<human>:  When did the ancient Egyptians start worshiping the sun god Ra?
<bot>: The ancient Egyptians started worshiping the sun god Ra around 5,000 years ago. The ancient Egyptians worshipped the sun god Ra because he was the creator of the universe and the life giving force of the world. Ra was also associated with the sky and the sun. The ancient Egyptians believed that Ra would protect them from evil and that he would bring them prosperity and good health.