The Origin and Evolution of the Cult of the God Montu in the Fourth Nome of Upper Egypt -From the Old Kingdom to the New Kingdom-

This study traces the origins and development of the worship of the god Montu in the Fourth Nome of Upper Egypt, encompassing the cities of Armant, Medamud, and Tod. It covers the period from Montu’s earliest attestations in the Old Kingdom (Dynasties 3–6) to the decline of his cult in the New Kingdom (Dynasties 18–20).Through an analysis of archaeological inscriptions, religious texts, and material evidence, the research explores Montu’s evolution from a local deity to a prominent regional god closely tied to royal authority, particularly during the Eleventh Dynasty. The earliest references to Montu appear in inscriptions from the reign of Djoser (3rd Dynasty), notably without the divine determinative, suggesting an initial phase in his theological identity. He later appears in the Pyramid Texts as a divine companion of the king in the afterlife. By the end of the Old Kingdom, his association with Armant is evident, supported by inscriptions indicating an organized priesthood. Montu's cult flourished during the Middle Kingdom, with priestly titles such as “Montu, Lord of Thebes” emerging. His name became integral to royal titulary—e.g., Mentuhotep—highlighting his role in political legitimacy. His temples expanded in Tod and Medamud, and several priests are documented in contemporary inscriptions. During the New Kingdom, Montu’s prominence waned in favor of Amun, though he retained a symbolic role as a god of war, especially under Thutmose III and Ramesses II. The study underscores the Fourth Nome’s importance as a religious hub and reflects how Montu’s cult evolved in response to Egypt’s shifting political and theological landscape.