ABSTRACT
There is debate as to whether the Babylonians or Egyptians were the first true astronomers, 1 but there is little doubt concerning the Egyptians’ medical skills. 2 Homer is quoted as saying that the doctors of Egypt “are skilled beyond all men.” The Persian kings of antiquity, Cyrus and Darius, both used Egyptian physicians. The Edwin Smith and Ebers Papyri provide evidence of ancient Egyptians studying both surgery and medicine. 3 This medical education often took place at the various temples where herbal gardens were kept and physicians practiced. The temple priests were both astronomers and physicians. Included in the medical papyri are herbal therapies, prayers, chants and spells. Incantations were commonly accepted “medical” therapies used by both physicians and temple priests.
