When did Egyptian mythology originate?

Egyptian mythology has very ancient origins, dating back to around 3100 BCE, when Upper and Lower Egypt were unified under the first pharaoh. However, many of the beliefs and mythological figures developed over thousands of years, even before this date, during the Predynastic cultures (around 4000-3100 BCE).

Egyptian gods, such as Ra, Osiris, Isis, and Horus, played a central role in religious beliefs, and the mythology itself served to explain natural cycles, like the rising of the sun and rebirth after death. Over time, the mythology evolved through various dynasties, also influencing other aspects of ancient Egyptian cultural and religious life.