Metaphysical Properties

In ancient Egyptian mythology, Maat was the goddess who personified truth, justice, balance, and order. The concept of maat was central to Egyptian culture and morality. 

Symbolism

Maat was often depicted as a young woman with an ostrich feather on her head, representing truth. The feather was also used in the ceremony of weighing the hearts of the dead to test conformity to proper values. 

Role in society

Maat was believed to regulate the stars, seasons, and the actions of humans and gods. The king was expected to ensure that maat was maintained in the world. Priests represented Maat, acting as her spokesperson and judges of crimes. 

Moral foundation

Maat was the ethical and moral foundation of the Egyptian people. The doctrine of maat was expressed in the 42 negative affirmations listed in the Papyrus of Ani. 

Opposites

Maat's ideological opposite was Isfet, meaning injustice, chaos, violence, or to do evil. 

Other names

Maat is also spelled Mayet