- Embalming was the process of preserving a dead body by treating it with various chemicals and materials to prevent decomposition. The ancient Egyptians believed that the body was the vessel for the soul, so it was important to preserve it for the afterlife.
- The embalming process could take up to 40 days and was performed by specially trained priests.
- First, the body would be washed with water and natron (a natural salt) to remove any impurities.
- The internal organs would then be removed and placed in jars, which would be buried with the body.
- The body would then be packed with natron and other materials to help absorb any remaining moisture and prevent decomposition.
2. Mummification
- After embalming, the body would be wrapped in linen bandages. This process was known as mummification and it was believed to protect the body from damage in the afterlife.
- The bandages were wrapped tightly around the body, starting from the head and working downward.
- Amulets and other objects were often placed between the layers of bandages to protect the body from evil spirits.
3. Burial
- Once the mummification process was complete, the body would be placed in a coffin and buried in a tomb.
- The coffin was often decorated with paintings and hieroglyphs that depicted the deceased person's life and accomplishments.
- The tomb was also decorated with paintings and hieroglyphs, and it was often filled with grave goods such as food, clothing, and jewelry.