Akh

Akh


 * Other Names:**

//Akhu, Khu, Ikhu//


 * Meaning of Name:**

"Transfigured Spirit," "Shining One," or "Luminous One."

The //Akh// was part of a person's vital force, and when a person died it was believed that their spirit, or //Akh//, acquired magical power. The Egyptians thought the //Akh// was a radiant light, something like a star. Occasionally it was pictured as a heron or Hermit Ibis. The Pyramid Texts tell us that when a man dies, his //Akh// goes to heaven to dwell with the gods. In order for an //Akh// to be made, the deceased person's //Ba// must unite with the //Ka//. Letters and offerings were left at the deceased's tomb in hopes that the //Akh// would watch over those still on earth.

Parts of the Soul