The Significance, Meaning, and Overall Depiction of the Afterlife During the Ancient Times

In these ancient times, 3000 B.C - 1000 A.D, it was believed that after a loved one died, their spirit would leave the body and  live on in a different life.  Since, the deceased person would live again they would need important things to survive  in the afterlife.  Some of these things include: personal objects used by the deceased while alive, gifts from the living called kterismata, and amulets that provided protection or luck during the afterlife.  All of these objects were placed in the tomb of the deceased.

More on Ancient Mediterrean Amulets:

Using Egyptian synonyms of the word amulet, it means to guard, protect, and provide well-being. As mentioned above, an amulet provided one with power, protection, and luck.  However, these objects were used by the living as well as the deceased.  While alive, amulets were worn as jewelry with every outfit.  These amulets were apart of everyday life.  For the deceased, the amulets were simply placed in the tombs to exude its powers as the mummy crossed over into the afterlife.

Ancient Mediterranean Amulet:

This particular funerary relief, located in the Ackland Museum,  embodies many different amulets which were buried with a body for many different reasons. The double-headed bird pendant is an amulet from the Luristan culture that dates from 800-600 BC. It provided protection against evil and was fastened to a horse’s rein or on a belt. The rein on the neck of the birds depicts the owner’s power over the birds. This could be interpreted as the owner’s power over evil. Therefore, this amulet was buried along with the deceased individual in confidence that the person would be protected from evil in the afterlife.


Modern Day Amulets:

That's right amulets are still used today!  It is very common to see someone wearing a cross , heart, or even amethyst as jewlery in everday attire.  The cross symbolizes the protection and promise of Jesus Christ.  The heart represents love and devotion and it usually worn by couples.  The beautiful mineral amethyst is worn to evoke love, power, and luck.