Akhenaton e Nefertiti
Olodum
The Solar Couple: Akhenaton and Nefertiti in Olodum's Tribute
Olodum's song "Akhenaton e Nefertiti" delves into the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian history, focusing on the reign of Pharaoh Akhenaton and his queen, Nefertiti. The lyrics recount the significant shift in religious practices initiated by Akhenaton, who moved away from the traditional polytheistic worship of Amon-Ra to establish a monotheistic religion centered around Aton, the sun disk. This radical change is highlighted by the construction of Aketaton, a city dedicated to Aton, which stirred mixed reactions among the Egyptian populace.
The song also touches on the cultural and political landscape of the time, mentioning the city of Karnak, a major religious center dedicated to Amon-Ra. By navigating the Nile with the followers of Aton, Olodum symbolically bridges the ancient past with the present, celebrating the enduring legacy of these historical figures. The mention of Nefertiti, who was not only a queen but also a high priestess, underscores her significant role in this religious transformation.
Furthermore, the lyrics narrate the diplomatic and familial ties between Egypt and neighboring regions, such as the marriage alliance between Amen-Hotep III and the Mitanni princess Taduhepa. This alliance, however, is shrouded in mystery as the princess's fate remains unknown. The song concludes by reflecting on the eventual downfall of Akhenaton's monotheistic empire, influenced by Horehmeb, who reinstated polytheism through Tutankhamun. Olodum draws a parallel between Aton and Olodumaré, suggesting a universal connection between different cultural deities and emphasizing the unity of spiritual beliefs across time and space.