The Egyptian Book of the Dead

The Egyptian Book of the Dead, known to the ancient Egyptians as "The Book of Coming Forth by Day" (or "Reu nu pert em hru" in Egyptian), is not a single book but a collection of funerary texts consisting of magic spells intended to assist the deceased in navigating the underworld, passing its trials, and reaching the afterlife successfully.

These texts evolved from earlier funerary literature, particularly the Pyramid Texts (inscriptions carved on the walls of pyramids) and the Coffin Texts (spells written on coffins). The Book of the Dead represents a more accessible evolution of these traditions, written on papyrus scrolls that were placed in the tomb with the deceased.

"I have not committed sin. I have not committed robbery with violence. I have not stolen. I have not slain men or women. I have not stolen food. I have not swindled offerings. I have not stolen from God..."
— From the "Negative Confession" in Spell 125

While elements of the Book of the Dead can be traced to the Old Kingdom (c. 2686–2181 BCE) Pyramid Texts, the Book of the Dead as a distinct collection emerged during the Second Intermediate Period (c. 1650–1550 BCE). It reached its full standardized form during the New Kingdom (c. 1550–1070 BCE), particularly during the 18th Dynasty.

The content and organization of the Book of the Dead varied considerably from one copy to another, with wealthier individuals commissioning more elaborate and extensive versions. By the 26th Dynasty (c. 664–525 BCE), the texts became more standardized in content and organization, often including up to 192 distinct spells or "chapters."

The tradition continued through the Late, Ptolemaic, and Roman periods until the rise of Christianity in Egypt gradually displaced these ancient funerary practices. The last known examples date to around the 2nd century CE.

While the Book of the Dead contains numerous spells, several stand out for their spiritual significance and frequency of appearance:

The Book of the Dead provides profound insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife, the nature of the soul, and cosmic order:

1. Concept of the Soul: The Egyptians believed in multiple spiritual elements that composed a person, including the Ka (life force), Ba (personality), Akh (transformed spirit), Shadow, and Name. The Book of the Dead addresses the journey and needs of these various aspects after death.
2. Ma'at and Cosmic Balance: Central to Egyptian spiritual thought was Ma'at, the concept of truth, justice, harmony, and cosmic order. The Weighing of the Heart ceremony illustrated that one's actions in life had direct consequences in the afterlife.
3. Immortality Through Knowledge: The Book of the Dead exemplifies the Egyptian belief that knowledge—specifically, knowing the right words, spells, and names—was essential for transcendence. By possessing this sacred knowledge, the deceased could overcome obstacles and achieve immortality.
4. Magical Transformation: Many spells in the Book of the Dead focus on the deceased's ability to transform into various entities—birds, lotus flowers, gods—symbolizing spiritual liberation and divine power in the afterlife.

The text reveals a sophisticated understanding of human psychology and spirituality, addressing universal human concerns about death, judgment, and the possibility of continued existence beyond physical dissolution. Its influence extends beyond ancient Egypt, having impacted Western esoteric traditions, particularly Hermeticism and various mystical schools that drew inspiration from Egyptian wisdom.