Symbolism

I'm working on this glossary of terms and symbolism as used in Ancient Egypt. More will be added constantly.

Ankh: The original meaning of the Ankh derives from the hieroglyphic sign which means life. In ancient Egypt, the Gods held the ankh symbolizing them as the "bringers of life". As a symbol, the Ankh indicates the divine, eternal existence, and is often referred to as the Key of Life. Some think it was the origin of the cross used in other religions around the world.

Cartouche: A French word for a bullet shape tablet was attributed to the oval ring which encircles the names of Pharoahs in hieroglyphics. The cartouche is also called Shenu and was believed to be the power that protected the Pharaohs in the underworld.

Mummy Beads: Also called SHA meaning luck in ancient Egypt, were made of glazed quartzite faience and were used to beautify the shrouds covering the outer linen of the mummies giving them the nick name of mummy beads. Nowadays, the small disc beads and the longer tube beads are used for jewelry.

Sha: See Mummy Beads

Shenu: See Cartouche