The term "Copts" is equivalent to the word "Egyptians." It is derived from the Greek word "Aigyptos," which in turns is derived from the ancient Egyptian "Ha-ka-Ptah," i.e. "the house of the spirit of Ptah," a most highly revered deity in Egyptian mythology.
The Copts as the successors of the ancient Egyptians are defined as the modern sons of the Pharaohs. The Copts played an essential role in the whole Christian world, especially during the first five centuries.
The religious background of the ancient Egyptians helped them to eagerly accept Christianity in the first century, and they continue to practice Christianity in depth through ascetic life, meditation and studying the holy scripture.
Herodotus (484 BC – 425 BC) stated “The ancient Egyptians are religiously minded by nature since the very early times”. The religious curiosity of Ancient Egyptians was satisfied by the Christian faith, and continued to date, putting no limits to spiritual progress, bringing believers towards the bosom of the Father that they might enjoy the likeness of God, get in communion with Him and partake of the eternal divine mysteries.