Skip to content

Passage of time Quote by Norman F. Cantor

“[Egyptian] advances in medicine, however, as well as in other areas of science, were limited to their attempts to solve the problems confronting them. They did not attempt to probe into the realm of theory. "History for the Egyptians was the cyclic recurrence of the elements of the divine eternal…” quote by Norman F. Cantor
Download Open image
““[Egyptian] advances in medicine, however, as well as in other areas of science, were limited to their attempts to solve the problems confronting them. They did not attempt to probe into the realm of theory. "History for the Egyptians was the cyclic recurrence of the elements of the divine eternal order. Just as the land was reborn each year, so the pharaoh who died and became Osiris was reborn in Horus, his son and successor. The passage of time was marked by the succession of pharaohs, who were grouped into dynasties and numbered.””

Norman F. Cantor

About This Quote

Source Book: The History of the Medieval World, 1997

Egyptian scholars focused on practical problem‑solving rather than theoretical inquiry, viewing history as a cyclical divine order tied to pharaohs and dynasties.

In simple terms: Egyptians emphasized practical solutions over theory, seeing history as cyclical.

Key Takeaway

Balance practical work with theoretical exploration.

Themes

history science practicality theory

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • educational curricula
  • cultural analysis

Key Concepts

ancient Egyptian worldview cyclical time

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies integrate theory and practice?
  • What are the benefits of a cyclical view of history?
A Different Perspective

The view may limit scientific advancement by neglecting abstract thinking.

3.3 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Norman F. Cantor

Explore all 44 Norman F. Cantor quotes

More Passage of time quotes

Browse all 307 Passage of time quotes