Tuesday, August 23, 2011

A Short Guide To A Popular Egyptian Antique

By Gamal Rasheed


The symbol of the ancient Egyptian Ankh is one of the most common hieroglyphics from the history of Egypt. When it comes to its appearance it is reminiscent of the symbol of the cross that is supposed to represent Christianity with the only difference being a loop above the top bar.

There are lots of theories and legends concerning the origin of the Egyptian Ankh symbol. Some suggest that it is the manifestation of sexual symbolism. Others suggest that it is a representation of an elaborate bow much the identical way as the knot of Isis.

Numerous ancient hieroglyphics provide a very detailed interpretation of the symbol of the Ankh. Some of them clearly go to show that the lower section of the symbol is really made up of two parts and these two parts are the end of a bow.

The initial examples of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics really depict the Ankh as being separated from the ends. This is the reason why Egyptologists think that originally the symbol must have had some of religious significance as a knot.

Egyptology has not yet derived a logical conclusion regarding the birth of the Egyptian Ankh. Nevertheless, the studies don't actually confuse us, as the main thing signified by the Ankh is the fact that it symbolizes life. Hence, in Egypt there is a depiction of many of their deities holding the Ankh symbol which stands for life.

In Egyptian script, the Ankh appears as if it is presented on the king's lips symbolizing the 'breath of life'. A more comprehensive study of its meaning indicates that it could signify the importance of water and air that are necessary to preserve life.

Egyptology also uncovers anthropomorphic symbols which is characteristic of the Egyptian pictures. Pictures emphasizing anthropomorphism have been found in Egypt. A remarkable picture is that of an Ankh symbol represented by a fan made of ostrich feathers with a pharaoh in the foreground. Various meanings of the Ankh are illustrated in a similar manner.

An unusual representation of the Ankh illustrates a continuous chain of Ankh symbols joined to one another. They are often seen on water containers, so that the powerful quality of water is symbolized while it is poured out of the container. Many utensils used for libation during religious rituals were discovered to have the form of the Egyptian Ankh.

Another important fact about the Egyptian Ankh symbol is that many items used in their everyday lives, had been intentionally made in the form of the Ankh. Objects that were specially used in royal functions, involving religious rituals were made like the Ankh. However, the common people had either Ankh-shaped objects or just the Ankh picture painted on the object. Mirrors, spoons, sistrums and several crockery items were often Ankh-shaped.




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