Anubis has a bad rap. As a death god and Lord of the Afterlife, he is often portrayed in contemporary media as an evil or angry villain. Nothing is further from the truth.
Historically Anubis (Anpu or Inpu) is a much admired god who was seen as both the weigher of the heart (judgement) and the protector of souls (guardian).
He is portrayed as a man with the head of a jackal. Often depicted with a staff and ankh. The staff shows his position as a divine being with authority and the ankh symbolizes life and immortality.
Anubis is symbolized in many ways:
Inventor of mummification
Judge of Souls
Divine Protector
Fertility and Renewer of Life
He was closely associated with cemeteries and embalming practices, guiding the souls of the departed to the afterlife. As such, he became the guardian of tombs and the judge who weighed the hearts of the deceased to determine their fate in the underworld.
Anubis
A representation of the Egyptian God Anubis as a man with the head of a jackal, holding an Ankh and the Was scepter as he was depicted in The Tomb of Ramesses I, 1290 BCE. Design by Eternal Space.
Transition
The Egyptians believed in the concept of Ma’at, a sense of order, peace, and balance. Death was just as important as life. Therefore, Anubis was a major part of the transition from life to death and back to life again.
We see this sense of balance expressed in their afterlife where the human heart is weighed against the ostrich feather. Anubis declares judgment on the fate of the soul. A heavy heart and the soul would be devoured by Ammit. When the feather was heavier than the heart Anubis would lead the relieved soul to the glorious afterlife.
One of the primary aspects of worshiping Anubis involves acknowledging the ever-present cycle of life and death. Anubis is often associated with the embalming process and the mummification rituals, emphasizing the transition from the mortal body to the spiritual existence.
By recognizing this cycle, devotees gain a deeper understanding of the impermanence of life and the transformative power of death.
Transition is an important theme when honoring Anubis.
Do you ever feel lost and confused? Anubis is a wonderful guide for those times.
Anubis is very calm and nurturing. He can help you feel grounded. Shadowwork is an important aspect of following Anubis.
Psychopomp
Moreover, Anubis is revered as the psychopomp, leading the souls of the departed through the Duat, the realm of the afterlife. This role signifies the critical transition from the earthly plane to the spiritual realm.
Worshippers of Anubis draw inspiration from this divine guide to navigate their own transitional periods in life, seeking his assistance in embracing change and finding the strength to let go of what no longer serves them.
Collective Human Experience
The significance of transition extends beyond personal growth; it also touches upon the collective human experience. Anubis, as the guardian of cemeteries and burial grounds, represents the respectful passage of ancestors into the next phase of existence.
By honoring Anubis, individuals also honor their ancestors and ancestors of all cultures, recognizing the interconnectedness of life and death throughout human history.
The theme of transition in worshiping Anubis holds profound importance. By embracing the lessons of Anubis and navigating transitions with open hearts, we honor their ancestors, honor the interconnectedness of all life, and find the strength to embrace change and growth on their spiritual journey.
“May the wisdom and guidance of Anubis illuminate your path through life’s transitions.
”
Anubis Correspondences
Symbolic Meaning: Anyk embalming, judgment, mummification, and guiding and tending to the dead
Ruling Planetary Body: Pluto, Moon
Ruling Element: Earth
Season: Winter
Animals/Mythological Creatures: Jackals and other canines, Olive Baboon
Plants: Cypress,
Crystals: Black obsidian, Hematite, Labradorite, Onyx, Smoky quartz
Herbs & Scents: Cinnamon, Cloves, Frankincense, Myrrh, Sandalwood
Tools: Ankh, red ribbon, staff, tools to open the mouth
Color: Black and Red
Day: Tuesday
Tarot: XX Judgement
Deities: Eshu, Hades, Hecate, Horus, Isis, Nephthys, The Morrigan, Thoth
Protector and Guardian
Anubis' significance extended beyond just the mortuary realm. He was also perceived as a divine protector, guarding the people against evil spirits and guiding them towards spiritual enlightenment.
One of his epitaphs is Neb-Ta-Djeser: Lord of the Sacred Land. protector of the Necropolis, the land filled with pyramids and mausoleums
Egyptians believed that the souls of the deceased required protection as they embarked on their perilous journey through the underworld. In this context, Anubis played an indispensable role as the guardian of these restless spirits, safeguarding them against evil forces that lurked in the shadows.
Additionally, Anubis' prowess extended beyond the realms of the deceased. He assumed the duty of guarding sacred tombs, temples, and tombs of the pharaohs. He stood tall as an imposing figure at temple entrances, instilling awe and reminding potential transgressors of the consequences that awaited them if they dared to desecrate these sanctified places.
Moreover, Anubis symbolized justice and impartiality, underscoring his role as a fair judge in the underworld. As the deity responsible for weighing the heart against the feather of Ma'at, Anubis ensured the souls of the departed received the justice they deserved. His impartiality in this role solidified his image as the ultimate protector, both in life and beyond the veil of death.
In Egyptian religious iconography, Anubis serves as an emblematic representation of steadfast loyalty and courage.
Resolute and unyielding in his duty, he embodies the unwavering commitment to protecting and guarding those under his care.
I love the image below because it really portrays the compassion Anubis had for the dead souls.
Anubis leading the deceased, detail from the papyrus of Hunefer. 19th Dynasty, ca. 1280 BC. British Museum (image from pl. 5 of E. A. W. Budge, The Book of the Dead: Facsimiles of the Papyri of Hunefer, Ȧnhai, Ḳerāsher and Netchemet, with Supplementary Text from the Papyrus of Nu. London: British Museum, 1899)
Death Dogs
Anubis is connected with the jackal. Specifically the Egyptian Jackal and the African golden jackal. It should be noted that the African golden jackal was recently renamed by scientists and is now called the Golden or African Wolf.
The jackal's association with death and rebirth symbolizes the cycle of life and the transformation of the soul.
As scavengers, the jackal is associated with eating the dead. Their presence was noted in early primitive graveyards eating corpses. This may have been one of the foreshadowing events of a more complex burial with protection for the corpse.
The Egyptians’ goal was for the body to move on to the afterlife to be reborn - thus they had an elaborate mummification process. So to protect the bodies from being devoured Anubis had the head of a jackal.
Anubis was revered throughout Ancient Egypt but most known in the city of Hardai which was also called “The City of Dogs”. Anthropologist Mary Thurston stated that worshippers offered canine figurines and sculptures to Anubis. Mary Thurston’s book which I found very interesting, is called The Lost History of the Canine Race: Our 15,000-Year Love Affair With Dogs.
Another shrine to Anubis is located in Saqqara the necropolis (large cemetery) for the capital, Memphis. Thousands of canine mummies have been evacuated from this location.
Golden or African Wolf (formally jackal) in Senegal. Photo credit Cecile Bloch.
Baboon
While the baboon is most often connected with Hapi it symbolizes Thoth and Ra as well. There are occasional references to Anubis and baboons. The baboon represented wisdom and cunning to the ancient Egyptians.
The Egyptian Book of the Dead contains the line “I have sung and praised the Sun-disc. I have joined the baboons, and I am one of them.” Wild baboons will often face the morning sun to warm themselves.
A fabulous book and easy-to-read translation with all the spells and funeral magic!
Interestingly baboons are not nor were they prehistorically native to Egypt. They prefer the forested regions of central Africa. The more northern species, the Olive Baboon, scientifically named Papio anubis named after Anubis.
Baboon mummy at the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (RMO) in Leiden, Netherlands Photo credit: Rob Koopman
Creating an Altar for Anubis:
There are a number of items you can place on your altar to honor Anubis.
The Statue of Anubis
A statue of Anubis or a figure of a dog will work as well. Place the statue or image in the center of the altar, ensuring it has a prominent position.
Offerings
Dark chocolate
Bread
Pomegranate seeds
Dark ale and beer
Flowers such as lotus or lilies
Symbols
Surround the statue of Anubis with symbols and items associated with the deity. Some suggestions include:
Feathers: Gather black or white feathers and place them around the altar—feathers symbolize the power of flight and the ability to traverse realms as Anubis does.
Egyptian Symbols: Include the Eye of Horus or the Ankh, symbols of protection, life, and eternal vitality.
Crystals: Black obsidian or jet stones can represent the transformative energy of the realm of the dead.
Anubis's Scales: Create a small scale using metal or wood, resembling the scales used to weigh hearts in the afterlife. This can be a powerful representation of Anubis's role as a guide in the journey of the soul.
Incense and Candles
Place black candles on your altar. Ancient Egyptians saw the color black as a symbol of good fortune and rebirth. It was related to the dark rich soil of the Nile River.
Lighting incense, preferably sandalwood or myrrh, can awaken the senses and signal the beginning of sacred rituals.
Sacred Text
Add a touch of inspiration to your Anubis altar by including a sacred text or a piece of symbolic artwork. Consider including excerpts from The Egyptian Book of the Dead, a depiction of ancient Egyptian art, or even a personally written prayer expressing your devotion to Anubis.
Read my article BOOK OF THE DEAD: SPELLS AND GUIDE FOR ANCIENT EGYPTIAN AFTERLIFE
Personal Connection and Devotion
Give thanks to Anubis for his guidance and protection, and may your newly built altar serve as a beacon of connection between your mortal existence and the depths of the underworld, fostering a profound relationship with this revered deity.
Acts to show devotion
Volunteer to help clean up cemeteries. Leave flowers at neglected grave sites.
Volunteer or donate to a local humane society or dog rescue.
Learn more about using herbs.
I keep adding more things - Check out our store!
Divination
Anubis is highly skilled in divination.
One of the primary methods of divination utilized by Anubis was "necromancy," which involved communicating with the spirits of the deceased. As the lord of the underworld, Anubis possessed the ability to bridge the gap between the living and the dead.
People seeking answers or seeking to communicate with their departed loved ones would turn to Anubis. Under his guidance, ancient Egyptians engaged in rituals that involved contacting the spirits to gain insights into the future or receive guidance for present dilemmas.
Read my article on Samhain which contains step by step instructions to have a Dumb Supper to contact your ancestors.
Another form of divination attributed to Anubis is "scapulimancy"—the practice of studying the cracks on burnt animal bones. In ancient Egypt, this method often involved the specific use of cattle bones. These bones were ritually burned, and the resulting cracks were carefully examined for patterns and meanings.
Anubis was believed to possess profound knowledge of interpreting these cracks, offering glimpses into future events, or providing counsel regarding important decisions.
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Anubis excelled in the practice of "scrying," a method through which individuals could gain insights by gazing into reflective surfaces such as mirrors or water. As the god associated with divination, Anubis was believed to possess the ability to channel knowledge and visions through scrying. People seeking wisdom or clarity about their paths would call upon Anubis to assist them in deciphering the meanings hidden within the reflective surfaces.
In all these divination practices, Anubis served as a conduit between mortals and the divine. His mastery of these methods allowed him to unravel the mysterious workings of the universe and provide guidance to those who sought his wisdom.
So, as we commemorate the legacy of Anubis, let us appreciate not only his role as the guardian of the underworld but also his skills as a diviner.
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Rituals
Anubis played a pivotal role in Egyptian religious beliefs and rituals
Rituals dedicated to Anubis often involve the act of self-reflection and meditation on personal transitions. During these practices, individuals can reflect on the aspects of their lives that need alteration or release.
By following Anubis' example and surrendering to the natural flow of life, devotees are encouraged to face their fears and embrace the unknown, just as the deceased must surrender their earthly existence to enter the realm of the afterlife.
Honoring Anubis: A Sacred Ritual of Passage
Introduction
Welcome, seekers of the ancient divine! Today, we gather to pay homage to Anubis, the esteemed Egyptian deity of the afterlife, mummification, and guide of souls. Anubis, the one with the jackal's head, is known for his unwavering protection and steady guidance through the realm of the dead. As we embark on this sacred ritual, let us open our hearts and minds to the wisdom and power Anubis holds.
Preparation
1. Create a sacred space: Arrange a quiet and serene area that will serve as your ritual space. Adorn it with symbols of Anubis, such as statues, pictures, or anointed candles.
2. Gather ritual tools:
A black candle represents Anubis's transformative and protective energy.
Incense, such as frankincense or myrrh, to cleanse the space and evoke a sacred atmosphere.
A small bowl of water to symbolize purification and offer Anubis a drink.
A piece of black fabric or a small altar cloth to represent the fertile and mysterious soil of the afterlife.
A small notebook and pen for recording any insights.
Opening
1. Begin by taking a few moments to center yourself. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and allow the outside world to fade away. As you breathe, imagine a calming white light enveloping your body.
2. Light the black candle and the incense, allowing their fragrant smoke to fill the air, creating a sacred atmosphere around you.
Invocation
3. Speak the following invocatory prayer aloud, from the depths of your heart:
Great Anubis, guardian of the sacred threshold,
Hear our call and grace us with your presence.
Guide us through the maze of life and death,
And protect our souls on our eternal journey.
In this sacred space, we honor your name,
With reverence and gratitude, we invoke your ancient power.
Guide us through this ritual, and share your wisdom,
May our spirits connect, bound by your divine embrace.
Take a moment to reflect on these words and connect with the energy of Anubis.
Connection with Anubis
4. Place the black fabric or altar cloth before you, and visualize yourself standing before a grand gateway, guarded by Anubis himself. Allow yourself to feel the weight of this moment, knowing that you are about to embark on a sacred journey.
5. Gently pour a small amount of water into the bowl, offering it to Anubis as a symbol of purification and your willingness to receive his guidance.
6. With reverence and intention, reach out to touch the cloth or altar cloth, symbolizing your connection with the realm of the afterlife and your openness to Anubis's wisdom. Take a deep breath, inhaling the scents of the incense and allowing yourself to feel the energy of this sacred space.
Meditation and Reflection
7. Close your eyes and enter into a quiet, contemplative state. Allow the presence of Anubis to surround you, envisioning his jackal form standing by your side. Feel his steady and protective energy guiding you.
8. With a clear mind, ask Anubis for guidance on any challenges or transitions you are currently facing. Allow his ancient wisdom to flow into your consciousness, offering insights and clarity. Take this time to listen and receive any messages that may arise.
Closing
9. Express your gratitude to Anubis for his presence, guidance, and protection throughout the ritual. Thank him for the wisdom he has shared and the insights you have gained.
10. Slowly bring yourself back to the present moment, grounding your energy and allowing your consciousness to align with your physical body.
11. Extinguish the candle and the incense, releasing their energy and symbolically closing the ritual.
12. Take a few moments to write down any experiences or messages you received during the ritual in your notebook. These personal reflections will serve as reminders of your sacred connection with Anubis.
Final Thoughts
As you conclude this ritual, remember that Anubis's energy and guidance remain with you long after the ritual ends. Embrace the transformative power within yourself and trust that Anubis will continue to protect, guide, and support you on your journey through the realm of life and beyond.
May the eternal blessings of Anubis be upon you always!
Egyptian Afterlife
Death was an important part of everyone’s life. In Ancient Egypt death was not an ending but a transition - if you were judged worthy.
Anubis had a major role in the death of every Egyptian. Their death began with the mummification process. Anubis would oversee the embalming rites and guide the deceased through the complex rituals required for a proper burial.
Read my blog Mummification In Ancient Egypt which details the process.
Anubis was referred to as Tepy-Dju-Ef, He Who Is Before The Divine Booth: The Divine Booth refers to a burial chamber. Anubis first mummified Osiris, and established how mummification rituals evolved. The priests of Anubis continued the rituals and would often wear jackal masks.
Family
Anubis's name comes from ancient Greek and would have been pronounced Inpu or Anpu in Coptic.
Being one of the oldest Egyptian Gods dating back to 3100 BCE, there have been some changes and modifications to his origin story through the ages.
In the early Coffin Texts, Anubis is said to be either the son of Hesat or Bestat.
Read my article on Bastet to learn more about worshiping her.
Legend from the Middle Kingdom has it that Anubis was the son of Osiris, the supreme god of the afterlife, and Nephthys, the goddess of mourning. As the two were not married, Anubis was illegitimate but he was adopted by Osiris's wife Isis
Anubis is associated with Wepwawet the son of Set and often referred to as his brother. His name means “the opener of the ways” and he is assumed to be a warrior prince. Wepwawet was also a canine figure with the head of a wolf. His coloring was more grey than the black body of Anubis.
Wepwawet was sometimes depicted dressed as a soldier, carrying a mace and a bow. Greek historians believed Wepwawet was the founder of Macedonia, the birthplace of Alexander the Great.
Anupet (Anput) is the wife of Anubis and is symbolized by the jackal and canopic jars. Her headdress has a reclining jackal and a feather on it. She is also considered the protector of Osiris’s body.
Qebehut (Kebechet ) is his daughter and a serpent goddess. Qebehut means “she of the cool waters,” and embalming fluid. According to the “Book of the Dead,” she would also bring cool water to those waiting for judgment by Osiris in the afterlife
Modern Media
Title: The Modern Portrayal of Anubis: Guardian of the Underworld
Introduction
Anubis, the ancient Egyptian deity associated with death, mummification, and the afterlife, has captivated minds for millennia. Despite being an ancient god, Anubis continues to resonate with modern audiences, primarily through various forms of media. This article aims to explore how Anubis is portrayed in modern media, shedding light on the intriguing ways in which this timeless figure is adapted and depicted in contemporary culture.
Anubis appears in Rick Riordan's popular Kane Chronicles, young adult fiction combining Egyptian mythology in a modern fantasy story. Anubis is portrayed as a young and sympathetic character, often taking on the role of an ally for the protagonists. Riordan adeptly breathes new life into ancient gods, engaging readers with Anubis' complexities and the moral dilemmas he faces.
The Mummy Trilogy: Anubis made a significant appearance in the cult classic "The Mummy" film trilogy, where he is often depicted in his classic form as a human with a jackal's head. Anubis is portrayed as a powerful deity with the ability to restore life and serve as a protector of the dead. Anubis has control over a re-animated army. The god makes a deal with the completely fictional “Scorpion King” and appears on screen riding a chariot drawn by ghost horses.
Assassin's Creed Origins: Anubis takes center stage in this influential video game set in ancient Egypt. Players encounter the deity in dreamlike sequences and supernatural events, emphasizing his role as the guide of souls in the afterlife. The game explores Anubis' significance within Egyptian mythology, offering players an immersive experience with his mystical nature as one of the gods.
Author, Ame Vanorio, is the founder of Celebrate Pagan Holidays and an environmental educator. This summer honored Anubis and worked hard of the tasks he sent her.
Isis, originally called Aset, meaning Queen of the Throne, was a powerful goddess not only in Ancient Egypt but also in the Greek and Roman worlds. No wonder so many pagans seek to honor her today!