The Role of Anubis in the Mummification Process

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The Role of Anubis in the Mummification Process - Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of the dead and funerary rites, played a crucial role in the mummification process. Often depicted with the head of a jackal, Anubis was believed to be the protector and guide of the deceased on their journey to the afterlife. In this article, we will explore the role of Anubis in the mummification process, as well as the significance of his imagery and symbolism.




The mummification process, which was used to preserve the bodies of the deceased, was an important part of ancient Egyptian funerary rites. The process typically took around 70 days and involved several steps, including the removal of internal organs, the drying of the body, and the wrapping of the body in linen bandages.


One of the most important steps in the mummification process was the weighing of the heart, which was believed to be the seat of the soul. The heart was left in the body, while the other organs were removed and placed in canopic jars. Anubis was believed to be the guardian of the scales used to weigh the heart, and his presence was thought to ensure that the heart was not found wanting, and the deceased would be able to enter the afterlife.


Anubis was also closely associated with the embalming process, in which the body was dried and wrapped in linen bandages. He was believed to be the one who prepared the body for burial, and his presence was thought to protect the body from decay and ensure that the deceased would be able to enter the afterlife. The linen bandages used to wrap the body were often adorned with images of Anubis, as well as other funerary gods and symbols.


Anubis's association with the mummification process is also reflected in his imagery and symbolism. The jackal head that he is often depicted with is thought to represent the scavenging animals that were commonly found near graves and burial sites. The jackal was also associated with the god of the desert, Wepwawet, who was believed to help guide the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.


In addition to his role in the mummification process, Anubis was also considered to be the protector of graves and tombs. He was often depicted as a guardian, standing at the entrance to the tomb to protect the deceased from harm. His image was also commonly found on tomb walls and other funerary objects, such as shabti figures and canopic jars, as a reminder of his protection and guidance.


In conclusion, Anubis played a crucial role in the mummification process, as well as in the protection and guidance of the deceased on their journey to the afterlife. His imagery and symbolism, particularly the jackal head, reflects his association with funerary rites and the protection of the deceased. Anubis continues to be an important figure in the understanding of ancient Egyptian religion and funerary practices.

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