Home »
Fitness Strategies Network »
When Did Ankh Begin?
When Did Ankh Begin?
Maya Lin-Takahashi••6 min read
The ankh is an ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic
Egyptian hieroglyphic
The term "ideogram" is often used to describe symbols of writing systems such as Egyptian hieroglyphs, Sumerian cuneiform and Chinese characters. However, these symbols represent elements of a particular language, mostly words or morphemes (so that they are logograms), rather than objects or concepts.
symbol, one of about 1000 characters to have been used since c.3200 BC. Much of this early writing has been discovered on papyrus and wood, sometimes in a ceremonial grave, designed to safely accompany the soul on its journey to the afterlife.
When was ankh created?
The earliest dated ankh symbol that archeologists have discovered is dated to 3,000 BC or 5,000 years ago, used by the First Egyptian Dynasty. There is evidence, however, that the Ankh was used even before this in Mesopotamia and Persia. The Ankh is a cross-like symbol with a loop at the top.
What is the origin of ankh?
The ankh symbol—sometimes referred to as the key of life or the key of the nile—is representative of eternal life in Ancient Egypt. Created by Africans long ago, the ankh is said to be the first--or original--cross.
Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.
