Atenism

Atenism was an ancient Egyptian religious reform initiated by Pharaoh Akhenaten around 1350 BCE. It centered on the worship of Aten, the sun disk, as the sole divine entity, replacing the traditional pantheon of gods. This monotheistic shift emphasized the sun's importance, promoting a personal connection with Aten. The reform aimed to consolidate religious and political power, challenging established religious authorities. After Akhenaten’s reign, Egypt reverted to traditional polytheism. Atenism is notable as one of the earliest known instances of monotheism, influencing later religious developments and highlighting how political rulers can shape spiritual beliefs.