Existing comment:
Making a Mummy:
The word "mummy" comes from mumlya, an Arabic word for bitumen, a tar-like substance not actually used in the embalming process. Mummification consisted of a complicated series of processes and rituals that lasted seventy days. First, the body was washed and the internal organs were removed since these decayed more quickly. The brain was extracted by means of a metal hook inserted through the nostrils and apparently discarded. An incision was made in the abdomen through which the lungs, stomach, liver, and intestines were removed and these were embalmed separately. The body was then covered with natron, a natural salt that absorbed all remaining moisture from the tissues.
After drying, the skin was coated with resins and the body cavity packed to return it, as much as possible, to its former appearance. Finally, the body was wrapped in yards of linen for protection. During the wrapping process, priests placed amulets between the layers of linen and recited magical spells for the protection of the mummy. The most important amulet was a large scarab to protect the heart, which was not removed during the embalming process. The internal organs, each of which was protected by its own god, were put into special jars and placed with the mummy in the tomb. |