Breathing Permit of Hôr

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JSP Papyri Fragment I

Partial Reconstruction of Book of Breathing for Horos from Joseph Smith Papyri

Facsimile 3 Printing Plate

Abraham Facsimile 1

JSP Papyri Fragment I

Breathing Permit of Hôr is an ancient Egyptian document that has garnered significant attention due to its association with the Book of Abraham, a work of scripture in the Latter Day Saint movement. The Breathing Permit of Hôr, or the Book of Breathings, is a funerary text that was intended to ensure the deceased's ability to breathe in the afterlife, a crucial aspect of their journey through the Duat (the Egyptian underworld).

Origins and History

The Breathing Permit of Hôr dates back to the Ptolemaic Period (305–30 BC), a time when Egypt was under the rule of the Greek Ptolemaic dynasty. This era is known for its blending of Egyptian and Greek cultures, which is reflected in the religious texts of the time, including the Book of Breathings. The document was created for a Theban priest named Hôr, and it was designed to be placed among the mummy wrappings to ensure that Hôr could breathe in the afterlife.

Content and Purpose

The text is a shorter version of the more well-known Book of the Dead, focusing specifically on ensuring the deceased's ability to breathe, speak, and maintain control over their body in the afterlife. It contains spells, prayers, and rituals to protect the deceased from the dangers of the underworld and guide them through the judgment of the dead, presided over by Osiris, the god of the afterlife.

The Book of Abraham Connection

The Breathing Permit of Hôr gained prominence in the 19th century when it was purchased by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Smith claimed to translate the document into the Book of Abraham, which he presented as a divinely inspired addition to the scriptural canon of the Latter Day Saint movement. The translation and its authenticity have been subjects of controversy and debate both within and outside the Latter Day Saint community.

Modern Analysis and Controversy

Modern scholars, particularly Egyptologists, have analyzed the Breathing Permit of Hôr and have concluded that Joseph Smith's translation does not match the content of the original Egyptian text. This discrepancy has led to significant discussion regarding the nature of Smith's translation process, the meaning of the term "translation" in this context, and the spiritual versus historical value of the Book of Abraham.

Conclusion

The Breathing Permit of Hôr remains an important artifact in the study of ancient Egyptian funerary practices and the history of the Latter Day Saint movement. Its significance lies not only in its original purpose to ensure the well-being of the deceased in the afterlife but also in its role in the development of Latter Day Saint scripture and the ongoing dialogue about faith, scholarship, and the interpretation of ancient texts.