The History and Transformation of Mummification From Ancient Traditions to Contemporary Methods

The History and Transformation of Mummification From Ancient Traditions to Contemporary Methods

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Mummification is the process through which the body of a dead body are preserved. This method of keeping bodies intact can occur naturally or be performed through human intervention. Natural mummification occurs in certain environments, such as freezing temperatures, acidic environments, or arid conditions. One well-known example of intentional mummification is from Egyptian civilization, where the dead were wrapped in bandages to prevent decay and preserve the body for the afterlife.

Mummies, whether human or animal, have been discovered on every continent, often because of natural preservation or intentional rituals. Throughout Egypt, in excess of a million mummified animals have been uncovered, a significant number being cats. The Egyptian mummification techniques was very symbolic. The brain was removed using a hook through the nasal cavity, and removed all major internal organs, except for the heart. This was due to the belief that the heart was central to the afterlife rituals. All other organs were stored in canopic jars, which were included in the burial.

In modern times, mummification is being used differently within certain BDSM communities. Here, the concept of mummification has become a form of role-play, where one person, known as the "slave," is bound tightly by another, the "master." Only the nostrils are left exposed to allow for air. The wrapping materials range from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Though the activity retains the term mummification, in the BDSM context is focused on controlling the body rather than preservation.

**To conclude**

Mummification has undergone vast changes from its roots in ancient Egyptian death practices to present-day practices in subcultures like BDSM. While the traditional purpose was to preserve the body for the afterlife, the modern interpretation focuses on power dynamics. Even though they are different, both forms of mummification reveal a fascination with control, whether it is over death or through interpersonal dynamics.