The Luxor Obelisk Unveils Hidden Messages, Revealing Ramses II's Divine Authority

In a groundbreaking discovery, Jean-Guillaume Olette-Pelletier, an Egyptologist and cryptologist at the Catholic University of Paris, found seven hidden inscriptions on the Luxor Obelisk, a 3,300-year-old relic that has stood in Place de la Concorde, Paris, since 1836. Originally erected by Pharaoh Ramses II at Luxor Temple, the obelisk was thought to have revealed all its secrets. However, during renovation work in December 2021, Olette-Pelletier's access to the obelisk allowed for close examination of sections previously unnoticed. What sets these findings apart is the concept of 'crypto-hieroglyphs,' a sophisticated form of writing that conceals additional meanings within the apparent text. By reading the hieroglyphs horizontally instead of the traditional vertical method, Olette-Pelletier was able to identify messages meant for an elite audience, particularly the nobility arriving by boat during significant events like the Opet festival. These messages emphasize both Ramses II's divine connection and the importance of appeasing the gods through offerings. The obelisk cleverly employs what Olette-Pelletier terms 'three-dimensional cryptography,' requiring viewers to walk around the monument to fully comprehend the multifaceted messages. Various inscriptions highlight themes central to Ramses II's reign, including military victories and his absolute sovereignty. This discovery not only adds depth to our understanding of Ramses II's propaganda techniques but also reinforces the ever-evolving narrative of ancient Egyptian history. The Luxor Obelisk, while a significant historical artifact, now emerges as a sophisticated political tool designed to strengthen the pharaoh's reign and divine legitimacy. As Olette-Pelletier prepares to publish his findings in the journal ENiM, it serves as a reminder that even extensively studied historical artifacts can still conceal extraordinary secrets waiting to be uncovered.