The idea that only kings and officials were mummified is a common misconception that likely stems from the fact that the most well-preserved and elaborate mummies are those of royalty and high-ranking officials. This is because these individuals had access to the best resources and the most skilled embalmers, and their tombs were often specially designed to protect their bodies from decay.
However, archaeological evidence has shown that mummification was practiced by all levels of Egyptian society, from the wealthy elite to the poorest peasants. In fact, some of the earliest known mummies are those of commoners, dating back to the Predynastic period (before 3100 BC). These mummies, although less elaborate than those of kings and officials, still show evidence of careful preparation and wrapping, indicating that mummification was not just a privilege reserved for the upper classes.
The purpose of mummification in ancient Egypt was to preserve the body for the afterlife, ensuring that the deceased individual would have a place in the next world. This belief was central to Egyptian religion, and it was believed that the preservation of the body was necessary for the soul to continue its existence after death.
While kings and officials may have had more elaborate mummification rituals and better-preserved tombs, the practice of mummification was not exclusive to them. It was a common practice among all Egyptians, regardless of their social status, and it reflected their deep belief in the importance of preserving the body for the afterlife.