Scarab (base)

A scarab is an ancient Egyptian amulet in the form of a dung beetle, symbolic of regeneration. As time went on, scarabs developed into use as personal seals. This example made of black steatite dates from around 1295 to 1186 BC.

This picture shows the base of the scarab. Like most heart scarabs, it has been carved with chapter 30B from the Book of the Dead. This is a spell which entreats the heart not to testify against the deceased when it comes to be judged by Osiris, the ruler of the gods.

The Book of the Dead is a collection of texts containing magic formulas and instructions. First compiled and edited in the 16th century BC, other texts were added over the years. They were written on papyrus or other materials, and buried with the deceased to help in the Afterlife.

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