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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The art of preserving bodies refers to the method by which the skin and flesh of a deceased person are preserved. This method of keeping bodies intact can occur naturally or be done intentionally by humans. Bodies are naturally preserved in certain environments, such as freezing temperatures, acidic environments, or dry environments. A notable type of intentional mummification originated in ancient Egypt, where the deceased were wrapped in bandages to prevent decay and preserve the body for the next world.

Mummified remains, whether human or animal, have been found in many parts of the world, often resulting from natural preservation or cultural practices. Within Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been found, including a large number of cats. The Egyptian mummification techniques was rich in ritual. Egyptians would extract the brain through the nose, and removed all major internal organs, leaving only the heart. This was because Egyptians believed the heart was crucial for the "Weighing of the Heart" ceremony. The other organs were placed in canopic jars, which were included in the burial.

In contemporary practices, mummification is being used differently as part of certain BDSM subcultures. Here, the idea of mummifying is part of role-playing scenarios, where one person, referred to as the "slave," is wrapped tightly by another, the "master." Only the nostrils are left exposed to ensure oxygen flow. The wrapping materials range from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Although this practice is still called mummification, its purpose in BDSM is focused on restraint and control and not about preservation.

**In summary**

Mummification has undergone vast changes from its beginning in early death rituals to modern-day practices within BDSM subcultures. While the traditional purpose was to preserve the body for the journey to the next life, the modern interpretation is about control and role-play. Despite the differences, both forms of mummification demonstrate a shared human interest in mastery, whether over death or within social relationships.