The mystery of the Great pyramid : traditions concerning it and its connection with the Egyptian Book of the dead : with numerous illustrations

MYSTERY OF THE GREAT PYRAMID

So extensively, in fact, did the ancient Egyptians adopt the principal dimensions of the Great Pyramid when compiling their fictitious systems of chronology, that the external form and measurements of that edifice, together with the units employed, could be reconstructed entirely from the Dynastological Lists of the Egyptians. In other words, had the Great Pyramid disappeared like all the other Seven Wonders of the world, it would still have been possible to restore it externally. The arrangement of its internal passages, however, would probably have been conjectural only, though the allegorical pyramid of the Book of the Dead affords a clue. Such use as the Egyptians made of the Pyramid’s measurements was unsystematic in manner, showing they were largely guided by tradition only.

Khufu commenced his pyramid (that is, actual construction, preliminary work being undertaken during the reign of Shaaru (Surid)—hence the Coptic tradition connecting him with the Great Pyramid—and while co-regent with Seneferu) on coming to the throne on the death of Seneferu, and while Surid was still alive, in 2645 B.c. This year for Khufu agrees with Professor Langdon’s chronology for the date of Menes quoted above. Work was continued after the death of Surid, during the sole reign of Khufu, and was completed during his co-regency with his brother Khum-Khufu, as is shown by the latter’s name appearing alongside that of Khufu himself on the ceiling beams of the so-called construction-chambers over the King’s Chamber, and who afterwards ascended the throne as Khafra in 2622 B.C. Herodotus, who got his information from the priests, tells us that ten years were spent on preliminary work, and twenty on the Pyramid itself ; this means it was completed