New Kingdom
Book of the Dead: Chapter 1 (Opening Formula)
c. 1550–1070 BCE
Chapter 1 of the Book of the Dead is the processional hymn spoken at the funeral, as the deceased's mummy is carried to the tomb. The Papyrus of Ani (c. 1275 BCE), now in the British Museum, contains the finest illustrated version. This opening formula presents the deceased before Osiris and proclaims his worthiness to enter the afterlife.
1
Beginning of the chapters of going forth by day,
2
Words spoken by the Osiris Ani,
3
the great scribe of the offerings of all the gods,
4
true of voice, lord of reverence.