The figure associated with the afterlife and knowledge in Egyptian lore is Thoth. Often depicted as an ibis or a baboon, Thoth is considered the god of wisdom and writing. He played a crucial role in the judgment of souls in the afterlife, helping to maintain balance and order through his mastery of knowledge. Thoth was also believed to have invented hieroglyphs and recorded the deeds of the deceased, ensuring their immortal status. His influence is seen in various aspects of Egyptian creation myths and religious practices, highlighting the importance of knowledge in both life and afterlife.