Story Summary
Journey through the Duat with The Book of the Dead, as the soul faces the weighing of the heart against Ma'at’s feather to earn a place in the Field of Reeds.
In the shadows of the Duat, the deceased began a perilous journey guided by the spells of the Book of the Dead. To reach the Field of Reeds, the soul had to pass through treacherous gates guarded by fierce deities and cross rivers of fire. Finally, the traveler reached the Hall of Two Truths. Here, before the god Osiris, the heart of the deceased was placed on a golden scale, weighed against the white feather of Ma’at, the goddess of truth and justice. Anubis checked the balance while Thoth stood ready to record the verdict. If the heart was lighter than the feather, the soul was declared 'true of voice' and granted eternal life. However, if the heart was heavy with the weight of sin, the monstrous Ammit—part lion, hippopotamus, and crocodile—would devour it, ending the soul's existence forever. This sacred text served as the ultimate map, ensuring the righteous could navigate the darkness and find peace among the stars.
The Moral
One's actions and integrity in life determine their eternal destiny; truth is the only currency that matters in the end.
“May my heart be balanced against the feather of truth, that I may walk among the stars.”
Fun Fact
The ancient Egyptians actually called these texts the 'Book of Coming Forth by Day,' as they believed the spells allowed the soul to leave the tomb in spirit form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Book of the Dead?
The moral is that every action in life carries weight in the afterlife. Only those who live with truth, justice, and integrity can achieve eternal peace and avoid total destruction.
What was the purpose of the Book of the Dead?
It was a collection of spells and directions designed to help the deceased navigate the dangers of the underworld. It provided the necessary knowledge to pass divine tests and reach the Field of Reeds.
What happens during the Weighing of the Heart?
The heart of the deceased is weighed against the feather of Ma'at, representing truth. If the heart is balanced or lighter than the feather, the person enters paradise; if it is heavier, it is devoured.
Who is the 'Devourer' in Egyptian mythology?
Ammit is the Devourer, a demon with the head of a crocodile, the body of a lion, and the hindquarters of a hippopotamus. She sits by the scales of justice to consume the hearts of the unworthy.
What is the Field of Reeds?
The Field of Reeds, or Aaru, is the Egyptian vision of paradise. It is a reflection of the best parts of life on Earth, where the soul lives eternally in peace and abundance among the gods.
Who are the primary gods involved in the judgment?
Osiris presides as the judge of the dead, while Anubis performs the weighing of the heart. Thoth, the god of wisdom, records the final outcome to ensure the judgment is divine and accurate.