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Death rituals were an important part of the ancient Egyptian culture as they believed these rituals were essential to grant immortality in the afterlife. Some of these rituals included the process of mummification, being buried with specific items and the casting of spells. The death rites in ancient Egypt changed and evolved over centuries with old customs being discarded and replaced with new ideas. Despite changes in details over time the three main elements remained, the preparation of the body, the magic spells and the burial items.

Many of the rituals would start with an elaborate funeral procession that would take place around 70 days after death. The coffin would be placed on a bier, which was protected by effigies of the Gods. The coffin would then be pulled through the desert by oxen and it would be followed by musicians, mourners and priest, some of whom would be wearing masks of the Gods such as the jackal head of Anubis. Following behind would be slaves or servants who would carry the items that were to be buried with the deceased. These would include jewellery, clothes, furniture and cosmetics.

After the body was prepared for mummification the priest would symbolically re-animate the body. In the 'Opening of the Mouth Ceremony' the priest would chant a spell then touch the mouth, ears, eyes and nose with a blade to make sure the body was able to talk and breathe in the afterlife and able to accept the food sacrifices that were offered.

Other rituals would include placing the mummy in a coffin in the shape of a man, the man shaped coffins would then be decorated with the likeness of the deceased. Sometime garlands of flowers would be placed around the neck of the coffin and makeup applied to the image of the deceased. Sacrifices of food and drink would be мейд as well as a fresh calf's leg that was still spurting blood.

After the funeral procession and all the death rituals had been completed the coffin would be sealed in its tomb. A feast and great celebration would then start as the departed begins their journey into the afterlife.

This article was written by Thom Sanders on behalf of AK Lander who offer competitive and provide high quality too.