Anubis - Invocation & Altar Guide

Introduction to Anubis: The Egyptian God of the Afterlife Anubis is one of the most recognizable and revered gods in Egyptian mythology, known as the god of the afterlife, mummification, and protector of graves. He is a complex deity who plays a pivotal role in the journey of the soul after death, overseeing rituals that prepare the dead for their passage into the afterlife. Anubis’s presence is both comforting and fearsome, embodying the balance between death and the promise of a peaceful afterlife.

Attributes and Symbolism of Anubis Appearance: Anubis is typically depicted as a man with the head of a black jackal or as a full jackal, representing his connection to death and the grave. The black color symbolizes both the decay of the body and the fertile soil of the Nile, linking death with rebirth. Symbolism: Protector of Graves: Anubis guards the tombs of the dead, protecting them from desecration. His jackal form reflects his association with cemeteries, as wild jackals often roamed burial grounds in ancient Egypt.

Guide to the Afterlife: Anubis is often depicted leading souls into the underworld, where he presides over the weighing of the heart ceremony, ensuring the soul is pure and ready to enter the afterlife. Nethertheless, He was also known in Egipt as the God of Mummification - the god who presided over embalming and mummification, Anubis ensures the dead are properly prepared for their journey, preserving the body to house the soul.

Sacred Symbols: Scales - Anubis is often shown with the scales used in the weighing of the heart, a ritual that determined whether the deceased had lived a virtuous life. 

Embalming Tools: Symbols associated with mummification, such as bandages and embalming instruments, reflect Anubis’s role in preserving the dead.

Myths and Legends of Anubis: The Weighing of the Heart: One of the most famous depictions of Anubis is during the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony, where he measures the heart of the deceased against the feather of Ma’at, the goddess of truth and justice. If the heart was lighter than the feather, the soul could pass into the afterlife. If heavier, the soul would be devoured by Ammit, the soul-eater.

Anubis and Osiris: Anubis is closely linked with Osiris, the god of the dead and resurrection. In some myths, Anubis is described as the son of Osiris and Nephthys, though this varies in different texts. Anubis assisted in the embalming of Osiris, which set the standard for all future mummification rituals.

Protector of Isis: In certain tales, Anubis aids Isis, the mother of Horus, by protecting the body of Osiris from the wrath of Seth, Osiris’s brother. This protective aspect highlights Anubis's role in safeguarding both the living and the dead.

Worship and Devotion: Anubis was worshiped throughout Egypt, particularly in areas associated with burial practices. Temples dedicated to him, such as those at Lycopolis (modern-day Asyut), were places where priests performed rituals to honor him and seek his guidance. Devotees often left offerings at his altars, including food, incense, and amulets, believing that his favor would protect them in life and death and would guide their life to a greater purpose and meaning!

Creating an AnubisAltar: An altar dedicated to Anubis serves as a sacred space to honor the Egyptian God of the afterlife, mummification, and protection. Setting up an Anubis altar allows you to connect with his energies, seek guidance on matters of the spirit, and work with his protective aspects in your rituals. This guide will help you create an altar that reflects the symbolism and attributes of Anubis, creating a powerful focal point for worship, meditation, or magical work.

Key Components of an Anubis Altar:  Altar Cloth -  Begin with an altar cloth in a dark color, such as black, deep purple, or dark blue, representing the mystery of the night and the underworld. Gold

accents can be added to honor Anubis’s divine status.

Statues or Images of Anubis: A central feature of your altar should be a statue, image, or representation of Anubis. This serves as the focal point of your altar and symbolizes his presence in your space. Statues of Anubis in his jackal form or as a man with a jackal head are traditional and readily available.

Black Candles: Black candles symbolize Anubis’s connection to the underworld and his protective nature. Place one or more black candles on the altar to represent the guiding light Anubis provides to souls journeying through the afterlife. Light these candles during rituals or meditation to invoke his energy and to ask for his guidance through your darkest days!

Keys: Keys symbolize Anubis’s role as a gatekeeper and protector of the underworld. They can represent access to hidden knowledge, spiritual paths, and protection against unwanted spirits. Place old or decorative keys on the altar as offerings or symbols of unlocking spiritual wisdom.

Skulls or Bone Symbols: Skulls and bones are powerful symbols of death, transformation, and the cycle of life—core aspects of Anubis’s domain. Use ethically sourced or symbolic representations, such as carved skulls or bone amulets, to connect with the energies of the afterlife.

Scales of Justice: A small representation of scales, whether as a miniature statue, image, or symbolic drawing, honors Anubis’s role in the Weighing of the Heart ceremony. This reminds us of the importance of living a balanced and just life.

Offerings: Traditional offerings to Anubis include incense (such as myrrh,frankincense, or sandalwood), wine, bread, and dark chocolate. Place these offerings on your altar in gratitude or as a request for guidance. Keep the offerings fresh and dispose of them respectfully when they are no longer needed or used in the ritual.

Crystals and Stones: Incorporate crystals such as obsidian, onyx, or jet, which resonate with Anubis’s protective and grounding energies. These stones can aid in spiritual protection and enhance the altar’s connection to the underworld.

Anubis Amulets or Sigils: Place amulets or symbols associated with Anubis, such as the Eye of Horus for protection or the Ankh for eternal life, on your altar. These Items can be worn during rituals or kept on the altar as a permanent offering.

Arranging Your Anubis Altar:

Centerpiece: Place the statue or image of Anubis in the center of the altar, creating a clear focal point.

Candles: Position the black candles on either side of the statue, ensuring that they are safely anchored if lit. These can be accompanied by smaller tealights or votives if desired.

Offerings and Symbols: Arrange keys, skulls, scales, and other symbolic items around the main statue, creating a balanced and harmonious layout. Ensure that there is space to place offerings when needed, and when you place them, do it nicely and in order.

Crystals and Amulets: Scatter crystals and amulets across the altar, placing them where they feel most energetically balanced. Use these items during rituals or meditations focused on Anubis.

Personal Touches: Add personal touches to the altar that resonate with your connection to Anubis, such as written prayers, images, or objects that hold spiritual significance for you.

Working with Your Anubis Altar

Daily Devotions: Light a candle and offer incense daily or weekly to honor Anubis. Speak prayers, invocations, or silent intentions to connect with his energies.

Protection Rituals: Use the altar as a focal point when performing protection spells or meditations. Invoke Anubis’s guidance to shield your home or spirit from negative influences.

Ancestor Work: Anubis’s connection to the dead makes this altar an ideal space for ancestor work. Place photos or mementos of departed loved ones on the altar to seek their guidance or pay respects.

Soul Guidance: When facing difficult decisions or needing spiritual guidance, meditate before the altar to connect with Anubis’s wisdom as a guide of souls.

Anubis, the Egyptian god of the afterlife, mummification, and protector of graves, is associated with a variety of correspondences that reflect his attributes and roles. Incorporating these items into rituals, altars, and spells can help you connect with Anubis’s energy and invoke his guidance.

Colors:

Black: Symbolizes the underworld with all its mysteries, protection, and the fertile soil of the Nile, representing both death and rebirth.

Gold: Gold represents divinity, immortality, and the sacred role of Anubis as a guide and protector of souls.

Silver: Connects with the moon, intuition, and Anubis’s role in guiding souls through the darkness.

Deep Blue or Purple Reflects mystery, spiritual insight, and connection to theunseen realms.

Correspondences of Anubis:

Herbs and Incense:

Frankincense: Used for purification, protection, and spiritual elevation; often burned in rituals honoring Anubis.

Myrrh: Associated with embalming and mummification, myrrh connects deeply with the energies of the afterlife.

Cypress: Represents mourning, protection, and the transition between life and death.

Wormwood: Used in necromancy and spirit work, aiding in connecting with the dead.

Rosemary: Associated with remembrance, protection, and honoring the deceased.

Stones and Crystals:

Onyx: Provides protection, grounding, and shielding, making it ideal for connecting with Anubis’s protective aspect.

Obsidian: A powerful stone for grounding and protection; used to ward off negative energies and connect with the underworld.

Jet: Known for its protective qualities and connection to death and mourning rituals.

Black Tourmaline: Shields against negative energies and enhances spiritual grounding, resonating with Anubis’s protective nature.

Hematite: Provides grounding and stability, reflecting Anubis’s role in guiding souls through the afterlife

Symbols and Imagery:

Jackal: Anubis is often depicted as a black jackal or a man with a jackal head, representing his connection to cemeteries and the afterlife.

Scales of Justice: Symbolizes Anubis’s role in the Weighing of the Heart ceremony, determining the fate of souls.

Keys: Represent access to hidden knowledge, gates of the underworld, and the protection of sacred spaces.

Ankh: The ancient Egyptian symbol of life, often associated with Anubis’s power over death and rebirth.

Black Candles: Used in rituals to invoke Anubis’s protection and guidance through darkness.

Bone or Skull Imagery: Reflects death, transformation, and Anubis’s connection to the deceased.

Embalming Tools: Symbolic of his role in mummification and preparing the dead for the afterlife.

Invocation to Anubis: Calling upon Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife, can provide guidance, protection, and support in navigating the mysteries of life and death. Below are both formal and informal invocations that can be used in rituals, meditations, or as part of personal prayers to connect with Anubis’s energies and ask for His Protection.

Formal Invocation to Anubis:

O Anubis, Guardian of the Dead, Lord of the Sacred Land,
Jackal-headed guide through the realm of shadows,
You who stand at the threshold of life and death,
Keeper of the scales and protector of souls,
I call upon you in this sacred space.
Anubis, Master of Mummification,
Preserver of the body and guide of the spirit,
Grant me your guidance as I walk the path of mystery.
Shield me with your divine protection,
And weigh my heart with fairness and truth.

Guide me through the darkness, O Lord of the Duat, 
Illuminate my path as I seek wisdom and clarity.
May your jackal eyes watch over me,
And may your presence be a light in the shadows.
Hail, Anubis, great guardian and guide,
I honor you now and forevermore.

Informal Invocation to Anubis:

Anubis, Guardian of the Underworld, I call to you.
Guide me with your wisdom and protect me with your strength.
You who stand between the living and the dead,
Be my shield in times of darkness and uncertainty.
Watch over my spirit and those I love,
Granting peace and safe passage through all transitions.
May your presence be a comfort in the night,
And your guidance a beacon in times of need.
Hail, Anubis, my protector and guide.

Short Invocation for Daily Guidance:

Anubis, Keeper of the Scales,

Guide my steps with fairness and truth.

Protect me from harm, seen and unseen,

And light my way through all shadows.

I honor you, Anubis, today and always.

Invocation for Protection:

O Anubis, Shield of Souls,

Stand guard at my side with your mighty jackal form.

Protect this space and all within,

From spirits unkind and forces unknown.

With your power, I am safe and secure.

Hail, Anubis, my steadfast protector.

Offerings to Anubis:

Offering gifts to Anubis, The Egyptian god of the afterlife and protector of the dead, is a powerful figure to honor, inviting his presence into your rituals and spiritual practices. Appropriate offerings reflect his attributes and roles, including his connection to mummification, protection, and guidance of souls. Below are some suggestions for offerings that can be made to Anubis at an altar, during rituals, or

as part of personal devotions. 

 Bread and Wine:

 Bread, especially dark or dense types, represents sustenance for the journey of the soul.

 Wine  symbolizes blood, life, and the spirit’s journey and was often used in ancient rituals to honor gods and spirits. Offering bread and wine to Anubis is a gesture of respect and connection.

Incense: Incense such as frankincense, myrrh, and sandalwood are deeply connected to Anubis and ancient Egyptian rituals. Burning these can purify the space, honor Anubis’s role in the embalming process, and create a sacred atmosphere. The smoke is said to carry your prayers to the divine.

Bones or Bone Imagery: Symbolic bones, ethically sourced bones, or images of bones are suitable offerings, reflecting Anubis’s guardianship over the dead and his association with the cycle of life and death. These can be used to connect with

his protective and transformative energies.

Black Candles: Black candles represent Anubis’s connection to the underworld and protection. Lighting these candles as an offering can be used to honor him and seek his guidance during rituals or meditations

.

Keys: Keys symbolize access to hidden knowledge, protection, and Anubis’s role as the gatekeeper of the underworld. Offering keys, whether old, decorative, or symbolic, can signify a request for guidance and protection through spiritual transitions.

Dark Chocolate or Sweets: Dark chocolate, honey, or sweet treats symbolize appreciation and the nourishment of the soul. These offerings align with the ancient tradition of providing sustenance to the gods and can be placed on the altar in Anubis’s honor.

Symbols of Protection: Amulets such as the Eye of Horus, Ankh, or scarab represent protection, life, and rebirth. These symbols resonate with Anubis’s guardianship and can be offered as tokens of respect or used in rituals dedicated to protection.

Water or Milk: Offering water or milk reflects purity, life, and the sustenance of the soul. These liquids can be placed on the altar in small bowls as a gesture of reverence and a call for spiritual nourishment.

Coins or Grave Goods: Coins or small objects reminiscent of grave goods are traditional offerings symbolizing the ancient Egyptian practice of burying items with the dead for their journey. These offerings honor Anubis’s role in preparing souls for the afterlife.

Sacred Herbs and Flowers: Herbs like rosemary, cypress, and juniper are associated with remembrance, protection, and the spirit realm. Fresh or dried herbs, along with flowers like lilies or lotus, can be offered to create a sacred connection with Anubis.

How to Offer to Anubis

Placement: Place your offerings on the altar dedicated to Anubis, near his statue or image. Arrange them thoughtfully to reflect the intent of your devotion or ritual.

Invocation: Light incense or candles and recite an invocation or prayer to Anubis, acknowledging his presence and the purpose of your offering.

Respectful Disposal: Once the offerings are no longer needed, dispose of them respectfully, either by burying, burning, or releasing them into flowing water, symbolizing the completion of your ritual or devotion to this special and unique Ancient God.

Rituals for Protection and Guidance with Anubis:

Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife, mummification, and protector of graves, is a powerful ally in rituals seeking protection, guidance through life transitions, and connection with the spirit world. Invoking Anubis in your magical work can provide a sense of security, spiritual insight, and assistance in navigating uncertain times. Below are some suggested rituals and spells to call upon Anubis’s aid.

1. Anubis Protection Ritual

Purpose: To invoke Anubis’s protective energies, creating a shield against negative influences or spiritual threats.

Materials:

Black candle

Frankincense or myrrh incense

Onyx or obsidian stone

A small key or symbol of protection.

Steps:

Create Sacred Space: Cleanse the ritual area by burning incense and focusing on clearing negative energy. Arrange your items on an altar or dedicated space with an image or statue of Anubis at the center.

Light the Black Candle: As you light the candle, visualize a protective barrier forming around you, infused with Anubis’s energy.

Invocation: Recite the following or similar words: “Anubis, Guardian of the Gates, Protector of Souls, I call upon your strength. Shield me from harm, seen and unseen, and protect this sacred space. Let no negativity pass through your watchful eyes. Hail, Anubis, my protector and guide.”

Empower the Stone: Hold the onyx or obsidian in your hands, charging it with your intent for protection. Place the stone on the altar as an offering, asking Anubis to empower it and protect you!

Seal the Ritual: Pass the key through the incense smoke, asking Anubis to “lock” your protective shield in place. Keep this key on your person or near your door for ongoing protection.

Close the Space: Thank Anubis for his protection, extinguish the candle, and dispose of offerings respectfully.

2. Guidance through Transitions Spell

Purpose: To seek Anubis’s guidance during times of change, uncertainty, or personal transformation.

Materials:

Deep blue or black candle

Sandalwood incense

A small feather (symbolizing the weighing of the heart)

Bowl of water

Steps:

Set Up the Altar: Place the candle, incense, feather, and bowl of water on your altar. Position the image of Anubis prominently.

Light the Candle and Incense: As you light them, take a few deep breaths, focusing on Anubis’s presence guiding you through your transition.

Invocation: Speak the following: “Anubis, Wise Guide of Souls, I stand at the crossroads of change. Illuminate my path with your ancient wisdom, and lead me through this time of transition. Help me to release the old and embrace the new with courage. Hail, Anubis, guide me on my journey.”

Feather Ritual: Hold the feather above the bowl of water, imagining it floating lightly on the surface. Visualize your heart becoming light and clear, unburdened by fear or doubt. Drop the feather into the water as a symbol of your willingness to trust the process of change.

Meditate and Listen: Spend a few moments in quiet reflection, allowing any insights or messages from Anubis to come through.

Close the Ritual: Thank Anubis for his guidance, extinguish the candle, and pour the water at the base of a tree or plant as an offering.

3. Spirit Connection Ritual with Anubis

Materials:

Black and silver candles

Frankincense incense

Skull imagery or bone symbol

A small offering of bread or wine

Purpose: To connect with the spirit world under Anubis’s guidance, offering protection and clarity during communication with the deceased or spirit guides.

Prepare the Space: Cleanse your altar with incense smoke and arrange your items. Place an image or statue of Anubis at the center, flanked by the candles.

Light the Candles: As you light the black and silver candles, invite Anubis to be your guide and protector during this spirit connection.

Invocation: Say: “Anubis, Lord of the Underworld, I seek your protection as I connect with the spirit realm. Guard me as I walk between worlds, and guide my communication with those beyond the veil. Hail, Anubis, Guardian of Souls.”

Spirit Offering: Place the bread or wine on the altar as an offering to Anubis and any spirits you wish to connect with. Speak the names of ancestors, spirit guides, or the deceased you wish to communicate with, inviting them respectfully.

Meditate and Commune: Sit quietly, allowing the presence of Anubis to shield you while you listen for messages or signs. Keep a journal nearby to record any insights.

Close and Give Thanks: Thank Anubis and any spirits for their presence, extinguish the candles, and consume or respectfully dispose of the offering.

Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife, is a powerful ally in ancestral communication and connecting with the spirit realm. As the protector of graves and guide of souls, Anubis provides a safe and sacred space for those seeking to honor their ancestors, communicate with departed loved ones, or receive guidance from spirit guides. His presence offers protection, wisdom, and the ability to navigate the spiritual realms with confidence. 

Techniques for Connecting with Ancestors through Anubis

Scrying with Anubis for Ancestral Guidance: Scrying is a powerful tool for connecting with the spirit world. When working with Anubis, scrying can be particularly effective in seeking messages from ancestors or spirit guides.

Materials:

A black mirror, bowl of water, or obsidian stone for scrying

Black candle

Frankincense or sandalwood incense

An image or statue of Anubis

Set the Space: Create a sacred space with an altar dedicated to Anubis. Place the black mirror, bowl of water, or obsidian stone at the center, and light the black candle and incense.

Invocation to Anubis: Begin with an invocation: “Anubis, Guardian of the Veil, I seek your guidance as I reach out to my ancestors. Stand beside me as I look into the shadows and reveal the messages they wish to share. Hail, Anubis, guide of souls.”

Focus on the Scrying Tool: Gaze into the mirror, water, or stone, allowing your vision to soften. Open your mind to any images, symbols, or impressions that appear. Trust the process and remain patient.

Receive Messages: Allow the visions or feelings to flow, interpreting them as guidance from your ancestors. Keep a journal handy to record any insights or messages you receive.

Close the Session: Thank Anubis and your ancestors, extinguish the candle, and offer a final prayer of gratitude for the guidance received.

Meditation with Anubis for Ancestral Connection:

Meditation is an excellent way to create a direct line of communication with ancestors under Anubis’s protection. This practice allows for a deep, personal connection and the opportunity to receive wisdom and healing from those who have passed.

Materials:

Black or deep blue candle

Quiet space for meditation

A small object or photo representing your ancestors

Technique: Prepare the Space: Light the candle and place the object or photo representing your ancestors on the altar. Sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths to center yourself.

Working with Anubis in Ancestral Communication:

Invocation: Call upon Anubis with a prayer: “Anubis, Guide of Spirits and Keeper of the Sacred Land, I invite you into this space. Protect me as I seek to commune with my ancestors. Open the gates of memory and spirit, that I may hear their voices and receive their guidance.”

Enter Meditation: Close your eyes and visualize a path leading to the realm of the ancestors. Imagine Anubis walking beside you, guiding you safely through the veil. Allow any images, sensations, or messages from your ancestors to come through.

Receive and Reflect: Spend time in this meditative state, allowing the presence of your ancestors to be felt. Ask questions or simply listen, knowing Anubis is there to guide and protect the connection.

Close the Meditation: When ready, thank Anubis and your ancestors, and gently return to your surroundings. Record your experiences in a journal to reflect on later.

Offerings to Anubis for Ancestral Communication:

Offering rituals are a way to honor both Anubis and your ancestors, inviting their presence and guidance into your life. This simple yet powerful act strengthens your connection and shows reverence for the spirits you wish to engage with.

Materials:

Offerings such as bread, wine, incense, or flowers

An image or statue of Anubis

Personal items or photos of ancestors.

Technique: 

Set Up the Altar: Arrange your offerings on the altar, placing personal items or photos of your ancestors alongside an image of Anubis. Light incense or a candle to signify the beginning of the ritual.

Invocation: Speak the following: “Anubis, Keeper of the Keys and Protector of Souls, I offer these gifts in your honor. May you guide my ancestors to this space and bless our connection. Ancestors, I honor you with these offerings. Speak to me, guide me, and walk with me on my path.”

Present the Offerings: Take a moment to reflect on the offerings, imagining your ancestors and Anubis receiving them with gratitude. Speak any personal words or prayers, inviting the wisdom of your ancestors into your life.

Sit in Silence: Spend a few moments in quiet reflection, listening for any subtle signs or feelings of connection. Allow yourself to feel the presence of your ancestors and Anubis.

Thank and Release: Close the ritual by thanking Anubis and your ancestors for their presence and guidance. Dispose of the offerings respectfully, either by burying, burning, or placing them in nature.

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