Apis was the sacred bull worshipped at Memphis as a living manifestation and herald of the god Ptah.
Unlike many Egyptian gods represented primarily in human or animal-headed form, Apis was embodied by an actual bull selected by priests. The chosen animal had to display distinctive markings, including a white triangular patch on its forehead and other prescribed features. It lived in a temple at Memphis, where people sought omens from its movements and believed its presence brought strength and healing.
Apis worship was connected especially with Ptah, the chief god of Memphis. After an Apis bull died, it was associated with Osiris and called Osorapis, a development that later contributed to the Hellenistic deity Serapis. This layered identity explains why ancient sources sometimes emphasize Apis's links with Osiris as well as Ptah.
Apis should not be confused with Hapi, the Nile-flood deity, or with Mnevis and Buchis, other regional sacred-bull cults. The major burial complex for Apis bulls was the Serapeum at Saqqara.