White (hedj)

The "colour" white represented purity and omnipotence. White was also seen as the opposite of red, because of the latter´s association with rage and chaos, and so the two were often paired to symbolize completeness. It was particularly associated with symbolic religious objects and tools, many of which were made of white alabaster. The holy city of Memphis was also known as "Ineb hedj" which is generally translated as "White Walls", and white garments and sandals were worn to holy ceremonies.

Alabaster was highly prized by the Egyptians because of it´s beautiful shimmering white colour. As a result, it was often used for ritual items such as the canopic chest.

The word "hedj" represents both white and silver. Silver was very highly prized in Egypt, and fairly scarce. It was very popular in pharonic jewellery, when it was available, and was known as "white gold" (nub hedj). Silver and gold together represented the moon and sun respectively. White paint was made from chalk or gypsum which were plentiful in Egypt.

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