Heart scarab

Definition

A heart scarab is a funerary amulet in the shape of a scarab beetle that was placed on the chest of the deceased during mummification in ancient Egypt. This sacred object symbolized resurrection and protection, believed to weigh the heart of the deceased against the feather of Ma'at during the judgment in the afterlife, determining their fate. The heart scarab was often inscribed with prayers and spells to aid the deceased in their journey beyond death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Heart scarabs were made from various materials such as stone, faience, or metal and were commonly used during the New Kingdom period.
2. The scarab beetle symbolizes regeneration and rebirth, reflecting the belief in life after death in ancient Egyptian culture.
3. These amulets were often personalized with inscriptions tailored to the individual, including their name and protective spells.
4. Heart scarabs were typically placed on the body of the deceased prior to sealing the tomb, serving as both a symbol of protection and a charm for the afterlife journey.
5. During the Weighing of the Heart ceremony, if the heart was found to be lighter than Ma'at's feather, the deceased could enter paradise; if heavier, they faced annihilation.

Review Questions

• How did heart scarabs function within ancient Egyptian funerary practices and beliefs about the afterlife?
  • Heart scarabs played a critical role in ancient Egyptian funerary practices by symbolizing protection and resurrection for the deceased. They were placed on the chest during mummification to ensure that the heart would be present for the judgment by Osiris. The belief was that this amulet would help secure a favorable outcome in the Weighing of the Heart ceremony, where it would be weighed against Ma'at's feather to determine if the individual could enter the afterlife.
• Discuss the significance of inscriptions found on heart scarabs and their impact on ancient Egyptian beliefs about protection in the afterlife.
  • Inscriptions on heart scarabs often included spells and prayers aimed at protecting the deceased during their journey through the afterlife. These texts served not only as charms but also as guides for navigating challenges faced in the underworld. By personalizing these inscriptions with names and specific blessings, families reinforced their connection to their loved ones while also adhering to cultural traditions that emphasized safeguarding one's soul against malevolent forces.
• Evaluate how heart scarabs reflect broader themes of resurrection and morality in ancient Egyptian religion and how these beliefs influenced societal behaviors.
  • Heart scarabs exemplify essential themes of resurrection and morality within ancient Egyptian religion by embodying the belief that a person's actions during life would affect their fate in death. The judgment process highlighted moral accountability, encouraging ethical behavior among individuals who wanted to ensure their safe passage into the afterlife. This focus on morality influenced societal norms, fostering a culture where personal integrity was paramount, shaping laws, customs, and interpersonal relationships throughout ancient Egypt.

Related terms

Ma'at: The ancient Egyptian concept of truth, balance, and cosmic order, represented by a goddess who weighed the hearts of the dead against her feather.

Amulet: A protective object worn or carried to ward off evil and bring good fortune, often inscribed with magical spells.

Funerary Rituals: The ceremonies and practices performed to honor the dead, ensuring their safe passage to the afterlife.