The History and Transformation of Mummification From Ancient Egypt to Modern Practices

The History and Transformation of Mummification From Ancient Egypt to Modern Practices

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The art of preserving bodies refers to the method in which the skin and flesh of a deceased person are preserved. This preservation can happen through natural means or be done intentionally by humans. Bodies are naturally preserved in certain environments, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or arid conditions. One of the most famous forms of intentional mummification is from Egyptian history, where corpses were covered in bandages to prevent decay and preserve the body for the afterlife.

Preserved bodies, including humans and animals, have been found all over the globe, often because of natural preservation or intentional rituals. Throughout Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been found, a significant number being cats. The process of Egyptian mummification was very symbolic. They removed the brain through the nose, and removed all major internal organs, except for the heart. This was because the heart was crucial for the ceremony in the afterlife. The other organs were placed in canopic jars, which were buried with the mummy.

Today, mummification has taken on a new form within certain BDSM communities. Here, the practice of wrapping the body is used in a role-playing context, where one person, referred to as the "slave," is completely wrapped by another, the "master." The nose is left uncovered to allow for air. The wrapping materials vary from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. While the practice shares the name, its purpose in BDSM is primarily about domination and restraint instead of preserving the body.

**Conclusion**

Mummification has evolved significantly from its origins in ancient burial rituals to present-day practices within BDSM subcultures. Though its ancient goal was to preserve the body for eternity, the contemporary practice is about control and role-play. Even though they are different, both forms of mummification reveal a fascination with control, whether it is over death or within social relationships.