Ankh

The ankh (crux ansata)- One of my favorite symbols which was (and still is) believed to be the key to eternal life. It was regarded as one of the holiest symbols in Ancient Egypt. Although the origin of the symbol is unknown, there are many parts of the symbol that has conjured up abstract meaning. The Ancient Egyptians believed that it symbolized air and water, the two elements needed to sustain life. People today believe that the symbol itself means the creation of life; the top loop representing the vagina and the cross piece and central support symbolizing the penis and testicles. The two coming together, thus we have the creation of life. Some say it is the key to the doors of the underworld.

The ankh is not only regarded as an ancient holy symbol worn by Ancient Egyptian lovers and fans as well as the followers of the Kemetic Faiths (modern Egyptian, Neo Pagan) but also by those of the Gothic faith. It is not uncommon to find the ankh in many of Ancient Egypt’s art; usually the Gods and Goddesses are holding the ankh. Depending on the art your are looking at, you may find Gods and Goddesses holding up the ankh to a Pharaoh’s mouth as to give eternal life to them. Sometimes the ankh is mistaken for the Christian cross, especially when people go to jewelry stores and regard it as the creativity of the artist. In no way is the origin of the ankh to be regarded as a Christian symbol (other than Coptic, Christianity’s oldest form which originated in Egypt) simply because it has been around longer than Christianity itself.