Tilapia was a symbol of rebirth in Egyptian art, and was in addition associated with Hathor. It was also said to accompany and protect the sun god on his daily journey across the sky. Tilapia painted on tomb walls, is reminiscient of spell 15 of the "Book of the Dead" by which the deceased hopes to take his place in the sun boat: "You see the tilapia in its form at the turquoise pool", and "I behold the tilapia in its [true nature guiding the speedy boat in its waters."