Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Why did Ptolemy III become popular with Egyptian religious leaders?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Ptolemaic dynasty
Head of a queen, marble sculpture possibly made in Egypt, Ptolemaic period (305β30 bce); in the Brooklyn Museum, New York. 14 Γ 12 Γ 11.5 cm.
Ptolemy III Euergetes gained significant popularity with Egyptian religious leaders through several key actions that demonstrated his respect for traditional Egyptian customs and institutions:
- Restoration of Divine Statues: He earned favor by recovering and returning sacred statues of Egyptian gods that had been plundered from temples during the period of Persian rule.12
- Support for Temples: Ptolemy III was a generous patron of the priesthood, providing donations to various temples throughout Egypt and initiating the construction of the great Temple of Horus at Idfu.12
- Religious Recognition: His administration worked closely with the priestly class, as evidenced by the Decree of Canopus. This declaration, issued by a synod of Egyptian priests, honored his family and recognized his contributions to the state and religious life.132
These efforts helped solidify his standing with the native Egyptian elite, who viewed his policies as a restoration of the traditional role of the pharaoh as a protector of the gods and their temples.12