During the holiday season, we take for granted the multitude of symbolism that surrounds us. In this time of peaceful celebration, I thought you might like to explore some of the symbolism that abounds in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. The most common symbols are usually found today in jewelry and stationery. Probably you have seen these symbols before and wondered just exactly what they stood for.
Let's take a look at the ankh. It is a hieroglyphic stylization for a sandal strap or a mirror. It symbolizes "life" and is associated with things that are life sustaining, such as water, air and food. Also it indicates the life-force and sometimes refers to sexual fecundity. The early Egyptian Christians adopted the ankh, believing it pre-figured the Christian cross.
Another common symbol is the scarab. A scarab is a beetle, usually associated with the sun and creator god Khepera, symbolizing spontaneous creation and regeneration. Most often it is found in the form of an amulet, made of green granite or marble, lime-stone, blue glass or purple, green or blue porcelain.
The lotus is a symbol of rebirth. The flower retreats beneath the water each night and rises again each day with the sun. It is a symbol of Upper Egypt, whereas the symbol of lower Egypt is papyrus.
And last, but not least, is utchat, or the eye of Horus. The mythical story says that the gods Seth and Horus struggled for power. Seth tore out Horus's eye. It was magically restored and became a symbol of protective watchfulness, as well as being associated with physical and moral law and order.
What better time to consider the natural order of life, regeneration, and rebirth than during the Christmas season. Happy Holidays!
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©1998 Jasmin Jahal