Book Of The Dead
Timo Kotipelto Lyrics

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[Bonus track]

Since ancient times there's been
A need for some security
To make sure that after death
Our lives go on in eternity
We must be prepared
For our travel through the night

Without proper guidance
We'll be lost, never seeing the light

I am ready for
What lies ahead
I'll be guided by
The book of the dead

I've made sure that I can leave
My tomb when necessary
I've got the spells surrounding me
On the walls they are forming a scenery
A satisfactory afterlife
I know is secured
I feel the magic coming to me
And from all illness I will be cured

I am ready for
What lies ahead

I'll be guided by
The book of the dead

Overall Meaning

The song "Book of the Dead" by Timo Kotipelto seems to be an ode to the ancient Egyptian belief in the afterlife. The first verse speaks of the long-standing human desire to ensure that our existence continues even after our physical death, and how it necessitates some kind of assurance or guidance. The next lines say that without this guidance, we will be lost in the darkness of the night without ever seeing the light.

The second verse further explains the steps taken by people in the past to ensure their afterlife. They created tombs and inscribed magical spells on the walls to create a scenario where they will have a proper afterlife. They believed that they needed to achieve a satisfactory afterlife and be magically cured of all illnesses. And finally, the chorus declares that the person is ready to face whatever lies ahead and will take guidance from the book of the dead.

Line by Line Meaning

Since ancient times there's been
Since the beginning of time, there has always been

A need for some security
A desire for safety and assurance

To make sure that after death
To guarantee that following death

Our lives go on in eternity
Our existence continues forever

We must be prepared
It's imperative to make provisions

For our travel through the night
For our journey in the afterlife

Without proper guidance
In the absence of adequate direction

We'll be lost, never seeing the light
We'll wander aimlessly, unable to move forward

I am ready for
I am prepared for

What lies ahead
What awaits me

I'll be guided by
I'll be led by