Question

For thy sake I have rejected wickedness. I have done no hurt unto man, nor have I wrought harm unto beasts. I have committed no crime in the place of Right and Truth. I have had no knowledge of evil; nor have I acted wickedly. Each day have I laboured more than was required of me...I have caused no wrong to be done to the servant by his master. I have caused none to feel pain. I have made [no man] to weep. I have not committed murder; nor have I ever bidden any man to slay on my behalf. I have not wronged the people.

Background information: This excerpt comes from the Egyptian Book of the Dead, which gives instructions regarding how to reach the Egyptian afterlife. Upon arriving at the Hall of Justice, where one enters the afterlife, the dead soul had to swear to this statement:

What key principles of Egyptian culture are contained in this statement? Select all that apply.

Gaining of material wealth.
Working very hard.
Emphasizing the importance of family.
Living a religious life.
Respecting those above you.

Answer 1

- Working very hard. — The speaker emphasizes labor ("Each day have I laboured more than was required of me"), showing hard work as a virtue.
- Living a religious life. — The oath invokes Right and Truth (maat) and is part of a ritualized, moral-religious declaration required for the afterlife.

(Not selected: gaining material wealth and emphasizing family are not mentioned; "respecting those above you" is not supported—the passage stresses justice and not abusing others, not deference to superiors.)