This ancient Egyptian funerary text describes the journey of the sun god Ra through the underworld during the hours of night. Each of the twelve gates represents one hour of darkness and is populated with various deities, demons, and obstacles that Ra must overcome to be reborn at dawn. Illustrations often accompany the text, depicting these encounters in vivid detail, providing rich insights into Egyptian beliefs surrounding death, rebirth, and the cosmos.
Serving as a guide for the deceased pharaoh to navigate the afterlife, this symbolic nocturnal voyage represented the cyclical nature of existence and the promise of renewal. Its presence within royal tombs underscores its significance in ensuring the pharaoh’s successful transition into the realm of the gods. Study of this document offers valuable understanding of ancient Egyptian cosmology, religious practices, and the development of their intricate belief system.
