The Egyptian ankh is a familiar symbol seen as ankh charms, on decorative items, on T shirts and many other places in the modern world. It is similar in appearance to the Christian cross with a loop above the bar. It's origins are still a mystery but it's meaning is clear. It is the Egyptian hieroglyph for 'eternal life' and is seen in decorative work in tombs and on household objects left in the tombs, which were either shaped in the form of an ankh or decorated with this symbol.

The Origins of the Ankh

There are many theories about it's origins ranging from a knot used on ceremonial or religious garments, a stylised sandal strap or as a sexual symbol. The most popular theory is that it represents an elaborate bow with the lower section often being comprised of two parts which make up the tails of the bow. The ankh is carried in depictions of Egyptian gods and clearly symbolises life in these images. It is often seen being offered to a king as a symbolic 'breath of life' and ankhs were often symbolised as flowing in chains from water vessels symbolising it's life giving properties. Vessels used for water containers in religious ceremonies were often made in the shape of an ankh.