The Twelve Gates: A Spiritual Journey Through the Egyptian Book of the Dead | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Seekers | Perfect for Meditation, Spiritual Growth & Historical Study

I found this work very helpful in a number of ways. First, it helped to define death and people's reactions to this mysterious process in a number of cultures. But most of the book (Chapters 2-5) is about Egyptian symbolism and death rituals. Second, the ancient Egyptians were preoccupied with life, not death as often thought, and by understanding the various traditions past and present, I think it helps us to understand our individual part in the cycle of life, death, and "return." Chapters 3 and 4 were of special interest because they allow one to imagine the gates and perhaps obtain a glimpse of the Egyptian perception of life from that distant past. I especially enjoyed the dreams, which, if followed closely, tell you something about each Gate in the Underworld. Chapter 5 acts as a statement of living - healthy, helpful, and non-hurtful. The way to those 3 noble truths is by knowing one's self, seeking knowledge, and being a decent person. I know from Rush's other works he isn't a Christian but those are the exact statements and true meaning of Jesus! I give this high marks.