Myth Debunked: No Authentic Proof that Ramses II Died in the Sea

It has been mistakenly claimed that Ramses II, one of the most iconic rulers in ancient Egypt, met his end in the sea. However, there is no authentic proof to support this assertion. This article aims to clarify the historical facts and debunk this myth, providing reliable information based on archaeological and historical records.

Introduction

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, reigning from 1279 to 1213 BCE. He is renowned for his extensive military campaigns, monumental architecture, and long reign. Despite his significance in Egyptian history, the claim that he died in the sea is a widely circulated yet unfounded myth. This article delves into the historical records and provides evidence to refute this claim.

Ancient Historical Records

Historical records indicate that Ramses II passed away in his palace in the city of Pi-Ramesses, located in the eastern Nile Delta. Historical details further suggest that he was buried in the Valley of the Kings, a royal necropolis in Upper Egypt, which is consistent with the customs of ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Ramses II's death is generally believed to have taken place around 1213 BCE, but the exact circumstances surrounding his death are not detailed in ancient texts. The primary source for information about his death and burial is the Stele of Seti I, a large stone carving that was erected in the temple of Karnak. It commemorates the achievements of Seti I, Ramses II's father, and provides some details about Ramses II's life, including his death.

The Exodus and Pharaoh's Myth

The discrepancy between the myth and reality often arises from confusion with the biblical story of the Exodus. The narrative in the Book of Exodus describes a Pharaoh during the time of the Hebrews' exodus from Egypt, often associated with Ramses II. However, it is essential to differentiate between biblical accounts and historical records. The biblical story is a narrative from religious texts and not a historical account of Ramses II's actual death.

The portrayal of the Pharaoh as leading the army in pursuit of the Israelites and ultimately drowning in the Red Sea is a literary device used in religious texts to convey theological and moral messages. While these stories have provided inspiration and guidance for many over the centuries, they are not definitive historical records.

Archaeological Evidence and Common Sense

Archaeological evidence further supports the conclusion that Ramses II did not die in the sea. Identities of the Pharaohs in the New Kingdom era are well-established through inscriptions, statues, and other artifacts discovered in Egypt and elsewhere. No artifact or archaeological site has been found that suggests Ramses II or any other Pharaoh of his time died in the sea.

Moreover, the idea of a Pharaoh leading an entire army to chase after the Israelites is a common military strategy. Pharaoh would have been a leader of the army and would almost certainly have been present to oversee such an operation. The parting of the Red Sea, a significant event in the Bible, is another instance that can be explained through biblical context rather than historical accuracy.

In the context of the Bible, God is depicted as a supreme force capable of altering natural laws and performing miracles, as in the parting of the Red Sea. The narrative of the Exodus serves as a reminder of divine intervention and has enduring spiritual significance rather than being a literal historical account.

Conclusion

There is no authentic proof or credible historical evidence that Ramses II died in the sea. The death and burial of Ramses II are well-documented in ancient texts and supported by archaeological findings. The myth of his sea death is a misunderstanding or exaggeration rooted in biblical narratives, which, while significant, are not meant to be taken as verifiable historical records.