Study the image of the artwork and accompanying description. On the discussion board, consider the questions posed regarding this artwork. Respectfully respond to two of your classmates’ entries.
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”?
Explain in one to three sentences
In Egyptian culture, the details of this artwork highlight the significance of organ preservation. The artwork depicts canopic jars, which were used to store the deceased person's organs after mummification. This demonstrates the Egyptians' belief in the afterlife and their desire to ensure the preservation of the body for the soul's journey.
The Egyptians preserved the organs in this way because they believed that the deceased individual would need their organs in the afterlife. Each canopic jar contained a specific organ, which was associated with a different deity. By preserving the organs and placing them in dedicated jars, the Egyptians believed they were maintaining the person's physical form and abilities in the afterlife.
Pharaohs and important Egyptians were buried with Ushabtis or "helpers" as they believed that these small figurines would come to life and perform any labor required of them in the afterlife. The Ushabtis were meant to ensure that the deceased had no labor burdens in the afterlife and could continue to enjoy their status and comfort.
Response to classmate 1:
I agree with your analysis of the artwork and its depiction of the importance of organ preservation in Egyptian culture. The Egyptians had a strong belief in the afterlife, and preserving the organs was crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the body in the next life. It's fascinating how each canopic jar represented a different deity and organ, emphasizing the religious significance of this practice.
Response to classmate 2:
I also find the inclusion of Ushabtis intriguing. It showcases the Egyptians' belief that the deceased would need servants or helpers in the afterlife to perform tasks for them. By burying important individuals with Ushabtis, they were ensuring that their status and comfort would be maintained in the next life. It demonstrates their desire for a seamless continuation of their earthly life in the afterlife.
What should the title be for this
In Egyptian culture, the details of this artwork highlight the significance of organ preservation. The artwork depicts canopic jars, which were used to store the deceased person's organs after mummification. This demonstrates the Egyptians' belief in the afterlife and their desire to ensure the preservation of the body for the soul's journey.