Editing Khonsu (section)

=== Khonsu-Thoth ===
Khonsu-Thoth, a [[Syncretism|syncretic]] deity merging the lunar aspects of Khonsu and [[Thoth]], was venerated in [[Edfu]], [[Philae temple complex|Philae]], and [[Thebes, Egypt|Thebes]]. In the temple of Khonsu in Karnak (also referred to as the Benenet), baboons were housed in a designated district and revered as living embodiments of Khonsu-Thoth. A specialized priesthood cared for these baboons and integrated them into oracle rituals.<ref>Julia, Budka/Mekis, Tamasis (2022). The family of Pa-di-Amun-neb-nesut-tawy from Thebes (TT 414) revisited. Archaeopress Publishing Vol. 42. Oxford: Archaeopress Egyptology. p.19.</ref> Khonsu-Thoth played an important role in several Theban rituals like the Theban New Year ritual for the Confirmation of Royal Power, a ceremony to release  messenger birds, royal offerings to Iah-Lunus, the ritual burnings of the Thoth festival, a symbolic bull race, and the cosmic coronation of Khonsu-Thoth-Iah.<ref>Darnell, John Coleman; Klotz, David; Manassa, Colleen (2012). "Gods on the Road: The Pantheon of Thebes at Qasr el-Ghueita". In Thiers, Christophe (ed.). Documents de Théologies Thébaines Tardives. Université Paul Valéry. p.285.</ref> He filled the role of supreme judge and vizier within the Theban pantheon.<ref>Klotz (2008), pp.116-117.</ref>

The syncretism between Thoth and Khonsu also extended to a fusion of Hathor-within-the-Benenet with [[Seshat]] and [[Maat]], the two traditional consorts of Thoth. An ancient text describes them as the "two divine beings originating from Ra": one symbolizing the embodiment of Ra's contemplative heart and the tongue through which the word is spoken, and the other representing creative thought and the divine word, which brings creation into being.<ref>Goyon,Jean-Claude (2013).''Thèbes : Khonsou, Thot et la monarchie pharaonique après la Troisième Période de Transition. La fête de Thot du 19 du premier mois de l’année et les rites de confirmation du pouvoir royal à Karnak, Edfou et Philean''.In Thiers, Christophe (ed.). Documents de Théologies Thébaines Tardives. Université Paul Valéry.p.40.</ref>