Second Intermediate Period
Apepi (Apophis)
15th Dynasty (Hyksos) · 1650-1550 BCE
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The longest reign
Apepi, also known by the Greek name Apophis, is believed to be the longest-reigning Hyksos king. Historical records indicate he ruled for approximately 40 years. He was the most powerful ruler of the 15th Dynasty, pushing Hyksos influence further south into middle Egypt.
The patron of Seth
Apepi took Khyan's imperial ambitions even further. He adopted the traditional royal title "pacifier of the two lands" and closely associated himself with the god Seth, proclaiming himself "beloved of Seth, Lord of Sumenu." Because Seth was associated with both foreigners and the deserts, and possessed a major cult center in the southern city of Naqada, Apepi utilized this specific religious imagery to legitimize his claim over Upper Egypt.