The Secret of the Egyptian Mummification Process The Egyptian mummification process was a complex and highly ritualistic process which aimed to preserve the body of the deceased. This process was a closely guarded secret by the ancient Egyptians and was considered a crucial aspect of their religious beliefs. The process began with the removal of all internal organs, except for the heart, which was believed to be the seat of the soul. These organs were then placed in jars known as canopic jars, which were typically kept near the mummy in the tomb. The body was then washed with water and natron, a type of salt that was used to dry out the body and prevent decomposition. The body was then packed with a mixture of materials such as linen, sawdust, and resin, which provided support and helped to maintain the body’s shape. Next, the body was wrapped in multiple layers of linen bandages soaked in resin, which acted as a preservative. Amulets and other decorative objects were often placed within the wrappings to provide protection and guidance in the afterlife. Finally, the body was placed in a wooden coffin and, in some cases, multiple layers of coffins, which were then sealed in a tomb. The mummification process was a painstaking and time-consuming process, often taking up to several months to complete. It was reserved for the wealthy and elite members of society, who could afford the necessary materials and rituals. While the process itself was a closely guarded secret, it is thought that the priests who carried out the mummification were respected members of society and had specialized knowledge of anatomy and embalming techniques.

Overview

The Ancient Egyptians were keen believers in the concept of the afterlife and the resurrection of both the body and soul. Those set of beliefs originated from their observations across their daily life such as the sun falling across the western horizon each evening and then being reborn once again the next morning in the east. The ancient Egyptian soil would sprout new life from the planted grain. The moon would change its shape each year. The ancient Egyptians believed in a sense of balance, law & order, and the promise of a new life after death. They utilized many scientific tools and procedures in order to preserve the dead which is called the mummification process which was performed by highly skilled specialists. This honorable tradition was a rite of passage for all the ancient Egyptians to seek to enter the afterlife.