Who is Aten?

"Aten" is a term used by Akhnaten and Atenists of ancient Egypt denoting the "circle around the sun;" this word reminds Atenists of God's sovereign power throughout the universe and how His power and strength is likened to the brightness of the sun - one of the most powerful physical objects known to humankind.

The representation of Aten is found in the symbol shown above. A golden circle with several hands reaching down to bestow blessing on the individual. In the lower part of the circle the symbol of life is shown. Some versions of the circle show several hands and sometimes with the symbol of life in each hand (again, showing life being granted). Not all versions of the Aten symbol have the same number of hands.

The word "Aten" has a linguistic similarity with the ancient Hebrew word "Adon" which means "Lord." When appended with the word "ha" (as in "ha-Adon") it can be translated as "Sovereign Lord," as in Yahweh.

The symbol is not an object of worship within orthodox Atenism but a physical reminder of the power and unfailing presence of the Godhead, day or night.

Homage to you, who has come into being, the Creator of all the mighty beings.
You, O Aten, rise, You shine; You who are crowned King of the gods,
make bright the presence of our Mother.

The land receives You, O Aten, with content;
the people who are mindful of righteousness, truth and justice embrace you
at Your rising and at Your setting.
Your people sing of Your splendour, and power, and victory,
You who sit in the Horizon.
(A Hymn to the Lord When He Rises in the Eastern Part of Heaven)

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