Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • An Egyptian deity: Anpu is the Egyptian god associated with tombs, mummification, and the afterlife. He is considered a protector of graves and a guide for souls in the underworld. He is traditionally depicted with the head of a jackal.

Usage Notes

• "Anpu" is the name of a specific god from ancient Egyptian mythology. It is a proper noun and is typically capitalized.
• This term is used primarily in historical, archaeological, and mythological contexts when discussing ancient Egyptian religion and beliefs about the afterlife.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The priests made offerings to Anpu to ensure safe passage for the deceased.
  • Images of Anpu, with his distinctive jackal head, were common in burial chambers.

Advanced Usage

• In mythological narratives: The name "Anpu" is used when recounting stories or describing the pantheon of Egyptian gods.
  • In the myth, Anpu weighs the heart of the deceased against the feather of Ma'at.

Variants and Related Words

• Anubis: This is the more commonly known Greek name for the same Egyptian god. "Anpu" is the original Egyptian name.
  • The god known to the Greeks as Anubis was called Anpu by the ancient Egyptians.

Synonyms

• Anubis: The Hellenized (Greek) name for the same deity.
• Guardian of the dead: A descriptive term for his role.
• Psychopomp: A general term for a deity who guides souls to the afterlife.

Related Phrases & Concepts

• God of mummification: Describes one of Anpu's primary functions.
• Opener of the ways: A title sometimes associated with Anpu/Anubis in his role as a guide.
• Weigher of hearts: Refers to his specific duty in the judgment of the dead, as depicted in the Book of the Dead.

Noun

1. Egyptian god of tombs and ruler of the underworld; usually depicted as a man with the head of a jackal