Inheriting the rule of Egypt when his father abdicated, the god Osiris taught his subjects how to make tools, cultivate crops, brew beer, and make music. He brought civilization to the Nile Valley by instituting laws and founding religion. He incurred the jealousy of his brother Set, however, who had him trapped and exiled, then murdered and cut into pieces. Osiris’ wife Isis was able to reassemble most of his body, however, and resurrect him. Forgoing the opportunity to rule Egypt once again, he chose instead to go west following the sun and rule the land of the dead. In preparation for his journey and new life, Isis embalmed him. Thereafter, the dead came to Osiris to be judged for admission to the underworld where their souls could reside safely forever. The heart of each petitioner was weighed against the feather of truth. The final judgment could be influenced by magic or by temple offerings. The promise of eternal life was a powerful lure, and Osiris drew many followers. Osiris is usually portrayed wrapped in embalming linens.
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