Question

Why were nobles and priests important to ancient Egypt ?

Answer 1

Nobles in Egyptian society were related to the pharaoh, priests, scribes, doctors, lawyers, or important military personnel. Many of the nobles were overseers of the lands worked by peasants. Taxes from these lands were paid to the government in the form of crops or cattle. These crops in turn were used to pay skilled workers and peasants for their labor on governmental project. Ancient Egyptian temples and shrines were very sacred places. Only special people were allowed into the temples: the priests, priestesses and pharaohs. The Pharaoh was revered as the head of the priesthood. Second only to the Pharaoh was the High Priest who carried out the Pharaoh’s religious duties. Priests were rich and powerful, and were ranked with the officers of the state. Priests had many special privileges. They were called by special names, wore special clothing and were allowed to "see" the gods. In ancient Egypt, most priests married and had families.