The History of Egypt Podcast The Egyptian Book of Gates (Complete)
Jan 5, 2026
Dive into the mythical journey of Ra through the Underworld! Witness Ra's perilous adventure as he battles creatures and encounters the rewarded and condemned souls. Explore the symbolic significance of rebirth and cyclical time during his night journey. Discover the dramatic scenes in Osiris' judgment hall, and how Ra unites his celestial aspects. Experience the cosmic finale as Apep faces retribution, leading to Ra's triumphant emergence at dawn. An engaging exploration of ancient beliefs and the timeless struggle between light and darkness!
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Duat As A Structured Nighttime Map
- The Book of Gates maps Ra's night journey through the Duat as twelve hours with gates and guardians.
- It frames the underworld as a structured realm where cosmic order and human behavior connect to divine processes.
Gates Define The Cosmic Hours
- The Book of Gates divides the night into twelve hours, each ending at a gate that must be opened for Ra.
- These gates, guarded by serpents and mummies, structure the narrative and give the text its name.
Moral Order Tied To Eternal Fate
- A central theme is the link between living obligations and rewards or punishments after death.
- The text repeatedly stresses offering, piety, and correct social behavior as the path to the blessed afterlife.
