Egyptian scarab

The scarab is one of the fundamental symbols of Ancient Egypt, and is often portrayed on temple sculptures and in tomb paintings.

 The Egyptian word for the scarab is « kheper », which means « to come into being »;  therefore, for the Egyptians the scarab was the image of the primordial god who is self-created.  Pushing with its rear legs a dung ball in which it has laid its eggs, the scarab was assimilated with the Sun god Rê.

 Just like Rê who reappears each morning out of the darkness, the scarab was a symbol of rebirth and was given, aside from its powers of creation, supernatural powers.  It was considered a protective symbol, assisting the soul of the deceased.