25.07.2025 11:41
Archaeologists have discovered interesting burial practices in tombs belonging to people who lived in Ancient Egypt 5,000 years ago. These findings provide important clues about the beliefs regarding death, spirituality, and the relationship with the stars during that time. One of the most striking examples is the tomb of a young girl, in which her right arm was severed after her death and carefully placed back in position.
Archaeologists have discovered astonishing and chilling burial practices in tombs belonging to people who lived in Ancient Egypt 5,000 years ago. These findings provide significant clues about the beliefs of peasants regarding death, spirituality, and their relationship with the stars during that period.
One of the most striking discoveries is that of a young girl found in the Adaiima cemetery on the banks of the Nile River. Dating back to 3300-2700 BC, it was determined that her right arm was severed after her death. Most likely, the arm bones were separated with a tool like an axe, and the muscles were cut with a sharp stone (flint knife).
However, the individuals preparing the burial carefully placed the severed arm back in position to make it appear as if it were intact. The right hand was placed next to the forearm. Interestingly, her left arm was unusually bent. It seems that such an arrangement was made to ensure the two arms appeared harmonious.
The young girl's coffin was aligned with the setting sun at the winter solstice; it was also oriented towards the direction of the brightest star in the sky, Sirius. According to experts, this burial form may be the oldest example of the myth of Osiris and Isis. According to the legend, the goddess Isis reassembles the dismembered body of Osiris under the rising of Sirius. This symbolizes death, rebirth, and universal order.
Researchers examined over 900 tombs found in a 74-acre area using artificial intelligence and data analysis. According to the results, social class distinctions and religious symbols gradually emerged in burial arrangements during that time.
Other nearby tombs are also quite remarkable. A woman was buried with ornate jewelry and pottery, and her coffin was aligned with the winter sun. In another woman's tomb, a ceremonial staff and a wig made of plant fibers were found. She was also buried facing the sunset of the summer sun.
These burial forms and symbolic objects in harmony with the sky may have laid the foundations of Ancient Egyptian mythology, which was later developed during the pharaohs' era.
Over time, the construction of some tombs near these previously made astronomically aligned tombs indicates that these tombs held religious or ancestral significance.
Some tombs also contained interesting details such as models of boats made of ivory, specially handcrafted coffins, or the placement of a child's bone on an adult's chest. It is believed that these details aimed to establish a connection between the deceased and the afterlife.