The History and Transformation of Mummification From Historical Rituals to Modern-Day Practices

The History and Transformation of Mummification From Historical Rituals to Modern-Day Practices

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Mummification refers to the method in which the skin and flesh of a deceased person can remain intact. This process of preservation may happen naturally or be carried out by humans. Bodies are naturally preserved under specific conditions, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or dry environments. One well-known example of intentional mummification comes from Egyptian history, where corpses were wrapped in bandages to prevent decay and keep the body for the journey to the afterlife.

Mummified remains, whether human or animal, have been discovered in many parts of the world, often resulting from natural preservation or intentional rituals. In Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been found, many of them cats. The method of mummification in ancient Egypt was highly ceremonial. They removed the brain through the nose, and removed all major internal organs, leaving only the heart. This was due to the belief that the heart played a key role in the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony. The other organs were stored in canopic jars, which were buried with the mummy.

In modern times, mummification has evolved into a new practice within certain BDSM practices. Here, the concept of mummification is used in a role-playing context, where one person, known as the "slave," is completely wrapped by another, the "master." Breathing is allowed through exposed nostrils to allow for air. The materials used for this wrapping can include duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. While the practice shares the name, in this case centers around controlling the body instead of preserving the body.

**Conclusion**

Mummification has evolved significantly from its beginning in early death rituals to contemporary practices in alternative lifestyles. While the traditional purpose focused on preserving the body for eternity, today's version is about control and role-play. Even though they are different, both forms of mummification reflect a deep human interest in control, whether controlling life or death or within social relationships.