The Hidden One. Amun, whose name means "the hidden one," was originally associated with the area of Thebes. When Theban families rose to prominence and became the rulers of all Egypt, first in Dynasty 12 (circa 1938-1759 B.C.E.), and again in Dynasty 18 (circa 1539-1295/1292 B.C.E.), Amun's power and influence also increased. As the Dynasty 18 kings expanded Egypt's empire into Asia, they attributed their successes to Amun's blessings and rewarded his priesthood accordingly. Eventually, Amun joined with Re and rose to become the state god of Egypt, known as Amun-Re, king of the gods, lord of the thrones of the two lands. During the Third Intermediate Period (circa 1075-656 B.C.E.) the priesthood of Amun at Thebes became the virtual rulers of southern Egypt, and one of the most important priestly offices was that of God's Wife of Amun.

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