Ancient Egyptians developed a complex method for preserving corpses known as mummification. This process not only showcases their meticulous nature but also conceals numerous secrets about their spirituality and religious beliefs.
The ancient Egyptian mummification process consists of 8 steps:
Step 1: The priest (responsible for rituals), the high priest, and the embalmers use water from the Nile River and palm wine to cleanse the body.
Step 2: The priest removes the easily decayed internal organs. These organs are then preserved separately in boxes or jars known as canopic jars. Later, they are buried with the mummy. The heart is left intact because it is believed to be the seat of the soul and intelligence. The deceased will need it in the afterlife.
Step 3: The embalmers remove pieces of brain tissue and fluids from the skull.
Step 4: The embalmers eliminate all moisture from the body using a type of salt that has drying properties to cover the body and also insert natron packets inside. Natron is a substance that inhibits the decomposition process. Once the body is completely dry, the natron packets are removed and resin is applied all over the body to help the skin retain elasticity.
Step 5: The priest uses water from the Nile to wash away any remaining salt in the deceased’s body. Afterward, some sunken areas on the body are filled with linen and other materials, including the placement of artificial eyes.
Step 6: Hundreds of meters of linen are used to wrap each finger, toe, and the entire body.
Step 7: The priests place amulets between the layers of linen in the hope that they will assist the deceased in safely transitioning to the afterlife. The mummy is then placed in a coffin.
Step 8: The priest wears the mask of the god Anubis and recites prayers and incantations to complete the rituals, guiding the deceased to the afterlife to enjoy eternal life with the gods.
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