Machimoi

Egyptian army

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June 30, 2026

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The term "Machimoi" refers to the common people or freemen in ancient Egypt, who formed the bulk of the population and were eligible for military service. While not a distinct "army" in the modern sense, these individuals constituted the soldiery when needed. Their role was primarily to support the king, who was considered divine and responsible for maintaining order. The Egyptian military structure evolved over time, with early forces being more like local militias. By the New Kingdom, a more organized military emerged, but the common people remained a crucial component of any military undertaking.1

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ancient Egypt
The Late period (664–332 bce)
…soldiers, whom the Greeks called Machimoi (“Warriors”), and Greek and Carian mercenaries, who formed part of the great emigration from the Aegean in the 7th and 6th centuries bce. Greek pirates raiding the Nile delta coast were induced by Psamtik I to serve in his army and were settled like…
Read More
…soldiers, whom the Greeks called Machimoi (“Warriors”), and Greek and Carian mercenaries, who formed part of the great emigration from the Aegean in the 7th and 6th centuries bce. Greek pirates raiding the Nile delta coast were induced by Psamtik I to serve in his army and were settled like…
Read More