What insight do the details of this artwork provide about the importance of organ preservation in Egyptian culture? Given the Egyptians’ belief in the afterlife, why do you think they preserved the organs in this way?
Why do you think Pharaohs and other important Egyptians were to be buried with the Ushabtis, or “helpers”?
(Write in 4 sentences)
The details of this artwork suggest that organ preservation was highly important in Egyptian culture. The artwork depicts the process of organ removal, mummification, and preservation. This indicates that the ancient Egyptians believed that preserving the organs was crucial for the afterlife.
The Egyptians believed in the concept of the afterlife, where they believed that the soul would need its body and organs to survive in the next world. Preserving the organs allowed the deceased to maintain their earthly faculties in the afterlife. They believed that the organs served specific functions in the afterlife, such as sight or digestion. Therefore, preserving the organs ensured the deceased had everything they needed for eternal life.
Pharaohs and other important Egyptians were buried with Ushabtis, also known as "helpers," because they believed that these figurines would assist them in the afterlife. The Ushabtis were symbolic servants who were thought to come to life and perform tasks on behalf of the deceased. It was believed that these figurines would work in the fields, perform labor, and answer any call for help. Including Ushabtis in the burial ensured that the deceased would have eternal assistance and would not have to labor in the afterlife.