Podcast Summary: The Ancients – Episode: Anubis and the Underworld

Release Date: October 10, 2024
Host: Tristan Hughes
Guest: Dr. Joyce Tyldesley, OBE, University of Manchester

Introduction

In the fifth and final installment of The Ancients' "Egyptian Gods and Goddesses" miniseries, host Tristan Hughes delves deep into the enigmatic world of Anubis, the ancient Egyptian deity associated with the underworld and mummification. Joined by esteemed Egyptologist Dr. Joyce Tyldesley, the episode explores the multifaceted roles of Anubis, the intricate process of mummification, and the complex beliefs surrounding the afterlife in ancient Egypt.

The Myth of Anubis and Set

The episode opens with a vivid retelling of the myth involving Seth (Set) and Anubis. Set, the god of chaos, brutally mutilates Osiris, the pharaoh god, scattering his dismembered body across Egypt. As Set attempts to thwart the resurrection of Osiris, Anubis emerges as the relentless protector of the dead, engaging in a night-long chase to defend Osiris's remains. This dramatic narrative sets the stage for understanding Anubis's pivotal role in Egyptian mythology.

Interview with Dr. Joyce Tyldesley

Role and Evolution of Anubis

Tristan Hughes initiates the discussion by questioning whether Anubis is the most renowned of Egyptian deities. Dr. Tyldesley responds thoughtfully:

"He has definitely got a fan base. I mean, again, he hasn't got a great deal of mythology, but he's very recognizable... Whenever people are about mummification, he'll be there."
[09:13]

Anubis's significance evolves over time. Initially, he is primarily associated with cemeteries and mummification. As Osiris's cult gains prominence, Anubis transitions into a more specialized role as an undertaker and assistant to Osiris in the afterlife.

Mummification Process

When asked about the mummification process, Dr. Tyldesley provides a detailed account:

"They would take the body as soon as they could... extract the brain from the head... remove the internal organs... dry the body out for somewhere between 40 and 70 days... bandage the whole thing up."
[26:20]

She emphasizes the dual nature of mummification—it was both a practical method of preservation and a deeply religious ritual involving prayers and ceremonies to ensure the deceased's readiness for the afterlife.

Egyptian Afterlife Beliefs

The conversation shifts to the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife. Dr. Tyldesley explains:

"The deceased released several spirits. One of them, the ka, has to stay near the body... the ba... will set off on this journey."
[32:56]

The journey to the afterlife was thought to require proper preservation of the body and the right funerary texts, such as the Book of the Dead, to navigate challenges like the "weighing of the heart" against the feather of Ma'at.

Book of the Dead and Funerary Texts

Dr. Tyldesley delves into the significance of the Book of the Dead:

"It's a scroll... has pictures... chapters of spells and descriptions... give them very explicit details as to what's going to come up."
[40:13]

These texts were essential for the elite to successfully pass through the trials of the afterlife, ensuring their hearts were pure and enabling their spirits to join the Field of Reeds or become one with Osiris.

River Nile’s Significance in Afterlife

The River Nile's integral role in Egyptian civilization extends into their funerary beliefs:

"The river seems to be connected and boats connected with funerals... model boats into the tombs to use them in the afterlife."
[38:43]

The journey across the Nile mirrored the soul's voyage to the underworld, symbolizing transition and continuity.

Apocalyptic Views

Concluding the interview, Dr. Tyldesley touches on ancient Egyptian apocalyptic beliefs:

"They regard everything as cycles... life will come back again... but we're not told that."
[48:02]

While definitive apocalyptic narratives are scarce, there's an underlying belief in cyclical renewal rather than a definitive end of the world.

Mummification and the Afterlife

Dr. Tyldesley elaborates on the painstaking process of mummification, highlighting its necessity for ensuring the deceased's survival in the afterlife. She notes the economic implications, underscoring that mummification was predominantly reserved for the elite due to its cost and complexity.

"The bandaging alone, the amount of linen... it's exorbitant... for the elite, those who can afford it."
[31:58]

The preservation of the body was paramount, as reliance on the natural mummification by the desert was deemed insufficient for maintaining the soul's connection to the body.

The Role of Anubis and Other Deities in the Underworld

Anubis's role extends beyond mummification. He is depicted as a guide and protector in the afterlife, assisting souls in their journey and overseeing the weighing of the heart. This role parallels figures like Charon in Greek mythology.

"He can lead the deceased to the court of judgment... guiding people into the underworld."
[22:28]

Additionally, Anubis's interactions with other deities, such as Osiris and Ra, illustrate the interconnected nature of Egyptian divine roles. Ra's nightly journey through the underworld, battling chaos and ensuring the sun's rebirth each day, further emphasizes the cyclical perception of life and death.

"During the day he sails across the sky, but at night he sails the other way through the underworld and emerges again at dawn."
[46:47]

Evolution of Beliefs and Practices

The episode highlights the dynamic evolution of Egyptian funerary practices and beliefs. From the Old Kingdom's initial concepts of the afterlife to the New Kingdom's elaborate texts and rituals, Egyptian perspectives on death and the hereafter became increasingly complex.

"Everything is evolving... funerary practices and includes mythology."
[41:07]

This evolution was influenced by various factors, including political changes, interactions with neighboring cultures, and internal theological developments.

Conclusion

In wrapping up the series, Tristan Hughes and Dr. Joyce Tyldesley reflect on the enduring legacy of Anubis and the intricate tapestry of ancient Egyptian beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife. The episode underscores the sophistication of Egyptian funerary practices and the profound cultural significance of deities like Anubis in ensuring the continuation of life beyond death.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Joyce Tyldesley:
  "They're obsessed with life and they wanted to make sure their life would continue because they loved life."
  [10:16]

• Dr. Joyce Tyldesley:
  "The heart would be put back into the body... It's not just the practical side of it. It's the religious side as well."
  [28:54]

• Dr. Joyce Tyldesley:
  "It's not a paradise... you have to work... it's not something that you necessarily want to have to do."
  [43:28]

Credits:
Special thanks to Dr. Joyce Tyldesley, Dr. Campbell Price, Andrew Hulse (scripts), Mena Elbazawi (narration), Joseph Knight (editing), Ann Marie Luff (lead producer), and Aiden Lonergan (editor).

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