Hieroglyphic Papyrus Book of the Dead; Late Period, 2nd Cent. BC; from Thebes

Two female deities kneel facing each other with arms raised in adoration. Between them rises a large red solar disk resting upon a pedestal or shrine, from which hangs or emanates red elements separated by a series of ankh, djed, and was-scepter (powerful symbols of life, stability, and divine authority, often associated with Osiris and the promise of resurrection and eternal life).

The goddess on the left wears the throne hieroglyph, identifying her as Isis. The goddess on the right wears the hieroglyph of the house or temple, marking her as Nephthys.

They are the twin divine mourners and protectors of Osiris. The surrounding stars and hieroglyphic border signify the celestial realm, emphasizing the cosmic nature of this act.

This image depicts the adoration and renewal of the solar deity, a scene that also expresses the daily resurrection of Osiris, with whom the deceased is identified.

The solar disk represents Ra, the sun god, or the reborn Osiris-as-Ra—the divine fusion of sun and underworld powers. The red column beneath the disk may symbolize the emergence of the sun from the primeval waters, the rays of dawn, or the stream of life-force (ka-energy) sustaining the cosmos.

Isis and Nephthys’ symmetrical gestures recall their role in myth: they mourned and revived Osiris, ensuring his rebirth. Their adoration of the solar form here expresses the eternal cycle of death and resurrection—night and day, death and rebirth.

Taken on  Tuesday 06th of August 2019

Device: Google

Model: Pixel 3 XL

Tags:  ankh | djed | egypt | goddess | hieroglyphs | museum | osiris | papyrus | picture | solar disc | two angels | was-scepter

Genre:  2nd Century