Ammon

Ammon, also known as Amun or Jupiter Ammon, is a deity whose origins trace back to ancient Libya and Ethiopia. Over time, his worship spread to Egypt and other parts of the Mediterranean, including Greece. Here are some key points about Ammon:

Origins and Role

• Libyan and Ethiopian Deity: Ammon was originally worshipped as a god of fertility and the protector of flocks. His name is thought to derive from the Egyptian word “Amoni,” meaning “shepherd” or “to feed”.
• Supreme Divinity: In Egypt, Ammon was identified with the supreme god Amun and became a central figure in Egyptian mythology. The Greeks associated him with Zeus, calling him Zeus Ammon.

Worship and Influence

• Oracle of Siwa: One of the most famous places of worship for Ammon was the oracle at Siwa Oasis in the Libyan desert. This oracle was highly revered and visited by notable figures, including Alexander the Great.
• Symbolism: Ammon was often depicted as a ram or as a man with the head of a ram. This imagery symbolized his role as a protector and leader of flocks.

Myths and Stories

• Heracles and Zeus: According to myth, Heracles sought to see Zeus, who disguised himself with the head of a ram to avoid the meeting. This story highlights Ammon’s association with the ram.
• Cultural Integration: Ammon’s worship was integrated into various cultures, and his image and attributes were adapted to fit local beliefs and practices.

Ammon’s legacy is evident in the numerous temples and shrines dedicated to him, as well as in the lasting impact of his mythology on later cultures.