In ancient Egyptian mythology, Anubis is a well-known god associated with death, embalming, and the afterlife. However, what many may not be aware of is that Anubis also has a female counterpart, his wife, who is named Anput.
The Depiction of Anput, the Female Version of Anubis
The depiction of Anput in ancient Egyptian mythology is both captivating and significant.
Similar to Anubis, she is often depicted as a jackal-headed goddess, symbolizing her connection to death and the afterlife.
The jackal was an animal believed to possess keen senses, particularly in detecting the scent of decaying bodies.
This connection to death and its perception as a scavenger made the jackal an appropriate symbol for the guardianship of souls in the realm beyond.
In some cases Anput is depicted as a regal woman adorned in flowing garments and a majestic crown, exuding an air of grace and power.
As the devoted wife of Anubis, she shares in his divine responsibility as the guardian of the departed, guiding souls on their transcendent journey.
The Role of Anput, the Female Anubis
Anput played a significant role in the funerary rituals of ancient Egypt. She was believed to watch over the mummification process and protect the body of the deceased.
A Goddess of Mourning
Anput was also associated with the embalming process and was invoked to ensure the preservation of the body for the journey into the afterlife.
Anput’s presence is deeply intertwined with the somber rituals of mourning.
She oversees the sacred process of embalming and ensures the preservation of the deceased’s physical vessel for its passage into the afterlife.
Her watchful eyes observe every step, ensuring that nothing disrupts the sanctity of this intricate transformation.
A Protective Patroness
Beyond her association with death and mourning, Anput also assumes the role of a protective deity.
Invoked to shield the departed from malevolent forces, she acts as a spiritual safeguard during the perilous journey through the underworld.
Her divine essence fends off evil spirits, providing solace and reassurance to those making their passage.
She thus guides the soul of the deceased through the perilous journey of the underworld, ensuring their safe passage to the afterlife.
A Guiding Light
In the solemnity of funeral ceremonies and within the sacred confines of tombs, Anput and Anubis stand united.
Together, they guide the souls of the departed, illuminating their path through the labyrinthine realms of the afterlife.
With every step, Anput’s presence offers strength and guidance, ensuring a safe transition to the eternal realm.
Concluding Thoughts about Anput, the Wife and Female Version of Anubis
Anput, the female Anubis, is an embodiment of the duality found within Egyptian mythology.
Her portrayal as a guardian, protector, and guide reflects the ancient Egyptians’ profound reverence for the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Through her sacred duties, she helps to maintain the cosmic balance and honors the eternal legacy of those who have passed.
Claudine Cassar began her professional journey in business, earning a BSc in Business and Computing from the University of Malta, followed by an MSc in International Marketing from the University of Strathclyde and an MPhil in Innovation from Maastricht Business School. At the age of 23, she founded her first company, which she successfully sold to Deloitte 17 years later.
At 45, Claudine made a bold career shift, returning to university to pursue a degree in Anthropology. Three years later, she graduated with a BA (Hons) in Anthropological Sciences. In 2022, she published her debut book, “The Battle for Sicily’s Soul.“