In Greek mythology, the boatman who required payment to transfer souls to the underworld was named Charon. According to legend, Charon was the son of Erebus, the god of darkness, and Nyx, the goddess of night. He was often depicted as a tall, thin figure with a hooded cloak and a staff.
In ancient Greek mythology, it was believed that after death, the souls of the deceased would be ferried across the river Styx to the underworld by Charon. However, in order to gain passage, each soul was required to pay a toll to Charon in the form of a coin placed on the tongue of the deceased. Those who were unable to pay the toll were condemned to wander the shores of the river Styx for 100 years.
The story of Charon and the river Styx was an important part of Greek mythology and was often depicted in art and literature. It was also a popular motif in funerary art, with many tombstones and sarcophagi featuring images of Charon and the souls he ferried across the river Styx.
Today, the story of Charon and the river Styx continues to capture the imagination of people around the world and remains an important part of our cultural heritage.
Azriel, also known as Azrael, is an angel of death in various religious traditions. Azriel is believed to be responsible for separating the soul from the body upon death, and for recording the name of the person in the book of death.
The origins of Azriel can be traced back to ancient Jewish, Hebrew, and Celtic Beliefs, “Aingeal Arc an Bháis”, where he is referred to as the “Angel of Destruction” or the “Angel of Death.” In Jewish tradition, Azriel is one of the four archangels, along with Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
In Islamic tradition, Azriel is known as “Malak al-Maut,” which means “Angel of Death.” It is believed that he is responsible for taking the souls of the deceased, and that he is assisted by a host of subordinate angels.
In Christian tradition, Azriel is not mentioned specifically in the Bible, but is referenced in various apocryphal texts. He is often depicted as a grim reaper-like figure, wielding a scythe and draped in black robes.
Throughout history, Azriel has been a symbol of death and mortality, but also of transition and transformation. As the angel responsible for guiding souls to the afterlife, he is often associated with new beginnings and rebirth. In modern times, Azriel continues to hold a place in popular culture and mythology. He has been the subject of numerous works of art, literature, and film, and remains a powerful symbol of the mysteries of death and the afterlife.
“PAY THE COINS, OWED TO THE BOAT KEEPER”
