Anubis

Anubis is one of the most well-known gods in ancient Egyptian mythology. He is the god of the dead, mummification, and the afterlife, responsible for guiding souls to their final resting place. With the head of a black jackal and the body of a man, Anubis is a striking figure, often seen as both a protector and a guide.

Anubis’ parentage is shrouded in myth, with some tales naming Osiris and Nephthys as his parents, while others whisper of the sun god Ra or even the war god Seth. Regardless of his origins, his role is clear: he is the guardian of the dead, the conductor of souls, and the vigilant overseer of the embalming process. His presence is invoked in funerary rites and his protection sought to ward off evil and ensure the safe journey of the deceased through the perilous underworld.

What Does Anubis Look Like?

Anubis is usually depicted as a man with the head of a black jackal, symbolizing his connection to cemeteries and the afterlife. His ears stand tall and alert, listening to the whispers of the spirits, while his sharp eyes reflect his role as a vigilant guardian. Jackals were often associated with death in ancient Egypt, as they were scavengers near burial sites, making this form fitting for the god who watches over the dead.

Images show Anubis holding an ankh, the symbol of life, and a scepter, representing his authority over the afterlife. These objects highlight his role as a guide and protector of souls on their journey through the underworld.

What Does Anubis Do?

Anubis has many important roles in Egyptian mythology. He is the guardian of the dead, ensuring that their bodies are properly embalmed and protected. During funerals, priests often prayed to Anubis for his help in preserving the deceased and keeping evil spirits away.

One of Anubis’ most famous jobs is in the Hall of Two Truths, where he oversees the weighing of the heart. This ceremony determines whether a soul is worthy of entering the afterlife. The heart of the deceased is weighed against the feather of Ma’at, the goddess of truth and justice. If the scales are balanced, the soul is granted passage to the afterlife. If not, the soul is devoured by Ammit, a creature that ends the unworthy’s existence.

The worship of Anubis

Anubis was widely worshipped across Egypt, but his main cult center was Cynopolis, meaning “City of Dogs.” Here, priests performed sacred rituals, often wearing wooden masks carved in Anubis’ likeness. The city was a hub for his followers, who placed jackal-headed statues in tombs and temples to protect against grave robbers and guide the deceased to the afterlife.

Anubis’ image has become one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt. He represents the human desire to understand life, death, and the mysteries of what lies beyond. His role as a guardian and guide gives him a timeless appeal, making him one of the most enduring figures in mythology.

Anubis is more than just a god of the dead—he is a guide, protector, and symbol of humanity’s connection to the mysteries of life and death. His jackal-headed form continues to intrigue and inspire, reminding us of the ancient Egyptians’ deep reverence for the afterlife. Whether in mythology or modern media, Anubis’ legacy remains as powerful as ever.

Appearances in modern culture

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