The sense that the world of the living was so similar to the land of the dead is shown by the ease of communication that existed in ancient Egypt between the two realms. The dead could communicate with the living, and the living had access to the land beyond. Contact could be initiated by either side. The messages from the living to the dead were usually practical rather than philosophical. The living did not seek omens or advice from the beyond, but instead hoped to enlist the support of the dead with everyday matters – resolving disputes, gaining power over rivals, or securing the favor of the gods or protection from divine or human enemies.

Less controlled, and hence more dangerous, were the messages initiated by the dead. When satisfied with offerings, the dead spirits were benign. But when dissatisfied for any reason, they were capable of creating all sorts of mayhem on earth. Their displeasure could be manifested as haunting, evil omens, or illness. In some cases, the cause of unexpected, and according to the sources, unwarranted evil, was “any dead man or woman.” Other texts refer to the “eye of the dead person” that could bring misfortune.

Akh Spirits

Most beyond-the-grave communications were between a living person and an akh, or “transfigured spirit,” an aspect of a person's energy and personality that was manifested after death.