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6. MONOTHEISM & REINCARNATION
by what is done in this life. Egyptians embalmed the dead in order that the body might be preserved to follow the soul into the next world. This suggests their belief in resurrection, judgment, rewards, and punishment rather than in reincarnation.
The Book of the Dead was used by the ancient Egyptians as a set of instructions for the afterlife. The Book of the Dead followed a tradition of Egyptian funerary literature that dated back as far as the 26th century BC.
In these teachings, the deceased soul must recite the "declaration of innocence" which is addressed to Osiris and consists of the denial of a series of wrong-doings in order to assure Osiris that he has lived a decent life. The deceased must then address the 42 judges by name and deny a further 42 transgressions (one per judge). The content of some of the statements of denial or the 'negative confession' closely resemble the Ten Commandment of Moses - "I have done no falsehood, I have not robbed, I have not killed men". If the deceased is found worthy he will be taken before Osiris who will lead him to the realm of the blessed. Each part of his body changes until the dead is tranformed as a god.
PIT
EEU
TELLIGTINGEL
WEBADOS
SOUFFE WITH
WYE GEWIST
ANDF
Failing the scale the unworthy are eaten by the demoness Ammut (Great of Death, Eater of Hearts, The Devourer) which is the second death. For those who are unrighteous the life ceases to exist.
Rig Veda the oldest of the Vedas does not contain the concept of reincarnation as taught by Hinduism today. "The soul of the dead is carried up by the fire-god, Agni, who consumes the material body at cremation, to the heavenly worlds where it disports itself with the gods in perfect, carefree bliss. There will be eating and drinking of heavenly food and drink, reunion with father, mother, wife and sons."
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