Imhotep Ancient Teacher

What makes a great teacher? This question resonates as I consider the virtues that shape the qualities and characteristics of the great ancient instructors. In the following reflection I will be writing about the story of a “great teacher” before 500BCE, and what attracts me most about his or her image.

Imhotep was considered one of the great teachers of antiquity. His versatility and knowledge was considered second to known. With skills in architecture, medicine, poetry, writing, sciences, religion, and administration he embodied wisdom and understanding. His ingenuity and character enabled him to rise to the top of the aristocratic pyramid of history, and for many years was considered a deity figure. It was not until the end of the nineteenth century that he was established and considered a real historical being.

Imhotep religious beliefs also paralleled his knowledge and wisdom. A “master” teacher, a student of theology, and a scholar of moral behavior won him the title “hereditary noble”. By respecting the “Gods" and not considering himself a deity provoked and inspired him to build the first pyramid of Egypt and achieve an eternal place in Egyptian history. Learning and mastering large amounts of information and performing unmatched skills gave him advantages that others only fathom to achieve. With the belt of nobility around his waist, Imhotep mirrored the image of a skilled and wise noble.

Looking closer at the elements that personified this renowned individual, we can safely contend that his mastery, competence, versatility, and virtuous character had its place in forming a bright and successful future. Imhotep’s names has echoed through time, and are titled the “great builder”, the “chief carpenter”, and the one under the king”. For in all of these, we see that prestige and honor followed his legacy.

Like Imhotep, I do not intend on achieving a form of deification (by any means), but a respect and place amongst my colleagues and generation. I value the work and personification of excellence by which he lived and pursued. Earning the title “Master” doesn’t necessarily have an inferior connotation, but one of respect and competence. Being a student of life and pursuing knowledge is my ultimate goal, and learning a little bit about everything wouldn’t hurt. For I noticed that versatility, wisdom, humility, and competence has its place in the academic and real world. I am encouraged to believe that “one can do all things” if you have the hunger to learn, the humility to be instructed, and the perseverance to endure.