Tuesday 27 August 2013

Significant Facts About A Prized Egyptian Antiquity

By Gamal Rasheed


A peculiar symbol known as the Egyptian Ankh was prevalently used by ancient Egyptians. The Egyptian Ankh is very famous when compared to numerous other symbols of the Egyptian script, namely hieroglyphics. It is quite similar to the popular cross of the Christians, the only distinguishing factor being the loop on the upper strip.

There are lots of theories and legends regarding the origin of the Egyptian Ankh symbol. Some suggest that it is the manifestation of sexual symbolism. Others think . that it is a representation of an elaborate bow much in the same manner as the knot of Isis.

A deeper description of the Ankh can be had from the hieroglyphics of Egypt. They give some interesting information about the lower half of the symbol. They reveal that the lower half of the Ankh symbol splits to make the bow's two ends.

After analyzing some very old hieroglyphic scripts, historians are of the opinion that there is a division at the end of the symbol. As outlined by them, the characteristic Isis knot of the Egyptian Ankh carries a religious base.

Even though historians have not been able to reach an absolute conclusion about the origins of the symbol of the Ankh, there isn't any confusion about what it represents. In its essence the Egyptian symbol is meant to represent life. This is why many ancient Egyptian deities have been depicted carrying the symbol of the Ankh in their hands symbolizing life.

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

Egyptology also uncovers anthropomorphic symbols that 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 from ostrich feathers with a pharaoh in the foreground. Different meanings of the Ankh are illustrated in a similar way.

Another exclusive manner in which the symbol has been represented was in the form of chains wherein which a number of Ankh symbols are consecutively linked to each other. Such patterns are generally depicted on water vessels through which water is being poured thereby denoting the power of water. Archaeologists have also been able to find instances of libation vessels that were actually created in the form of the Ankh symbol and put to use in religious ceremonies.

The form of the Ankh was used to make many of the items used in a household. This was purpose-built due to its significance in the life of ancient Egyptians. Ceremonial rites and royal festivals demanded the use of objects made in the form of the Egyptian Ankh. The commons only used items whose shape resembled the Ankh, or those on which the Ankh symbol was pictured. Lots of their crockery, spoons, mirrors and sistrums were of this shape.




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