The Egyptian Book of Gates

"The Egyptian Book of Gates" is an ancient Egyptian funerary text dating from the New Kingdom period. It narrates the passage of a newly deceased soul into the next world, journeying with the sun god, Ra, through the underworld during the hours of the night towards his resurrection. The soul is required to pass through a series of 'gates' at each hour of the journey, each guarded by a different serpent deity associated with a different goddess. The text includes depictions of the judgment of the dead, implying that some souls will pass through unharmed, while others will suffer torment in a lake of fire.

Erik Hornung's translation provides a comprehensive and accessible version of these ancient texts, offering insights into the religious beliefs, rituals, and cultural practices of ancient Egypt. This volume presents detailed commentary and analysis, making it an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian mythology and funerary practices.