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By Witchipedia, Deities

What is Psychopomp & Its Role: Guide of Souls

Updated on:

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Written by: Dawn Black (Witchipedia)

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Reviewed by: Tina Caro

The word psychopomp literally means “guide of souls”. It derives from the Greek psychopompos or ψυχοπομπός

Psychopomps guide souls through the spirit world and into the afterlife. They may guide living practitioners through the spirit world as well and assist with astral projection.

Many Gods and spirit creatures are considered psychopomps as are quite a few mundane creatures including several species of birds, horses, dogs and rabbits, varying by culture.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A psychopomp is a spiritual guide responsible for escorting souls to the afterlife in various religious and mythological traditions.

This role involves leading the deceased from the physical world to the realm of the dead, ensuring a safe and guided transition. In Greek mythology, Hermes serves as a psychopomp, while in Egyptian mythology, Anubis fulfills this role.

Psychopomps are often depicted as compassionate and knowledgeable beings, helping to ease the fear and uncertainty associated with death, and are essential in maintaining the balance between the living and the dead.

What is a Psychopomp?

The term “psychopomp” comes from Greek and means “he who accompanies souls.” These mythological figures are present in many cultures and spiritual traditions, tasked with guiding the souls of the deceased from life to the afterlife.

Psychopomps are often depicted as spiritual guides, assisting souls in navigating the transition from earthly life to the beyond.

AttributeDescription
DefinitionA psychopomp is a being, deity, or entity in various mythologies and religions tasked with escorting souls to the afterlife or guiding them through the realms of the dead.
EtymologyDerived from the Greek words “psyche” (soul) and “pompos” (guide or conductor).
NaturePsychopomps are often seen as benevolent guides who facilitate the transition from the physical world to the spiritual realm, ensuring safe passage for souls.
Table: Definition and Nature of a Psychopomp

History of the Psychopomp

Psychopomps appear in many ancient cultures, such as Greek, Egyptian, and Norse mythology. In Greek mythology, the god Hermes was a psychopomp who guided the souls of the deceased into the afterlife.

Similarly, in Egyptian mythology, Anubis served as a psychopomp, aiding souls in their transition from life to death. These guides play a crucial role in accompanying our soul through all stages, including the ethereal.

Statuette of Anubis. Ptolemaic Period

The Role of the Psychopomp

The primary role of the psychopomp is to escort the souls of the deceased to the afterlife. In many spiritual traditions, the psychopomp is seen as a spiritual guide who helps souls overcome the fear of death and find peace.

They assist souls in navigating the challenges and trials they encounter on their journey to the afterlife.

Concept/RoleDescriptionSignificance
Guide of SoulsPsychopomps guide souls from the earthly realm to the afterlife.Ensures that souls reach their intended destination and do not become lost or trapped.
MediatorActs as a mediator between the living and the dead.Facilitates communication and understanding between realms.
ProtectorProvides protection to souls during their journey to the afterlife.Ensures safe passage and shields souls from malevolent entities.
CounselorOffers comfort and guidance to the dying and their families.Eases the transition and helps the living cope with loss.
Table: Key Concepts and Roles

Psychopomps in Contemporary Culture

Psychopomps have been reimagined in contemporary culture through art, literature, and cinema, where they are depicted as spiritual guides aiding in the transition from life to death.

Charon, the ferryman of the dead, receives a coin from a soul guided by Hermes (Mercury) in his role as psychopomp

They are also integrated into modern spiritual practices, serving as tools to connect with the afterlife and help the souls of the deceased find peace.

Culture/RegionDeity/EntityDescriptionAttributes
GreekHermesGuides souls to the underworld.Winged sandals, caduceus.
EgyptianAnubisOversees mummification and guides souls to the afterlife.Jackal head, scales for weighing hearts.
NorseValkyriesEscorts souls of fallen warriors to Valhalla.Warrior maidens, often depicted with wings.
RomanMercurySimilar to Hermes, guides souls to the underworld.Winged helmet, staff.
IndigenousShamanic FiguresGuides souls and communicates with the spirit world.Various rituals and tools depending on the culture.
Table: Notable Psychopomps in Various Cultures

The Role of the Psychopomp in Shamanism

In shamanic traditions, the psychopomp invokes spiritual guides, deceased spirits, and animals for support and protection during journeys into the spiritual realm. Tools like drums, songs, prayers, and dances are used to enter a trance state and connect with the spiritual world.

Shamanic psychopomp work may involve traveling to meet the soul of the deceased and accompanying it to the afterlife or using visualization techniques to ease its transition.

This work often involves collaboration with the relatives of the deceased, who offer prayers and blessings to assist the soul’s passage.

The Role of the Psychopomp in Spiritual Practice

Psychopomps are used in various spiritual practices to connect with the afterlife and assist deceased souls in finding peace. Many spiritual traditions, including indigenous spirituality, use meditation and prayer practices to invoke psychopomps as guides.

Contemporary practices like reiki and meditation often include visualization techniques that call upon the psychopomp to help souls navigate their transition.

Comparison with Other Spiritual Roles

RoleCulture/RegionPrimary FunctionUnique Attribute
PsychopompVariousGuides souls to the afterlife.Acts as a mediator and protector during the transition.
ShamanIndigenous CulturesHealer, spiritual leader, and guide to the spirit world.Enters altered states of consciousness to communicate with spirits.
AngelChristianity/IslamMessenger and protector of human souls.Serves as intermediaries between God and humans.
BansheeCelticWarns of impending death with wailing.Acts as a harbinger rather than a guide.

How to Find Your Psychopomp?

Finding your psychopomp involves several steps. Start by studying different psychopomps across cultures to identify resonant symbols or deities.

Create a sacred space for meditation and visualization, calling out to your guide in a serene, imagined environment.

Dream work, shamanic journeying, and divination can also facilitate this connection.

Engage in rituals and spend time in nature, being mindful of significant animal encounters or signs. If needed, seek guidance from a spiritual mentor.

With consistent practice and openness, you can establish a meaningful connection with your psychopomp.

Conclusion

Connecting and working with your psychopomp is a powerful way to explore your spirituality, feeling supported and guided through all stages of self-exploration and spiritual growth.

Approach this practice with openness, respect, and a willingness to learn and listen, aiming to become the most spiritual version of yourself.

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About Morningbird (Witchipedia's Founder)

I am a homesteading hearth witch who grew up along the shores of the Hudson River and has lived among the Great Lakes for the past 20 years. Together with my musical husband and youngest child, I steward a one-acre mini homestead with herb, vegetable and flower gardens, chickens, ducks, geese and rabbits, and areas reserved for native plants and wildlife. 

I have three children; two are grown, and I have been practicing magick alone and with family and friends for over 30 years.

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