It looks like a cross with a loop at the top, and you've seen it in jewelry, tattoos, and t-shirts. The Ankh is one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt. I'll tell you what it means, where it comes from, and why it remains so prevalent today.
What is the Ankh?
The Ankh is an Egyptian hieroglyph that means "life". It is shaped like a cross with a loop at the top, and that is why it is sometimes called "the cross of life" or "the key of life".
It is a symbol of life, but also of eternal life, that is, of what continues after death.
Where it appears in Egyptian art
It is seen in tomb paintings, reliefs, and objects. In many scenes, the gods hold the Ankh and bring it to the pharaoh's nose or lips, as if giving them the breath of life.
It is believed that the same word was also used to mean "mirror", something that is sometimes associated with the idea of reflection and rebirth.
What shape does it have and why?
It is not known for certain. There are several theories: that it represents the knot of a sandal strap, that unites two symbols (masculine and feminine, sometimes associated with Osiris and Isis), or that it represents the sun rising over the horizon. None are confirmed, and that is why it remains a mysterious symbol.
From Ancient Egypt to today
Coptic Christians in Egypt adopted a version of the Ankh, the "crux ansata", as a cross. In the 20th century it became fashionable again and was associated with cultural and spiritual movements, including currents that reclaim African heritage. Today it appears in jewelry, tattoos, and fashion.
Gold and Art Deco
In Ancient Egypt, gold was associated with the gods and with eternity, that is why it was often said to be the "flesh of the gods". And the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 unleashed an Egyptian fever that influenced Art Deco, with its geometric lines and its gold.
Our t-shirt brings the two together: a golden Ankh inside an Art Deco geometric pattern, on a dark background.
Other Egyptian symbols worth knowing
The Ankh is not the only one. If you like this topic, these are other well-known Egyptian symbols:
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The Eye of Horus: protection, health, and royal power.
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The scarab: rebirth and the sun that rises every day.
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The Djed pillar: stability and strength.
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The Was scepter: power and dominion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to wear an Ankh?
Life, protection, and rebirth are the most common meanings, but each person gives it the meaning they want.
Is it a Christian cross?
Not exactly. The Ankh predates Christianity, although Coptic Christians in Egypt adopted a variant, the "crux ansata".
Who can wear it?
Anyone, as long as they know its history and wear it with respect.
How it is worn
Discover it at MysticBohoCo
If you like this symbol, you can see it on this t-shirt: