Khufu

Khufu is the shortened form of the longer Egyptian name Khnum-Khufu, meaning 'Khnum protects me.' This name belonged to a pharaoh of the 4th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt, who reigned during the 26th century BC (early Old Kingdom period). He is best known as the builder of the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and is also referred to by the Greek form Cheops.

Historical Context

Khufu succeeded his father Sneferu as the second pharaoh of the 4th Dynasty. His reign is generally dated to around 2589–2566 BC, though exact years vary. The Great Pyramid of Giza, his most enduring achievement, was the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. Despite this monumental legacy, many aspects of Khufu's reign remain poorly documented. The only completely preserved portrait of him is a small ivory figurine found at Abydos in 1903; all other statues and reliefs survive only in fragments.

Notable Bearers

Khufu is a key figure in the Westcar Papyrus, a literary text from the 13th Dynasty that recounts stories set during his court. He also appears in the works of ancient historians such as Manetho, Diodorus, and Herodotus, who passed on a conflicting legacy—some describing him as a wise ruler, others as harsh and impious.

Linguistic and Cultural Significance

Both the full and shortened forms of the name were used during his lifetime, reflecting a common Egyptian naming practice of the period. The Greek equivalent Cheops was used by later classical historians. The name embodies the religious and protective symbolism of the god Khnum, connecting the pharaoh to divine guardianship.

• Meaning: 'Khnum protects me' (shortened from Khnum-Khufu)
• Origin: Ancient Egyptian
• Type: first name (pharaoh name)
• Usage Regions: Ancient Egypt