Modern Tombs

In ancient times, when an individual died, their spirit was believed to continue to live in another life. In this life, the deceased needed certain mortal objects to aid in their surivival of their new life. These objects included: Shawabtis, Amulets that provided protection or luck, Funereary Relief Monuments, and Votives. Some of these objects were placed directly into the tomb so the deceased could easily access them in the afterlife while the others were left so the living could remember the deceased.  Below are links to some actual funerary objects and some modern equivalencies that would be used today.

Male Figure with a Cypriot Belt:

The statue from ancient Cyprus, was carved from limestone, and served as a votive in ancient Cypriote religious sanctuaries.

(c. 530 - 520 BCE)
 shawabti Servant Figure (shawabti) of King Taharqa:

Shabtis, also known as shawabtis or ushabtis, were Egyptian objects that were placed in the tomb with the deceased.  They were thought to be a replacement for the individual in the aftelife.

(c. 690 - 664 B.C.E.)

Funeral Relief of No'om, Wife of Haira, Son of Maliku:

From the Syrian city of Palmyra, this funerary monument was believed to hold and protect the deceased person's personality or soul.

(c. 150 CE)

The double-headed bird pendant:

An amulet from the Luristan culture. It provided protection against evil and was fastened to a horse’s rein or on a belt.

(c. 800-600 BC)

So, in today's society, what would important individuals take into their afterlives??? 
Below are links which explain what some important figures in today's society would have in their Modern Tombs.





Michael Jordan:
-NBA superstar, the famous 23.  Now has a shoe and clothing line named after him.  Very successful individual who is known by pretty much everyone.   







Oprah Winfrey:
-Popular TV star who has been in everyone's living room with free advice and gifts.		 Micahel Jackson:
-Popular young star turned controversial.  Started with a stellar career however, he soon saw that fall fast with legal acusations made toward him.		 George W. Bush:
-Hated and loved.  Present day President who has made some controversial decisions.