why did the egyptians go to such lengths to preserve the dead? (course hero)

by Mattie Reinger 3 min read

Ancient Egyptians loved life and believed in immortality. Thus, preserving bodies in as lifelike a way as possible was the goal of mummification, and essential to the continuation of life. The Egyptians believed that the mummified body housed one’s soul or spirit.

Full Answer

What did the ancient Egyptians do with dead bodies?

The methods of embalming, or treating the dead body, that the ancient Egyptians used is called mummification. Using special processes, the Egyptians removed all moisture from the body, leaving only a dried form that would not easily decay. Why was the coffin important to the ancient Egyptians?

What was the purpose of mummification in ancient Egypt?

Ancient Egyptians loved life and believed in immortality. Thus, preserving bodies in as lifelike a way as possible was the goal of mummification, and essential to the continuation of life. The Egyptians believed that the mummified body housed one’s soul or spirit. What was the purpose for preparing the body for the afterlife?

Why were ancient Egyptian tombs so important?

In ancient Egypt a tomb, if built and designed properly, had the power to restore life and give immortality to the dead owner. Tomb architecture was complex and its art in the form of painting, sculpture and script gives a glimpse into the beliefs and daily life of the ancient Egyptians.