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Weighing the heart of the deceased in a balance. Baboon is one form of Thoth, inventor of writing
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Weighing the heart of the deceased in a balance. Baboon is one form of Thoth, inventor of writing
Weighing the heart of the deceased in a balance. Baboon is one form of Thoth, inventor of writing and secretary to the gods, whose other form is as an ibis-headed man. Above the balance is a block of written hieroglyphs. Funerary papyrus, 18th Dynasty. Louvre, Paris
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Media ID 9782323
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
18th Baboon Balance Block Dynasty Egypt Form Funerary Gods Heart Hieroglyphs Inventor Louvre Measurement Papyrus Paris Practices Scales Secretary Thoth Weighing Weight Writing Written Deceased Ibis Headed
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures an ancient Egyptian funerary practice, showcasing the weighing of the heart of a deceased individual in a balance. The baboon depicted here represents Thoth, the esteemed inventor of writing and secretary to the gods. Thoth is also known to take on another form as an ibis-headed man. Above the delicately balanced scales, we find a block of intricately written hieroglyphs, adding an air of mystique and significance to this ritual. Dating back to the 18th Dynasty, this funerary papyrus holds immense historical value and can be found at the Louvre Museum in Paris. It provides us with a glimpse into one of Egypt's most profound beliefs regarding afterlife judgment. According to their belief system, one's heart was weighed against Ma'at - representing truth and justice - using these precise scales. The presence of Thoth emphasizes his role as both guardian and guide during this crucial moment in eternity. As guardianship over writing and measurement practices were attributed to him, it is fitting that he oversees such a significant event. This image not only showcases ancient Egyptian customs but also serves as a reminder of humanity's enduring fascination with life beyond death. It invites us to contemplate our own mortality while marveling at the rich tapestry woven by civilizations long gone yet forever imprinted on our collective consciousness.
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