Anubis : God of the Dead

Anubis

Introduction

In the intricate web of Egyptian mythology, Anubis emerges as a central figure, symbolizing the transition between life and death. Revered as the custodian of mummification and the guide for souls in their journey to the underworld, Anubis embodies both the fearsome and the revered aspects of existence. Also known as Inpu, Inpw, Jnpw, or Anpu in Ancient Egyptian, he is one of the oldest gods of Egypt, likely evolving from the earlier jackal god Wepwawet. Anubis is the god of funerary rites, protector of graves, and guide to the afterlife, standing as a prominent and enigmatic deity in Egyptian lore.

Physical Traits

Anubis, commonly portrayed as either a jackal or a humanoid figure with a jackal head, embodies the complex relationship ancient Egyptians had with these scavengers often found in cemeteries. While jackals were known to disturb the dead, they also symbolized guardianship over the deceased, a duality reflected in Anubis’s role as both protector and overseer of funerary rites.

His association with the color black further adds depth to his symbolism. In contrast to modern associations with mourning, black represented renewal and the fertile soil of the Nile River in ancient Egypt. It also mirrored the hue of embalmed corpses. Thus, Anubis’s black form links him to the transformative nature of death and the promise of new life in the afterworld.

Depicted alongside his brother Wepwawet, who shares his canine attributes but with grey or white fur, Anubis stands as a visual representation of power and enigma. With his iconic jackal-headed form atop a human body, adorned with regal adornments and holding symbols of divine authority, Anubis commands reverence and awe, embodying the solemnity and majesty of the Egyptian pantheon.

Family

Anubis’s lineage remains a topic of debate among scholars, reflecting the evolution of Egyptian mythology over time. Initially regarded as the sole “Lord of the Dead,” his role shifted with the emergence of the Osiris myth, wherein he was portrayed as the son of Osiris, the god of the underworld, and Nephthys, Osiris’s sister. This integration into the Osiris mythos solidified Anubis’s significance within the pantheon. Another theory proposes that Anubis may have originated from the earlier jackal god, Wepwawet, with both deities sharing canine attributes and connections to death. Over time, these characteristics possibly merged, contributing to the development of Anubis’s identity.

Anubis is also associated with a female counterpart, Anput, who shares his jackal-headed form and associations with funerary rites. Some scholars suggest she could be a later development or a specific aspect of Anubis himself. Despite the variations in his mythology and parentage, Anubis remains a central figure in Egyptian cosmology, serving as a guardian and guide in the afterlife, regardless of his divine lineage.

Other Names

In the expansive realm of Egyptian mythology, Anubis is celebrated under a plethora of epithets, each reflecting a distinct facet of his character. Among these, he is commonly known as “Anpu” or “Inpu,” denoting his status as the divine overseer of the dead. Additionally, Anubis is sometimes equated with the Greek deity Hermes, leading to his hybridized designation as “Anubis-Hermanubis” in Greco-Roman syncretism. These alternative titles highlight the dynamic nature of ancient religious beliefs and the interplay between different cultural traditions.

Anubis’s epithets encompass a range of symbolic meanings, such as “First of the Westerners,” emphasizing his role as the guardian of souls buried on the western bank of the Nile. He is also hailed as “Lord of the Sacred Land,” signifying his sovereignty over the desert territories of the afterlife, and “He Who Is upon His Mountain,” symbolizing his vigilant presence over tombs and necropolises. These varied appellations deepen our understanding of Anubis’s significance within Egyptian cosmology, revealing the multifaceted nature of this revered deity.

Powers and Abilities

Anubis’s multifaceted character encompasses various roles and powers integral to Egyptian mythology. From the earliest periods, he was revered as both a guardian of graves and an embalmer, ensuring the proper preservation of the deceased. However, his significance extends far beyond mere symbolism, as he possesses potent abilities crucial to the afterlife.

One of his primary functions is overseeing the mummification process, ensuring that the deceased’s body is meticulously prepared for its journey into the next life. Additionally, Anubis assumes a pivotal role in the judgment of souls in the Hall of Ma’at, where he weighs the hearts of the departed against the feather of truth. As a psychopomp, he guides souls through the perilous journey to the underworld, safeguarding them from malevolent forces and ensuring their safe passage to the realm of Osiris.

Moreover, Anubis serves as the guardian of tombs and cemeteries, warding off evil spirits and preserving the sanctity of the deceased’s eternal rest. His array of powers and responsibilities underscores his unparalleled significance within Egyptian cosmology, as he embodies both the protector and judge of souls, maintaining the cosmic order of Ma’at with unwavering vigilance.

Modern Day Influence

Anubis’s enduring legacy transcends the ages, leaving an indelible mark on modern culture and society. Across various artistic mediums, from literature to film and video games, his enigmatic presence continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Often depicted as a symbol of mystique and intrigue, Anubis embodies themes of death, rebirth, and transformation, making him a compelling character for creative exploration.

Beyond entertainment, Anubis’s influence extends into contemporary society, where his imagery adorns jewelry, fashion, and home decor, serving as a powerful emblem of protection and guidance. In esoteric and spiritual circles, he is revered as a deity associated with transformation and renewal, further enriching his significance in modern belief systems.

Despite his relatively minor role in ancient Egyptian mythology, Anubis’s iconic jackal-headed image remains a potent symbol of ancient Egypt and its rich cultural heritage. Through the passage of time, his legacy endures, continuing to resonate in myriad ways across the globe.