In Egyptian mythology, the purpose of the Book of the Dead was to guide the deceased through the afterlife. This collection of spells and prayers was meant to help individuals navigate the challenges of the underworld and ensure a safe passage to the afterlife. The text detailed the moral codes expected of the living, emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior and the consequences of one's actions. Through this work, Egyptians believed that knowledge of the afterlife could lead to eternal life, illustrating their profound understanding of life, death, and moral responsibility.