Many Domestic Cult and Magic Priests, aimed in large part on protecting the home and its inhabitants from harm, required literate or learned individuals to perform the appropriate rites. Hence, priests were often called upon to serve in this capacity. Lector-priests, with their specialized knowledge of religious texts, were the principal practitioners of apotropaic magic. They also appear to have been consulted in times of medical emergencies, as the Old Kingdom biography of Wash-ptah attests. A group of men identified as hkyw ("magicians") appears in association with the House of Life. Both lector-priests and physicians (swnw) also held specialized titles associated with specific types of magic, such as "Scorpion Charmer." Along with written and spoken prayers, these Domestic Cult and Magic Priests were familiar with, and able to produce, the correct amulets for protection and talismans for blessing.
In the end, the Domestic Cult and Magic Priests played an important role in protecting homes and individuals.
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