[2533] Syenite is the name still given to feldspar, hornblende, and quartz, passing into each other by insensible gradations, and resembling granite.
[2534] “Varied with red spots,” similar to our red granite.
[2535] “Obelisci.” So called from ὀβελισκὸς, a “small spit,” in consequence of their tapering form.
[2536] Meaning, probably, that in the Egyptian language, the same word is used as signifying a “spit” and a “ray” of light; for it is generally agreed that the word “obeliscus” is of Greek origin.
[2537] He does not appear to have been identified; and the correct reading is doubtful.
[2538] Heliopolis, or On. See B. v. c. 11.
[2539] These figures or hieroglyphics did not denote the phonetic language of Egypt, but only formed a symbolical writing.
[2540] Perhaps the same as “Sesostris.” The former reading is “Sothis.”
[2541] Ajasson identifies him with Rameses III., a king of the eighteenth dynasty, who reigned B.C. 1561. This was also one of the names of Sesostris the Great.
[2542] The name of the bull divinity worshipped by the people of On, or Heliopolis; while by the people of Memphis it was known as Apis.