The Sacred Process

Mummification in ancient Egypt was a complex and sacred process that took approximately 70 days to complete. The procedure began with the removal of internal organs, except for the heart, which Egyptians believed was the center of intelligence and emotions. These organs were carefully preserved in special canopic jars, each protected by a specific deity. The body was then covered with natron, a natural salt with drying properties, which prevented decay by removing all moisture from the body.

The Ritual and Preservation

After the drying period, embalmers would begin the intricate wrapping process using hundreds of meters of linen bandages. Between the layers, priests would place amulets and recite spells to protect the deceased in their journey to the afterlife. The face was often covered with a decorated mask, the most famous example being Tutankhamun's golden death mask. The wrapping process alone could take up to 15 days, as each bandage needed to be carefully placed while prayers were chanted.

The Journey to Afterlife

The Egyptians believed that preserving the body was crucial for the soul's journey through the afterlife. They viewed death not as an end, but as a transition to another realm where the deceased would need their physical body. The mummified body would be placed in an ornate sarcophagus along with various items the person might need in the afterlife - food, jewelry, furniture, and even pets. This meticulous preservation process reflected their deep religious beliefs and complex understanding of the relationship between the physical and spiritual worlds.Shutdown123