Egypt Museum- All About Ancient Egypt Life – Part 3

Visiting the Egypt Museum in the United States provided an exceptional opportunity to immerse myself in the rich history of ancient Egypt. This museum is distinctive in that it encompasses all facets of Egyptian history, including life, religion, culture, and lifestyle, dating back to 6000 BC. Unlike many museums in India, this institution permits photography, which facilitates the dissemination of its magnificent culture rather than reducing it to a mere repository.
Location
The Egyptian Museum is located at San Jose in California state on West coast of North America.
Introduction
Egyptian civilization emerged when nomadic groups from the surrounding deserts began to settle along the banks of the Nile River around 3400 BC or earlier. These early inhabitants relied on the fertile soil deposited by the Nile during its annual floods, but they also faced challenges when floods occurred at inopportune times, leading to crop failures, or when water levels were insufficient. This prompted them to develop a calendar and construct barriers and ponds for better water management. The invention of the potter’s wheel proved to be a significant advancement in their daily lives, facilitating the production of pottery. Over time, these small groups of nomads evolved into villages, and eventually into towns and cities, beginning around 3400 BC. To gain a deeper understanding of this museum and its artifacts, it is essential to briefly explore the history of Egypt in brief.

This classification of historical periods is distinct from that of other civilizations. Primarily, there were nine periods identified. Within each period, the dynasties were characterized by rulers from the same familial lineage. A change in family typically resulted in a change of dynasty. In total, Ancient Egypt experienced 32 dynasties until the conquest of Egypt by Alexander.

1. Predynastic Period (5500-3100 BC) Farmers and small villages existed.
2. Early Dynastic Period (3100 BC-2686 BC) The communities lived in two regions – Red Land and White land. Powerful warrior Menes unified the two in 3100 BC and became the first Pharaoh of Egypt.
3. Old Kingdom (2686 BC- 2181 BC) The period encompassed the Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Dynasties. The Third and Fourth Dynasties experienced a golden age for the kingdom, while the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties marked its decline. King Djoser commissioned the construction of the Step Pyramid in the city of Saqqara, located 32 kilometers from present-day Cairo. This era was characterized by peace, prosperity, and stability. The pharaohs wielded absolute power, and there were no foreign invasions. The Great Pyramid of Giza was also built during this time. The kingdom expanded its territories, conquering Nubia (present-day North Sudan) and Libya. However, during the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties, the pharaoh’s authority diminished due to the substantial expenses associated with pyramid construction, and the priesthood gained such prominence that the populace began to place greater faith in the divine than in the pharaoh.
4. First Intermediate Period (2181 BC- 2055 BC) Dynasties 7, 8, 9, and 10 were characterized by significant instability, marked by weak kingdoms and rapid changes in leadership. Consequently, these intermediate periods are often referred to as the DARK periods in the history of ancient Egypt. However, by the conclusion of Dynasty 10, King Mentuhotep IV succeeded in reunifying Egypt, thereby initiating the Middle Kingdom.
5. Middle Kingdom (2055 BC- 1786 BC) Approximately 250 years after the assassination of Mentuhotep IV, the final monarch of the 11th Dynasty, his chief minister ascended to the throne, adopting the name Amenemhet I and establishing the 12th Dynasty. The Middle Kingdom achieved a level of glory comparable to that of the Old Kingdom, successfully repelling foreign invaders, including Bedouin tribes from present-day Jordan and forces from Nubia, now known as Sudan. The trade of ebony, ivory, and gold thrived during this era. Diplomatic relations were established with regions such as Palestine and Syria, leading to the construction of fortifications and mining operations by the Egyptians for these allies. This period also marked the revival of pyramid construction, which had previously been halted. The Middle Kingdom reached its zenith under Amenemhet IV and is notably remembered for Sobekeneferu, the first female pharaoh of Egypt and the last ruler of the 12th Dynasty.
6. Second Intermediate Period (1786 BC-1567 BC) About 200 years This intermediate period is also called dark period like 1st intermediate period. Here many dynasties ruled in parallel and Egypt was in divisions and unsettled.
7. New Kingdom ( 1567 BC- 1085 BC) Approximately 500 years were characterized by the reigns of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties. Ahmose I emerged as the inaugural ruler of the 18th dynasty, successfully reuniting Egypt and expanding its territory to include Nubia (present-day Sudan) and Palestine. During this era, the Egyptian Empire extended from the Euphrates River to Nubia. Notable rulers of this time included Amenhotep I, Thutmose I, Amenhotep III, and Thutmose III, who is celebrated as Egypt’s greatest military leader. This period is also marked by Amenhotep IV’s significant religious reforms, as he abolished the long-standing veneration of the sun god Amon-Ra in favor of the worship of another sun deity, Aton. He established a new capital, Akhetaton (meaning “Servant of Aton”). Following his death, the worship of Amon-Ra was reinstated. The 19th and 20th dynasties featured a succession of rulers known as Ramses I and Ramses II, among others. The Exodus of Moses and the Israelites occurred during the reign of Ramses II (1304-1237 BC). Most of the kings from this period were interred in the Valley of the Kings, with the exception of Tutankhamun (1361-1352 BC). By the conclusion of this era, Egypt had lost control over Palestine and Syria, leading to a significant depletion of its wealth and ultimately contributing to its decline.
8. Third Intermediate Period (1085 BC-664 BC) About 400 years It had dynasty 21,22,23,24 and 25. Egypt did not rise again to height of its old glory. This period also called the dark age. In this period civil wars happened and rule got weakened. Nubians, Assyrians attacked one after other. Power of pharaoh waned and priests were more powerful. The decisions were done in function of oracle ( A person thought as God and his nod decides). So God Amon was supposed to be supreme.
9. Late Period (664 BC – 332 BC) About 350 years It had dynasty 26 to 32 in this period. Persian kings conquered Egypt and they did not disturb any culture or rule here. The king Darius (522- 485 BC) supported Egyptian age old religion and even restored their temples. Finally Alexander the Great conquered Egypt.

Tourist map of Egypt

Pyramids and Mummies
Pyramids – Numerous programs have explored the Pyramids, presenting various theories regarding the construction of these monumental structures approximately 4,500 years ago. The Pyramids serve as grand tombs for the Pharaohs. While Egypt is home to many pyramids, the Giza Pyramid stands out as the sole representative of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It reaches a height of 147 meters, or 490 feet, which is comparable to a 32-story building. The structure is composed of massive boulders, some weighing as much as 15,000 kilograms. It is remarkable that even today, there is ongoing speculation about how such enormous stones were transported and utilized. The construction of the Pyramid of Giza involved approximately 2.5 million blocks. At the base of the pyramid, temples were erected to offer tributes to the spirits of the kings.

Mummy – The ancient Egyptians held the belief that a spirit remained connected to its deceased body as long as the body was preserved. This belief led to the practice of mummification, which originated in Egypt approximately 4,500 years ago. The sarcophagus containing the mummy was inscribed with the likeness of the deceased, allowing the spirit to recognize and enter its designated resting place. These mummies were often interred with precious ornaments, many of which were looted over time; however, the mummy of the 17-year-old Tutankhamun remained undisturbed until its discovery in 1933. The embalming process involved the removal of all internal organs, with the exception of the heart, which were placed in jars. The body was then treated with salt, spices, and sand, followed by the application of oils, wine, and resin to the outer skin. Finally, the body was meticulously wrapped in multiple layers of linen bandages.

This exceptionally well-preserved mummy lacked any wrappings or adornments. The fingernails were stained with henna, while the hair retained its natural color. The superior quality of the mummification process suggests that he belonged to the upper class, as such embalming methods are quite costly. In 2004, researchers from the National Geographic Channel conducted an investigation into this mummy.

Animals Mummy
The mummification of animals by the Egyptians was motivated by various factors. Many animals were interred in tombs to serve as a lasting source of sustenance for the spirits of the deceased. This custom was particularly prevalent during the Middle Kingdom. Species such as fish, cats, buffalo, crocodiles, and various cuts of meat were subjected to the mummification process.

Sometimes beloved animals were mummified by owners. By far the most popular reason of mummifying was to honor the Gods. Many Gods were representing animals. Crocodile for example represented by God Sobek, cat related to Bastet.

Protecting the Home
The inhabitants of Egypt historically took measures to safeguard their families and residences from malevolent forces. The deity Bes served as the guardian of children, the vulnerable, and soldiers. Representations of Bes were commonly fashioned into amulets and depicted on walls. Taweret, the goddess in the form of a hippopotamus, was revered as the protector of expectant mothers. During pregnancy, a woman was believed to be under the guardianship of Taweret, as opposed to Hathor, who was associated with love and sexuality. Following the child’s naming ceremony, the mother would return to the protection of Hathor. Additionally, the goddess represented by the cat and the god represented by the crocodile were also considered protectors of the family, safeguarding them from illness. It was customary for descendants to honor their deceased parents by ensuring their proper burial, thereby securing their well-being in the afterlife. Women traditionally managed childbirth, household responsibilities, and participated in spiritual ceremonies.
Hapi, the God of Nile Inundation
Hapi, an androgynous deity embodying both male and female characteristics, was not the god of the Nile itself but rather the god of the Nile’s annual flooding, which enriched the riverbanks with fertile soil essential for agriculture.

Hapi was represented by papyrus plant, representing lower Egypt (North) and the lotus flower signifying upper Egypt (South). This statue in this figure is cast of quartzite statue from 22nd dynasty (872 BC-837 BC). It is shown with facial features of Pharaoh Osorkon II.

Note :  The crocodile was the bane for Egyptian mothers. Almost everyone in ancient Egypt lived by river and when mothers went to river side crocodile would snatch their babies. This very rightfully terrified the mothers. Images such as these were given to temples or kept in home to honor Sobek, the crocodile God to spare their family. The crocodile lamp you see had intention that flame would keep their family eternally safe from crocodile God or drowning into Nile river.
Proper Burial
In ancient Egypt proper burial was considered to be essential for eternal life of deceased. Most people began their burial preparations as soon as they had means to do so, especially since a sizable tomb could take 15 to 20 years to complete.
All sort of tomb offering were placed in burial chamber. Drawings of food (sometimes actual mummified food) prevented the deceased from going hungry. Board games kept him entertained and furniture gave his spirit a place to rest. Even models of deceased and his servants also were kept to do chores for him after death.

Mummification represented a crucial element in the journey to the afterlife. The deceased was transported to the “Good House,” known as pr-nefer, to undergo this essential procedure. Following the cleansing and evisceration of the body, it was placed in natron, a desert salt, for a duration of 35 days, after which an extensive process of anointing and wrapping commenced. Throughout this period, the entire family engaged in mourning rituals. Women would cut their hair short, while men allowed their beards to grow. Garments were permitted to become soiled, and family members of the deceased would pour dirt over their heads. This proper mourning culminated in the moment when the body was returned to the family for burial in the tomb.
Honoring the Ancestors
Upon the return of the embalmed body to the family, the funeral proceedings commenced. The family received the body, which was fully wrapped, and transported it in a coffin to the burial site. Along the way, the women lamented and scattered dirt upon themselves, often joined by professional mourners.
At the entrance of the tomb, the opening of the mouth ceremony was conducted. A model of an adze, a tool used in woodworking, was placed against the mouth of the mummy, concluding with the incantation, “You are young again. You shall live again; you are young again forever!” Following this ritual, the spirit of the deceased was released to embark on its journey in the afterlife.
The family would visit the tomb daily, as they were concerned that an angry spirit could bring harm to them.

Ba (bird with human head) represented soul of the deceased and was kept in tomb. It was thought that it will often fly and visit the relatives.

Weaving and basketry
The most popular fabric in ancient Egypt was linen cloth which was produced from flax plant. Usually women used to weave the cloth and was considered as a very important household work. In fact it was like currency and was used for barter system too.
The lined fibers were pulled from flax plant, soaked and dried and then fibers were combed to make thin threads one-tenth of human hair. Most linen was white as it was difficult to dye. Basketry was used to make sandals, water tight baskets, fishing material and rope to be used at Nile.

The Home

Towns were very crowded and built tightly together. However the homes faced inward for privacy. Weaving and other works were done on roof. Women were responsible for the home, both in management and decoration. Heirlooms were passed down through families, Some fine pottery shows of having been used for generations. In end these were retired to tomb of family member.

Cosmetics 

Men and women both would decorate their face with eyeliner, lip color in order to enter in good grace of God Hathor.  Hathor was Goddess of physical beauty, fertility, and love. Perfumes and ointments  were used as moisturizer. Henna, was used to die nails, lips and cheeks. Eye shadow used powdered malachite.

Jewelry
In ancient Egyptian culture, jewelry transcended mere adornment. Amulets were meticulously assembled to provide formidable magical protection. The decorative beads interspersed among the amulets frequently took the form of stylized lotus flowers or other potent symbols.
The selection of stones for jewelry also carried significant meaning. Carnelian, linked to the goddess Isis, was commonly utilized in representations of her. Gold symbolized the Sun and was associated with the goddess Hathor, who was referred to as “The Golden One.” Jewelry was crafted by skilled artisans, with individuals born with dwarfism believed to possess exceptional talent in this craft, often serving as apprentices to master jewelers. While clothing remained simple, it was frequently enhanced by exquisite jewelry, with women donning entire bead-net dresses over their basic garments.

Art and Artisans
In the feudal hierarchy of ancient Egypt, artisans occupied a distinguished position. Painters, carpenters, sculptors, and architects served directly under the king, enjoying a degree of autonomy as they were not tied to any specific land. Their work was dictated by royal commands, requiring them to travel to various sites for the construction of tombs and furniture. The most renowned artists resided in a settlement known as Set Ma’at, which is presently identified as Deir el-Medina.
Food and Cookery
The agricultural output of Egypt primarily consisted of barley and onions, which were fundamental components of the diet. Barley was fermented to produce beer, a beverage rich in vitamin B-12. Livestock such as cattle, ducks, geese, and even hyenas were raised, contributing to the food supply. Fish constituted a significant source of protein in the ancient Egyptian diet. It is noteworthy that chickens were not introduced as a food source until the 18th dynasty, which marked the beginning of the New Kingdom in ancient Egypt.
While no cookbooks from that era have survived, insights into the dietary practices of ancient Egyptians can be gleaned from their shopping lists and records of medicinal purchases. For instance, ducks were often prepared by being stuffed with dates and pistachios, then coated in honey and roasted. Additionally, sweet cakes were crafted from ground flour, goose fat, and honey, while palm wine offered a refreshing alternative to the commonly consumed barley beer.
Weaving and Basketry
In ancient Egypt, linen cloth, derived from the flax plant, was the most widely used fabric. The task of weaving this cloth was predominantly undertaken by women, and it was regarded as a crucial domestic activity. Linen held significant value, functioning as a form of currency within the barter system. The process involved extracting the long fibers from the flax plant, which were then soaked, dried, and combed to create fine threads that were one-tenth the thickness of a human hair. Most linen produced was white, as dyeing it proved to be a challenging endeavor. Additionally, basketry played an essential role in crafting items such as sandals, waterproof baskets, fishing gear, and ropes utilized along the Nile.

Papyrus and Writing
Personal correspondence, marriage agreements, and funeral inscriptions were commonly recorded on papyrus. Only about 2% of the Egyptian population was literate. However, the town of Set Ma’at, now known as Deir el-Medina, boasted a literacy rate of 40%. This community primarily consisted of families belonging to a specialized class of artisans within Egypt’s feudal structure. Here, painters, carpenters, sculptors, and architects resided, responsible for the construction of grand tombs and temples.

The coffin of Tutankhamun
The innermost coffin of Tutankhamun, who ascended to the throne at the age of nine and passed away at seventeen, stands as one of the most exquisite and unique examples of royal burial artifacts. Crafted from precious colored glass and adorned with jewels, it is the most elaborate of all tombs discovered to date. This remarkable find was made in 1922 by Egyptologist Howard Carter and his team.
King Tutankhamun’s mummy was interred within three nested coffins, which were subsequently placed inside a large stone sarcophagus(case) located in his tomb.
The two emblems he holds represent symbols of kingship, signifying his authority over both Lower Egypt (the North) and Upper Egypt (the South). Additionally, Tutankhamun’s false beard was included as a representation of royal power, with its curved end symbolizing the young pharaoh’s ascension to divinity in the afterlife.

Early 18th dynasty coffin
The coffin from the early 18th dynasty represents the initial period of the New Kingdom in ancient Egypt. It belonged to a priest named Disure during this era. The sides of the coffin are adorned with painted golden straps, although yellow paint substitutes for the actual gold. At the base of the coffin, the goddess Isis is depicted, serving to safeguard Disure’s feet.

Coffin of a common man

Pottery in Ancient Egypt 

Music in Temples
Ancient Egyptians considered music to be essential for proper functioning of the temples. Women filled this role, serving as musicians and songstress. While the women who sang did not bear the title of priestess, they were just important for any religious ceremonies.

The instruments displayed here were played in morning and evening when priests opened the temple doors. This moment of human-to-god contact was considered to be critical to worship and at the same time dangerous to priests. So music was played to soothe the God.
Epilogue
This museum boasts an impressive array of artifacts, including mummies, coffins, sculptures, statues, representations of daily life, pottery, and temple architecture, along with visual and audio demonstrations. Photography is permitted within the premises, allowing visitors to capture memories and gain insights into Egyptian history as they exit the museum. I extend my gratitude to the archaeology department of the USA for making accessible this invaluable repository of knowledge regarding ancient Egyptian culture. The informative boards provide clear descriptions of the artifacts and their historical context, enabling us to better understand the what, why, and when of this rich heritage.

Reference 
Egypt Museum at San Jose, USA for photos and text. Photography was allowed inside.
The travelers

Q1 – What is the reason for referring to the first, second, and third intermediate kingdoms as the Dark Ages of ancient Egypt?
Q2 – During which Kingdom era did the pharaohs Amenemhet I through Amenemhet IV reign?
Q3 – Which kingdom era includes the reigns of Ramesses I to III, Amenhotep I to IV, Thutmose I to IV, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, and Tutankhamun?
Q4 – Who was the inaugural female pharaoh, and in which kingdom did she rule?
Q5 – During the reign of which pharaoh did the Exodus of Moses and the Israelites take place, and what was the approximate time period?
Q6 – Which deities are represented by Bes, Taweret, Hathor, Hapi, Bastet, and Isis?
Q7 – What does the Ba, depicted as a bird with a human head, symbolize?

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