The Book of the Dead, Saite through Ptolemaic Periods, A Study of Traditions Evident in Versions of Texts and Vignettes, Volume 3 (BD Spells 31-49))

This is the third volume of the series, covering spells BD 31 to 49, where BD 31 to 42 are spells to drive off crocodiles and serpents that could attack the deceased in the latter's quest for life after death, BD 43 to 47 represent a collection of spells to protect the body in the tomb, and BD 48 to 49 assist the deceased in going forth by day, an ancient Egyptian expression for going forth from the tomb and thereby achieving life after death. Like Volume 1, translations (with transliterations) for each version of text for these spells are provided, the versions of vignettes are identified, discussions accompany the texts and illustrations, and numerous photographic facsimiles are included to allow one to examine the original texts and vignettes. Volume 1 is essential to understanding the methodology and conventions used throughout. This series is primarily aimed at the Egyptological community, but the translations and illustrations may be of interest to the general reader with curiosity about the spells, what they represent, and what was of value to the ancient Egyptians.… (more)