Departure on Faith

By: Lauren Landry

He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. Hebrew 11:26

Chapter One

Her name was Merneith, which means "Beloved of Neith," named after the ancient Egyptian goddess of war and weaving. Merneith was born into a family of artisans in the bustling city of Memphis. Her family was moderately prosperous, crafting goods that were sought after by the upper echelons of Egyptian society. Her father, Senusret, was a master stonemason known for his skill in carving intricate designs for temples and tombs. Her mother, Hatshepsut, was a renowned weaver whose beautiful textiles were sought after by the wealthy elite. Their household was one where artistry and craftsmanship were deeply valued and passed down through generations.

Merneith grew up with a deep appreciation for the rich culture and traditions of Egypt. She was well-educated for a woman of her time, learning to read and write basic hieroglyphs, and she was familiar with the intricate rituals and gods of the Egyptian pantheon. She often assisted her mother in weaving and developed a keen eye for intricate patterns and designs, reflecting the artistry that surrounded her life. Despite her comfortable upbringing, Merneith was a compassionate soul, always sensitive to the plight of those less fortunate. She often accompanied her father to the bustling markets and workshops, where she saw firsthand the harsh realities faced by slaves and laborers, many of whom were Israelites. Their resilience and faith in the face of such adversity left a profound impression on her.

From a young age, Merneith was immersed in the world of Egyptian art and culture. Her home was filled with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the constant hum of creative activity. She often accompanied her parents to the bustling markets of Memphis, where she marveled at the diversity of goods and people. These experiences instilled in her a love for beauty and a curiosity about the world beyond her own. As a child, Merneith dreamed of becoming a master weaver like her mother. She spent countless hours learning the craft, mastering the loom, and experimenting with dyes and patterns. Her goal was to create textiles that told stories—stories of the gods, of the pharaohs, and of the everyday lives of her people. She aspired to weave tapestries that would hang in the great temples and palaces of Egypt, ensuring her family's legacy.

Merneith had various duties within her household. She assisted her mother with weaving, helping to prepare the threads, and learning the delicate art of creating intricate patterns. She also managed household tasks, ensuring their home was well-kept and welcoming for guests. As the eldest daughter, she took on a nurturing role with her younger siblings, teaching them what she had learned and looking after their well-being.

Merneith's family was tight-knit and supportive. Her father, Senusret, was a kind but firm man who believed in the value of hard work and dedication. He taught Merneith the importance of precision and patience in her craft. Her mother, Hatshepsut, was nurturing and encouraging, always pushing Merneith to strive for excellence. Merneith had two younger brothers, Ankh and Seti, who looked up to her and often sought her guidance.

Her circle of friends included other artisan children she met in the market and at the temple workshops. One of her closest friends was Neferu, the daughter of a potter. Neferu and Merneith spent hours discussing their dreams and ambitions, often collaborating on small projects to combine their skills in pottery and weaving.

Merneith's heritage was deeply rooted in the rich cultural and religious traditions of Egypt. She grew up participating in the annual festivals dedicated to the gods, learning the hymns and prayers that were part of daily life. Her family honored the goddess Neith, the patroness of weaving and war, and Merneith often visited the temple to offer her thanks and seek inspiration for her work. Despite her immersion in Egyptian culture, Merneith was always aware of the diverse community around her. Memphis was a melting pot of different peoples, including many Israelites who were enslaved. Their resilience and faith intrigued her, planting seeds of curiosity that would later grow into a profound spiritual transformation.