The Hyksos: The Famous Kings of the Fifteenth Dynasty of Egypt

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice.

In the realm of modern Egyptology, the term Hyksos designates the rulers of Egypt's Fifteenth Dynasty, reigning around 1650–1550 BC. These sovereigns held sway from Avaris in the Nile delta, extending their rule from Lower to Middle Egypt, reaching as far as Cusae. Ethnically, the term Hyksos denotes individuals potentially of West Semitic or Levantine origin, as per the Aegyptiaca—a historical account of Egypt composed by the Greco-Egyptian priest and historian Manetho in the 3rd century BC.


While Manetho portrayed the Hyksos as invaders and tyrants, contemporary Egyptology challenges this depiction. Alternatively, the Hyksos era might have followed the presence of Canaanite groups gradually settling in the Nile delta, potentially breaking away from Egypt's faltering and tumultuous governance during the Thirteenth Dynasty.


The Hyksos period marked the first instance of foreign monarchs dominating Egypt. Details of their reign remain elusive, encompassing the extent of their empire and the names and sequence of their rulers.


The Hyksos adopted numerous Levantine and Canaanite customs, alongside Egyptian practices. They are often credited with introducing technological innovations such as the horse and chariot, the sickle sword, and the composite bow, although these claims are subject to debate.