ankh

The ankh is an ancient hieroglyphic symbol originating in ancient Egypt that was used to represent the word for life. Referred to often as the key of life and the key of the Nile, it represented eternal life in Ancient Egypt. An ankh is shaped like a cross, but instead of a continuing its vertical rise above the crossbar, there is a teardop-shaped loop. It is much used as a symbol of the Coptic Orthodox Church and is seen by many as a talisman symbolizing protection and well-being and was traditionally buried with pharaohs. A modified version is used on Ethiopian Crosses and in Christianity it also a symbol of afterlife.