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Why were tomb walls decorated with scenes of daily life in ancient Egypt?

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Ancient Egyptian illustration from the Book of the Dead showing Anubis weighing the soul of the scribe Ani, with gods seated above and hieroglyphic text throughout. — Egyptian art and architecture Anubis weighing the soul of the scribe Ani, from the Egyptian Book of the Dead, c. 1275 bce.

In ancient Egypt, the decoration of tomb walls with scenes of daily life was rooted in the belief that these images magically ensured the perpetuation of life in the hereafter. For the Egyptians, the tomb served as a home for the dead, and these mural decorations—whether in the form of relief sculpture or painted scenes—provided a sense of certainty that the deceased would continue to exist in the next world.12

These depictions functioned as blueprints for immortality. By surrounding the deceased with representations of their earthly existence, such as agricultural activities, banquets, or family life, the Egyptians believed they were magically providing for the needs of the ka (the individual's double or spirit) in the afterlife. Furthermore, these scenes served as a substitute for actual offerings or servants; just as statues were used to replace the practice of burying real attendants, painted images ensured that the deceased would be perpetually supplied with the comforts and necessities of life. Through this artistic practice, the Egyptians sought to secure a safe and successful passage into an eternal existence.3124