The Egyptian Afterlife

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that the "Egyptian Book of the Dead" contained instructions for the preparation and the journey of the dead to ensure a successful transition into the afterlife. The paper then details this preparation of the body of the deceased for entry into the underworld through a process called mummification. The "Book of the Dead", the paper relates, also contained a guidebook of passwords and spells to overcome dangerous obstacles in the journey of the dead through the underworld. The paper uses MLA style footnotes but does not include a works cited page.

From the Paper:

"The bandaging process was strict, with ritual formulas being recited during each step and protective amulets being placed in places specified by the "Book of the Dead". The preservation process ended with the sealing of the bandages with resin. During the funeral, key chapters from the "Book of the Dead "were recited to enable the deceased to be able to make the journey to the afterlife. For example, a ceremony called "the opening of the mouth" found in chapter XVII was one of the most important rituals for the deceased in the afterlife."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Sharon Avrutick, editor, Mummies: A Voyage Through Eternity (New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1994.
• Bob Brier, Egyptian Mummies: Unraveling the Secrets of an Ancient Art (New York: William Morrow, 1994).
• E. A. Wallis Budge, translator, The Egyptian Book of the Dead (Mineola, NY: Dover Publishing, Inc., 1967).
• George Allen, "Additions to the Egyptian Book of the Dead," Journal of Near East Studies (July 1952).

More papers on The Egyptian Afterlife:

• Book Review # 106192 : "The Egyptian Book of the Dead"
• Book Review # 50871 : "An Analysis of the "Egyptian Book of the Dead"
• Analytical Essay # 1632 : "The Egyptian Book of the Dead"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: