|
|
Shoshenq 1
Other spellings: Sheshonk, Shoshenq, Shishak
King of Ancient Egypt (945- 924 BCE), founder and 1st ruler of the 22nd Dynasty.
Shoshenq was a Libyan chief, with the title "Great Chief of the Meshwesh". Shoshenq appears to have taken control over the throne of Tanis. It is believed that prior to this, Libyans had taken over much of control over Egypt and virtually all of the army.
Shoshenq settled at Bubastis. Although Shoshenq was the nephew of the late king Osorkon the Elder, but in order to create legitimacy and continuation from the 21st Dynasty, he had his son Osorkon 1 married to one of King Psusennes 2's daughters, Maatkara.
Shoshenq proved to be an active and strong ruler. He sought to oppress the divisions that established themselves from bad governance in the 21st Dynasty. He reestablished much of the authority of the kingship, and reduced the importance of the high priests. He made his son Iuput new High priest of Amon at Karnak.
Shoshenq conducted an expansionist foreign policy. He is especially remembered for his activity in the Levant, and won victories here, which he celebrated with reliefs and inscriptions at Karnak. Here he also started on a project to build a great court for the Temple of Amon. The Bubastite Portal is one of few parts completed.
He died not long after his return to Egypt, and was succeed by his son Osorkon 1.
© Copyright 1996-2008 LookLex Ltd. All rights reserved
By: Tore Kjeilen
|
|
|
