Evolution is a fascinating subject, considering how relatively advanced ancient people were, even with minimal resources. Egyptian legacy is a testament to how modern architecture, infrastructure, and way of living can be reflected through the concepts invented thousands of years ago.
Some manuscripts also reveal secrets beyond the confines of science. Some may call it fictional, mythology, or abide by it like a holy book. Every scripture can be interpreted in several ways. But fascinatingly enough, the ancient theories are still relevant in the modern era in a specific capacity.
Hence, people were intrigued by the latest revelation of an unearthed treasure (metaphorically).
The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism announced that the archaeologists found a 3500-old 43-feet long papyrus called Book of The Dead in an Egyptian cemetery. The manuscript dates back to the New Kingdom era of ancient Egypt.
The Book of The Dead is essentially a guide for the deceased to navigate the afterlife. It is a compilation of around 200 spells, prayers, and magical incantations that can either be found on the scroll or other objects like Mummy wrappings, coffins, tombs, and figurines, among others. However, the Internet does not seem as thrilled with this discovery, stating that the ancestral scriptures should be left alone.
What Is the Egyptian Book of the Dead Book About?
The book is a step-by-step guide for the deceased to navigate the judgment path toward the afterlife. Ancient Egyptians believed that the dead must pass the test that evaluates their entire existence after their death.
The soul, known as the “Ka,” is subjected to various challenges and judgment before they reach the divination into the realm of Gods.
The book also contains codes (spells and prayers) that will help Ka to appease the Gods while crossing the hurdles. Each chapter in the scripture can be in the form of a guide or a map. E.g., chapter 125, as seen below.
Some people have pointed out that the 10 commandments are inspired by this manuscript.
INTERESTING FACT:
One of the chapters in The Papyrus is called “Weighing of the Heart.” As the name suggests, the weight of the heart of the deceased is compared with the feather of Ma’at (Goddess of truth and justice). The soul can proceed to the afterlife only if the heart is found lighter than the feather; otherwise, the soul will continue to face more challenges.
What Is the Egyptian Book of the Dead Called?
The Egyptian “Book Of Dead,” initially called the “Book of Coming Forth by Day” or “Book of Life,” is an ancient Egyptian funerary text.
The scripture was not confined to a Papyrus. It can also be found inscribed on the walls and tombs.
Besides being a guide for the dead, the book has several meaningful symbolisms about life that hold great significance in Egyptian culture and religion.
Where Is the Egyptian Book of the Dead Today?
The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities revealed at the press conference at the Al-Gharifa in Tuna Al-Jabal archeological areas that the archaeologists have excavated ancient Egyptian burial sites. They stated the location was a “cemetery of senior officials and priests of the New Kingdom.”
Inside, they discovered a 43-foot-long papyrus that contained a portion of the Book of the Dead buried with the mummies. It is believed that ancient Egyptians would bury scriptures with the dead so that they could carry them for their judgment day in the afterlife.
Internet Reacts To 3500-Year-Old Egyptian Book of the Dead
The Internet isn’t as keen to mess with the ancient scriptures, particularly because it deals with death. Some netizens believed that the manuscripts might be cursed and that reading them could have consequences.
What is your take on this? Do you think the ancient cemetery should have been dug out? Do you believe it’s an omen to read from the Book Of The Dead?
Let us know in the comments section below.
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