Summary of Behutet: The Warrior Within

I. Overview

This summary analyzes "Behutet: The Warrior Within," a complex narrative that interweaves elements of ancient Egyptian (Kamitic) cosmology, spirituality, and modern urban life. The story centers on Ra Heru Khuti, a character seemingly destined to play a significant role in a cosmic battle against forces of chaos and oppression represented by "Sethe." The narrative blends historical and mythical elements with a contemporary setting, addressing themes of identity, heritage, spiritual awakening, and the struggle against systemic evil. The text also incorporates aspects of Gullah culture, African diaspora experiences, and the pervasive influence of ancient wisdom traditions.

II. Main Themes and Ideas

• Ancient Wisdom & Black Civilizations: The document emphasizes the origin of civilization's fundamental skills and institutions in Black nations such as Kamit (ancient Egypt), Sumer, Babylon, Elam, the Harappa Valley civilization, Kush (Ethiopia), Indus Kush (Black India) and Canaan. The author posits that this is because these cultures were able to learn from "the internal part of being, with its storehouse of knowledge," allowing them to intuitively understand and develop these skills 6000+ years ago. In contrast, Western cultures, focused on the "external part of his being," had to learn these skills from others.
  • Quote: "Now we can understand why, for example, all the fundamental skills and institutions of civilization began with Black nations...Because of their people's ability to learn from the internal part of being... they were able to intuit, 6000+ years ago, the knowledge that forms the basis of our civilization... Because Western man is polarized in the cultivation of the external part of his being, he had to learn these skills from others (Blacks and Orientals) who were able to learn these things intuitively."
• Spiritual Initiation and the "Inner Warrior": The story is deeply rooted in a spiritual journey, particularly through the lens of Kamitic spirituality. The character Ra Heru Khuti is on a path of initiation, facing numerous trials (symbolized by the "Merti snake" and other obstacles) that force him to confront his fears, his past, and his destiny. This concept of "Behutet" is central to understanding the goal of inner transformation and the fight against negative conditioning. The narrative portrays a transformation of the self into a warrior against evil, linking internal change with external action.
• Ra Heru Khuti's Destiny: Ra Heru Khuti is a key figure with a significant destiny, identified as a Shemsu Heru. He appears to have inherited a role in protecting the "Papyrus Am Tuat," an ancient document containing sacred knowledge, which is being sought by Sethe and his allies.
• Sethe and the Forces of Oppression: Sethe is depicted as a malevolent force, representing evil, chaos, and control. His influence permeates various levels of society, and he seems to be operating on a global scale. He’s described as someone who "caused wars, killing millions and leaving millions ravaged...created chaos and misery... invented new financial crimes"
• The Papyrus Am Tuat: This ancient document is central to the narrative. It is presented as a source of immense spiritual power and knowledge, the key to understanding the ancient wisdom and Ra Heru Khuti's destiny. It is tied to the idea of reclaiming lost spiritual power. "Your knowledge is partial because the wisdom faculty within you is dormant, dead or asleep.”
• The Role of Women: Women play powerful roles in this narrative. Figures like Amseth (Ra Heru Khuti's mother), Mehurt, Bast, and Sekhet are presented as strong figures, sometimes with magical or spiritual abilities, and influence the main character’s journey. Women are also shown in community roles, such as "Sert-u" or female elders.
• Gullah/Geechee Culture: The story incorporates elements of Gullah culture, specifically through the character Mehurt. This inclusion speaks to the preservation of African traditions and their relevance in a modern context. There's emphasis on a specific line from the Gullah language: "Mus tek cyear a de root fa heal de tree."
• The Importance of the Heart: The text discusses the concept of “not having your heart stolen from you”. This is tied to the idea of maintaining one's spiritual power and avoiding emotional dependence and manipulation.
• Urban Reality and Spirituality: The story seamlessly blends the ancient and the contemporary, with characters experiencing spiritual awakenings and cosmic battles while navigating the complexities of urban life in places like Brooklyn and Harlem.
• Symbolism and Numerology: There is recurring symbolism, like that of Herukhuti depicted as a hawk or lion-headed man and his association with the planet Mars, the color red/purple, and the number eleven. The narrative uses these symbols to add depth to its spiritual and mythical elements.

III. Key Characters

• Ra Heru Khuti: The central protagonist, seemingly chosen to embody a divine power. He is in the process of spiritual initiation and discovering his destiny in the battle against Sethe. He is described as being born in Guyana and speaking Creole.
• Mehurt: A Gullah woman who has a close relationship with Ra Heru Khuti and acts as both a love interest and spiritual guide.
• Amseth: Ra Heru Khuti's mother. A powerful and influential figure who plays an important role in his journey.
• Sethe: The main antagonist, a representation of evil and chaos. He is portrayed as a powerful figure with far-reaching influence.
• Anpu: A complex character, described as a staunch nationalist with knowledge of ancient traditions, who becomes involved in Ra Heru Khuti's mission.
• Ifa Dare: A companion and ally of Ra Heru Khuti, who also is a martial artist and has a military background, and who has read the Papyrus Am Tuat.
• Shekhem Kesnu Neter: A revered sage and wise man, a spiritual guide, considered a pivotal figure for the African American community as figures like Krishna and Mohammed are for other cultures.
• Bast and Sekhet: Sisters closely linked beyond incarnations, with spiritual power. They are connected with Ra Heru Khuti's allies and engage in a conflict with "Ap."

IV. Key Elements and Plot Points

• The Merti Serpent: A venomous serpent that guards a path, which Ra Heru Khuti overcomes. This signifies him overcoming obstacles on his path.
• The Mountain of Behutet: A symbolic location representing the challenges and spiritual heights that Ra Heru Khuti must conquer.
• The Papyrus Am Tuat: The ancient text that holds the key to spiritual power and Ra Heru Khuti’s purpose, a target for Sethe.
• The Boat Ride: A mysterious event or journey that appears to be significant to multiple characters in the story.
• The Ritual: A transforming experience where Khetnu connects with a powerful source of energy and sees himself expanding and turning into the head of a hawk.

V. Recurring Concepts

• Kamitic Cosmogony: The text frequently draws upon the cosmology of ancient Egypt.
• The concept of "Maa Kheru" (to be justified) is mentioned, linking spiritual progression to truth.
• "Neter": Used to refer to divine beings or principles, seen throughout.
• The importance of inner peace is a recurring theme in the narrative and its connection to power.
• The symbolism of the vulture as a protector is also present.

VI. Significance

"Behutet: The Warrior Within" is more than just a narrative; it's a call to spiritual awareness and action. The story suggests the importance of reconnecting with ancient wisdom, embracing one's heritage, and actively fighting against forces of injustice and oppression, using both inner strength and external action. The text emphasizes that spiritual growth and self-realization are essential to overcoming the limitations imposed by systemic evil.

VII. Conclusion The provided excerpts reveal a complex and layered narrative with themes of spiritual warfare, cultural heritage, and personal transformation. The blending of ancient cosmology with modern urban life offers a powerful commentary on identity, destiny, and the ongoing battle between good and evil.