the pharaohs prime task in governing was to uphold ma’at and they often held seated images of ma’at in their hand to the gods, which indicated that the pharaoh represented the divine order. the words “i have done ma’at", were spoken by several pharaohs and several others called themselves, “beloved of ma’at.” even the gods were sometimes shown praising ma’at. people were interested in how they could please her but they also were afraid of her. it was said that a small image of ma’at was more pleasing to the gods than piles of rich offerings. it was also said that a little truth was more welcome than huge bribes.