Sacred Lake

Temple of Hathor, Dendera (plan)

This view from the temple roof looks down towards the sacred lake, whose water has long since drained away. Sacred lakes were a standard part of New Kingdom temples, and represented the primordial lake of creation. They were used for priestly ablutions and the other water needs of the temple. A concern for ritual and practical cleanliness is found everywhere, of course, from the tanks of India and Southeast Asia to the baths of Rome.