Osiris is the ancient Egyptian God of the afterlife, fertility, resurrection, plants, and the dead.
A complex and contradictory deity, he’s also the brother and partner of Isis, and the father of Horus — who was conceived by Isis during Osiris’ brief resurrection.
About Osiris
Osiris is the son of Geb, the God of the Earth, and Nut, the Goddess of the sky. His brothers are Heru-ur (or Horus the Elder), Nepthys, and Set, and his sister and wife is Isis.
He’s generally shown as a very handsome man, whose face has either black or green skin. He wears a tall, conical white crown with curling, multi-colored ostrich feathers, and carries a gold and lapis crook and flail. He’s dressed all in white with a red sash, but his lower body is wrapped up in the manner of a mummy.
The name Osiris is a Latinization of the original Egyptian wsjr. This would have been written in hieroglyphics, which lack vowels. That means that Osiris’ name might have originally been pronounced as Asar, Usir, Wesir, or some variation thereof.
Scholars have given several potential meanings for this name, including “the Mighty One,” “something made,” “one who bears the eye,” or “male principle.”
Osiris was the first pharaoh. It’s said that his brother, Set, was overcome with jealousy at his royal position, but other sources claim that Osiris had kicked Set, or possibly slept with his consort, Nephthys.
Set hatched a plan to get rid of his brother. He had a beautiful and elaborate casket made to Osiris’ exact measurements, held a great banquet to show it off, and claimed that he’d give it as a gift to whoever could fit inside.
All of the gods climbed in one by one, but none of them could manage to fit it just right. Finally, Osiris took his turn. As soon as he was situated within the casket, Set shut it up tight, sealed it with lead, and threw it into the Nile.
Isis mourned for her husband as she searched for the casket. It floated off down the Nile, eventually ending up in Byblos (modern day Lebanon).
Over time, a tamarisk tree grew around it, trapping Osiris’ body inside. Isis managed to track him down and recover his corpse.
Over time, the story of Osiris and Isis changed. Eventually it was said that Set dismembered Osiris, cutting his body into as many as forty-two pieces and scattering them all across Egypt. Isis was forced to find each of these pieces and reassemble her husband. (According to Plutarch, she was unable to find Osiris’ phallus and had to recreate it with magic.)
After either finding Osiris’ body or putting it back together, Isis, Thoth, and Anubis embalmed him to restore him and stop the process of decay. Osiris was resurrected, and Isis conceived his son, Horus.
As powerful as this resurrection magic was, it was sadly temporary. When it eventually wore off, Osiris passed to the Underworld where he lived as the God of the Duat, the realm of the dead. His death and resurrection connect him to cyclical aspects of nature, like life, death, the flooding of the Nile, and the return of vegetation along its banks.
Circa 2686–2181 BCE, pharaohs were considered the sons of Ra, the God of the sun. It was thought that, after their deaths, they would ascend to dwell with him in the heavens. Osiris gradually took Ra’s place here, and it was then thought that pharaohs would rise from the dead and dwell with him eternally.
Some experts think that Osiris may have once been a mortal man — a ruler who was ascended to godhood through the power of his legends. This ruler may have been the basis for the shepherd god Andjety, who was associated with Osiris through the iconography of his shepherd’s crook and flail.
Osiris is further connected to sheep through his ba. This is something between an essence and a god’s personal power and influence. Ba is also the word for ram, and Osiris’ ba was frequently depicted as a sheep.
Priests at Mendes kept a living sacred ram who was worshipped as a manifestation of Osiris. When these sacred rams would die, they’d be mummified and placed in a special burial site.
Interestingly, this ram aspect of Osiris may have been the origin of Baphomet. The ancient Greeks referred to it as “the goat of Mendes,” which some scholars of esotericism link to the goat-headed figure Baphomet.
Symbols & Associations
Osiris is associated with the growth of plants, death, mummification, fertility, resurrection, rebirth, and the cycles of nature. His symbols are:
- Atef Crown: The Atef crown is a tall white crown flanked by curly ostrich feathers. It’s a symbol of Osiris’ royal status and his connection to the divine. The white color of the crown represents purity and sacredness, while the ostrich feathers symbolize truth and justice.
- Shepherd’s Crook: The shepherd’s crook is a hooked staff associated with herding sheep. It symbolizes Osiris’ role as a shepherd of souls in the afterlife, guiding them through their journey. The crook also represents leadership and authority, reflecting Osiris’ status as a king.
- Flail: The flail is a tool used for threshing grain. It symbolizes Osiris’ connection to agriculture and fertility. The flail also represents the power and authority of the pharaoh, reinforcing Osiris’ royal status.
- Mummy Wrappings: Osiris is depicted as partially mummified, covered in wrappings from the waist down. This symbolizes his association with death and the afterlife. The mummy wrappings also represent Osiris’ resurrection, a key aspect of his mythology.
- Black or Green Skin: Osiris is often depicted with black or green skin. The black skin symbolizes the fertile black soil of the Nile valley, reinforcing Osiris’ connection to fertility and agriculture. The green skin represents rebirth and the regeneration of life, reflecting Osiris’ role in resurrection and the cycles of nature.
- Rams and Ostriches: Osiris is also associated with rams and ostriches. The ram symbolizes strength, power, and leadership, while the ostrich, specifically its feathers, symbolizes truth and justice.
These symbols and associations reflect Osiris’ roles as a god of the afterlife, fertility, resurrection, and agriculture, and his importance in maintaining the balance and order of the universe.
Powers
- Ruler of the Dead: As the ruler of the dead, Osiris has the power to judge the souls of the deceased. He guides the souls through the afterlife, determining their fate based on their actions during their lifetime. This power makes him a crucial figure in the ancient Egyptian understanding of life, death, and the afterlife.
- Life and Fertility: Osiris is closely associated with the flooding of the Nile River, a natural event that brought life to the otherwise arid lands of Egypt. This connection gives him the power to grant new life and fertility, both in terms of agriculture and human reproduction. His power is seen in the growth of plants and the prosperity of the people.
- Resurrection: One of the most significant aspects of Osiris’ mythology is his resurrection. After being killed by his brother Set, Osiris was resurrected by his wife Isis. This power of resurrection extends beyond his personal story, as he is also believed to grant new life to the souls in the afterlife.
- Rebirth and Cycles of Nature: Osiris’ death and resurrection connect him to the cyclical aspects of nature, such as the seasons and the cycle of life and death. He has the power to bring about change and transformation, symbolizing the hope of renewal and rebirth.
- Kingship: Osiris was the first pharaoh, and he holds the power of divine kingship. He represents the ideal ruler, just, and caring for his people. This power extends to the afterlife, where he rules over the dead.
These powers reflect Osiris’ roles as a god of the afterlife, fertility, resurrection, and kingship. His abilities make him a crucial figure in the Egyptian pantheon, a guide for the souls of the deceased, and a symbol of hope and renewal.
Offerings
Appropriate offerings to Osiris include:
- Bread: Bread was a staple food in ancient Egypt and a common offering to the gods. Offering bread to Osiris symbolizes nourishment and sustenance, acknowledging his role in providing for the people through the fertility of the land.
- Meat: Meat was a valuable food item in ancient Egypt and was often offered to the gods during religious ceremonies. Offering meat to Osiris can be seen as a gesture of respect and honor, acknowledging his status as a powerful deity.
- Beer: Beer, especially barley beer, was a common drink in ancient Egypt and was often used in religious offerings. Offering beer to Osiris can be a way to honor him and acknowledge his role in agriculture and fertility.
- Wine: Wine was a luxury item in ancient Egypt and was often associated with the gods. Offering wine to Osiris can be seen as a gesture of respect and reverence, acknowledging his status as a god of the afterlife and resurrection.
- Alabaster stones or objects: Alabaster was a valuable material in ancient Egypt, often used for carvings and other decorative objects. Offering alabaster to Osiris can be a way to honor him and acknowledge his divine status.
- Fine clothing: Offering fine clothing to Osiris can be seen as a gesture of respect and honor. This can also symbolize the desire for Osiris’ protection and guidance, as clothing can represent protection and comfort.
- Frankincense: Frankincense is a type of resin that produces a fragrant smoke when burned. It was often used in religious rituals in ancient Egypt. Offering frankincense to Osiris can be a way to create a sacred space and invite his presence.
- Myrrh: Like frankincense, myrrh is a type of resin that produces a fragrant smoke when burned. It was often associated with the gods and the afterlife in ancient Egypt. Offering myrrh to Osiris can be a way to honor him as a god of the afterlife and resurrection.
- Kyphi: Kyphi is a type of Egyptian temple incense. It was often used in religious rituals, particularly in the evening to mark the end of the day. Offering kyphi to Osiris can be a way to create a sacred space and invite his presence.
- Cedar: Cedar was a valuable wood in ancient Egypt, often used for building and for making furniture. Offering cedar to Osiris can be a way to honor him and acknowledge his status as a powerful deity.
- Pine: Pine was not native to ancient Egypt but was imported and was often associated with the gods. Offering pine to Osiris can be a way to honor him and acknowledge his divine status.
These offerings can be used in various ways to honor and connect with Osiris. You might place them on an altar, use them in rituals, or simply offer them with a prayer or intention. Always remember to offer with respect and sincerity.
Signs Osiris is Calling You
If Osiris is calling you, you may dream of him. He’s typically depicted as a handsome man with black or green skin, a tall white crown with ostrich feathers, a crook and flail, and mummy wrappings around his legs. You may also dream of his sacred ram.
You might also experience a lot of synchronicities related to Osiris. This can include seeing his name or image in random places, or coming across plants or animals associated with him in places that you don’t expect. You might see rams, ostriches, or crocodiles, for example.
Osiris may be calling you if you feel drawn to work with the dead. He is a deity of death and rebirth, so his influence may urge you to work as a death midwife or mortician, or simply to volunteer your time bringing flowers to untended graves.
Crystals Associated with Osiris
Osiris is connected to the following crystals:
- Alabaster: Alabaster is a white stone often used for carvings and other objects. It’s mentioned in a list of traditional offerings for Osiris. Alabaster symbolizes purity and spiritual illumination. It’s often used in spiritual practices to promote peace and tranquility, aligning with Osiris’ role as a guide in the afterlife.
- Lapis Lazuli: This is a blue stone associated with royalty, wisdom, and truth. Lapis Lazuli was highly prized in ancient Egypt and was often used in jewelry and amulets. Its deep blue color is reminiscent of the night sky, aligning with Osiris’ role as a god of the afterlife. Lapis Lazuli can help enhance intellectual ability, stimulate the desire for knowledge, and aid in the process of learning, making it a fitting stone for those seeking to connect with Osiris’ wisdom.
- Malachite: Malachite is a green stone known for its protective qualities. It’s said to assist with journeys to the Underworld, making it a fitting stone for those seeking to connect with Osiris’ energy. Malachite is also associated with transformation and rebirth, reflecting Osiris’ role in resurrection and the cycles of nature.
These crystals can be used in various ways to connect with Osiris’ energy. You can meditate with them, place them on your altar, carry them with you, or incorporate them into rituals or spellwork.
Remember to cleanse and charge your crystals regularly to maintain their energy.
Herbs Associated with Osiris
As a God of vegetation, Osiris is associated with all kinds of plants. Some Kemetic practitioners say that they don’t often connect crystals to Osiris, but feel his energy through working with plants.
Some specific herbs associated with him include:
- Gum Arabic: Gum Arabic is a resin from acacia trees. It was often used in ancient Egyptian religious rituals, including mummification and embalming. Offering Gum Arabic to Osiris can be a way to honor his role as a god of the afterlife and resurrection.
- Barley: Barley was a staple crop in ancient Egypt and was often associated with Osiris due to his connection to agriculture and fertility. Barley was also used to make beer, a common offering to the gods. Offering barley to Osiris can be a way to acknowledge his role in providing for the people through the fertility of the land.
- Coconuts: While not native to ancient Egypt, coconuts can be associated with Osiris due to their hard exterior and life-giving interior, symbolizing the process of death and rebirth that Osiris oversees.
- Dates: Dates were a common fruit in ancient Egypt and were often associated with fertility and abundance. Offering dates to Osiris can be a way to honor his role in fertility and growth.
- Palm: The palm tree was a symbol of resurrection in ancient Egypt due to its ability to produce new shoots even when cut down. Palm leaves were often used in funerary rites, aligning with Osiris’ role as a god of the afterlife.
- Pine: Pine was not native to ancient Egypt but was imported and was often associated with the gods. Offering pine to Osiris can be a way to honor him and acknowledge his divine status.
- Cedar: Cedar was a valuable wood in ancient Egypt, often used for building and for making furniture. Offering cedar to Osiris can be a way to honor him and acknowledge his status as a powerful deity.
These herbs can be used in various ways to connect with Osiris’ energy. You might burn them as incense, use them in teas or baths, incorporate them into spellwork, or use them to dress candles.
Always remember to use herbs respectfully and safely, considering any potential allergies or interactions.
Working with Osiris
Osiris is a powerful deity whose legends shaped much of ancient Egypt’s religion and society.
He’s associated with the very thing that allowed life to thrive there — namely, the flooding of the Nile. To work with him, you should start by learning his story and the role that he played to the people who first worshipped him.
If you feel so inclined, you may wish to make a space for him. Since he’s a deity of vegetation, a garden altar could be a good choice.
Pick a place that you’ll be able to visit often and keep clean easily. Adorn it with an image of Osiris, a bowl or plate for offerings, and an incense burner.
You can also add a vase for flowers, crystals connected to Osiris, and images of his symbols or sacred animals. If you can, procure some temple incense (frankincense, myrrh, or kyphi, traditionally burned at dawn, noon, and dusk) to burn.
Visit this place often, and don’t let it become dusty or neglected.
You may also wish to work with Osiris by taking up gardening. He’s a deity of death and the Underworld, but also the return of life. You can see his energy at work as the seasons change, turning from the dead of winter to the revival of spring.
Serving the dead or dying can also connect you to his energy. You can learn the skills to be a death midwife, and help the dying as they make their final journey.
You can also simply visit neglected graveyards, dust off old tombstones, and leave fresh flowers to the untended dead.
Osiris was a vitally important god in ancient Egypt, to the point where he was sometimes simply referred to as “God.”
He represents the natural cycles that govern all things, and the triumph of life over death. If you’re ready to heed his call, answer him. His powers and wisdom are vast.