When a pharaoh died, the critical 70-day long process of mummification began. This elaborate ritual was essential for preserving the pharaoh's body, ensuring their safe journey to and successful arrival in the afterlife.
The Significance of the Pharaoh's Death
In ancient Egypt, the pharaoh was not just a ruler but was considered a divine link between the gods and the people. Their death was a moment of immense significance, marking the transition from earthly reign to divine existence in the afterlife. This transition was believed to be fraught with challenges, and proper preparation was paramount to ensure the pharaoh's continued well-being and ability to interact with the gods and help their people from the next world.
The Mummification Process: A 70-Day Journey
As stated in historical accounts and evidenced by archaeological findings, upon a pharaoh's death:
- The Process Begins: The 70-day long process of mummification immediately commenced. This was a highly specialized and sacred task, carried out by skilled priests and embalmers.
- Preservation: The primary goal of mummification was to preserve the pharaoh's physical body as a vessel for the soul (known as the ka and ba) in the afterlife. Without a recognizable body, the soul could wander eternally.
- Preparation for the Afterlife: The extensive process, which included cleaning, drying, wrapping, and performing rituals, was designed to prepare the pharaoh's body and spirit for the transition. It provided a tangible link for the ka and ba to return to.
- Traversing Obstacles: Mummification was believed to provide the pharaoh with the means necessary for traversing the obstacles found in order to safely arrive in the afterlife. These obstacles could include trials, demons, or other dangers on the journey through the underworld (Duat).
Why 70 Days?
The specific duration of 70 days is significant. It is thought to be related to the heliacal rising of the star Sirius (Sopdet to the Egyptians), which occurred after a period of invisibility lasting about 70 days. Sirius was associated with the goddess Isis and the flooding of the Nile, both vital for Egyptian life and rebirth. This astronomical cycle likely mirrored the perceived journey of the pharaoh from death back to renewed existence in the afterlife.
The Pharaoh's Tomb
Following the 70-day mummification, the pharaoh's body was placed in a sarcophagus and interred within an elaborate tomb, such as a pyramid or a tomb in the Valley of the Kings. The tomb was filled with grave goods – everything the pharaoh would need in the afterlife, from food and furniture to servants (represented by shabti figures) and treasures. The tomb walls were often decorated with spells, prayers, and scenes from the Book of the Dead to guide and protect the pharaoh.
In essence, the death of a pharaoh triggered a complex and ritually significant process focused entirely on ensuring their successful transition to, and existence within, the Egyptian afterlife.
