Sobekneferu

Sobekneferu is an ancient Egyptian name, often considered a variant reading of Neferusobek. The name comes from Egyptian nfrw-sbk, meaning 'beauty of Sobek', the crocodile god. Sobekneferu was the first confirmed female pharaoh of Egypt, ruling as the last king of the Twelfth Dynasty during the Middle Kingdom, around the 18th century BC.

Historical Context

Sobekneferu ruled for a brief period of three years, ten months, and twenty-four days, as recorded in the Turin Canon. She succeeded her presumed brother and husband, Amenemhat IV, though the exact relationship remains unconfirmed. Reigning in the late 18th century BC, she was the final monarch of the Twelfth Dynasty. Her reign marked a transition period, after which Egypt entered the Second Intermediate Period.

Notable Bearers

Sobekneferu is distinctly known for adopting the full royal titulary, formerly exclusive to male pharaohs, modifying it to acknowledge her femininity. She used titles such as 'daughter of Re' and 'female Horus'. She also broke tradition by associating herself with the crocodile god Sobek in her nomen, and by incorporating Sobek into her praenomen, making her the first Egyptian ruler to do so. Sobek gained prominence as a deity during the Twelfth Dynasty, and Neferusobek means 'beauty of Sobek', reinforcing the link.

Facts Summary

• Meaning: A variant of Neferusobek, meaning 'beauty of Sobek'
• Origin: Ancient Egyptian
• Usage: Ancient Egyptian, primarily female
• Type of bearer: Historical female pharaoh
• Notable regions: Ancient Egypt