khetem is mentioned as a unit of value for metals, while “an ox” is valued as one seal. Furthermore, the word
khetem, determined by an ox, actually occurs as a measure of value, and means a seal with the figure of an ox stamped on it, or an ox skin sealed.[[24]]
(c) For Transference of Authority.
We have just seen that the affixing of a seal to a document gave to that document its validity and binding force, and it is now not difficult to realize that, being the real instrument of the power and authority of an office, it should have become the symbol of it. The delivery therefore of the seal or signet either by the king or by his minister, committed to the individual the authority and power to execute the rights and duties of his office. The Egyptian monarch himself was invested at his Coronation[[25]] with the Royal Signet,[[26]] upon which his name and titles were engraved; this was as important a part of the insignia of royalty as his sceptre or his crown. In an early text (circa 2500 B.C.) it is said that “Mer-en-Ra maketh his appearance as king, he hath taken possession of his signet (sah) and of his throne.”[[27]] The word for signet is here
Sah (variants
and
