Early Mentions of ỉtn and their Echoes in Akhenaten’s Doctrine

Early mentions of the lexeme ỉtn from the Old Kingdom to the Second Intermediate Period are listed and discussed in this paper to reevaluate their connection with Akhenaten’s Atenism, the politico-religious doctrine elaborated by the King, centered on his unique god Aten and on the royal persona. Although the early mentions of ỉtn in their polytheistic framework cannot be confused with Akhenaten’s creator god, their importance never superseding the influence of New Kingdom evolving solar faith, it is argued that they offer useful avenues to further our reflection on Akhenaten’s views.