital in the place now known as archeological site of Tell al Amarna. Relying on modern scholars who interpret the Old Testament in the light of Israel’s unique monotheism and literature of Ancient Near East, the author draws attention of his readers to parallels between this hymn in honor of Aton as sun divinity of Egypt and Psalm 104 where God the Creator is being praised. Due to similar expressions and ideas in these two ancient texts, modern Bible scholars admit that the author of Psalm 104 may have know the text of Hymn to Aton. Ehnaton’s hymn reflects state monotheism of this pharaoh who used his political power to spread the cult of Aton as one God of united Egypt. Aton is the good and mighty Ra who creates and sustains the world. In comparing Ehnaton and Moses, this author points out that they are similar in fighting polytheism and idolatry, but Ehnaton does not reject an existence of other gods while Moses believes that other gods do not exist and that Yahweh is a goel (redeemer) of Israel. In the Old Testament the sun is only God’s creature. Similarities between Ehnaton’s and Moses’ monotheism reflect Israel’s sojourn in Egypt.

• Details
• Contents