Harpokrates (Horus the child, the infant Horus) In Egyptian mythology, Greek name for the Egyptian Heru-p-khart, a form of the god Horus. He was often portrayed with the sidelock of youth and wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. His index finger is held to his lips, which the Greeks misinterpreted as a symbol of his discretion. They called Harpokrates the god of silence as a result of this mistake. Sometimes Harpokrates is shown being suckled by his mother, Isis.
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Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow– Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante