Top 10 Weirdest Egyptian Traditions In History

The ancient Egyptians were renowned for their fascinating culture, which was filled with incredibly strange customs and rituals. From the mysterious mummification process to their obsession with cats, it is no wonder why Egyptian culture has been so widely studied and admired for centuries. In fact, some of the most bizarre Egyptian traditions are still practiced today. Here are the top 10 weirdest Egyptian traditions in history.

1. Mummification

Mummification was one of the most important rituals in ancient Egyptian culture and one of the most bizarre. This process involved removing all of the internal organs, drying out the body with natron salt, and wrapping the body in linen strips. The mummy was then placed in a sarcophagus to ensure its preservation. This process was believed to help ensure the deceased’s safe passage into the afterlife.

2. Cat Worship

The ancient Egyptians had a deep reverence for cats. They believed that cats were the protectors of the gods and goddesses and they would often mummify cats after their death as a sign of respect. In fact, it is believed that cats were so revered in ancient Egypt that harming a cat was punishable by death!

3. Mourners

The ancient Egyptians believed that death was not the end of life and that one could continue to live on in the afterlife. To ensure that the deceased had a successful journey, mourners were hired to attend funerals and help guide the deceased to the afterlife. These mourners would often wear masks, chant, and weep to help the deceased on their journey.

4. Animal Sacrifice

The ancient Egyptians believed that sacrificing animals to the gods would bring good luck and fortune. This ritual was often performed during important festivals and religious ceremonies. The animals that were sacrificed were usually cattle, goats, sheep, and birds.

5. Amulets

The ancient Egyptians believed that amulets had magical powers and could protect them from evil spirits. They would often wear amulets in the form of animals or deities around their necks or wrists. These amulets were believed to bring luck, health, and prosperity.

6. Wigs

The ancient Egyptians were very concerned with their appearance and often wore wigs to cover their bald heads. These wigs were made from human hair and were often elaborately decorated with beads and jewels. It is believed that these wigs were also used to protect against the sun and wind.

7. Tattoos

The ancient Egyptians believed that tattoos had magical powers and that they could protect them from evil spirits. They would often get tattoos of animals, gods, and goddesses on their bodies. These tattoos were believed to bring good luck, health, and prosperity.

8. Makeup

The ancient Egyptians were very concerned with their appearance and would often wear makeup to enhance their beauty. They would use green and black eyeliner, red lipstick, and even henna to color their hair. They believed that these cosmetics had magical powers and could bring them good luck.

9. Baths

The ancient Egyptians believed that taking regular baths was important for maintaining cleanliness and good health. They would often bathe in the Nile River and use perfumes and oils to make themselves smell nice. They even invented the first shampoo!

10. Burial Masks

The ancient Egyptians believed that the dead needed to be protected from evil spirits in the afterlife. To do this, they would often create elaborate burial masks for their deceased loved ones. These masks would be placed over the face of the mummy and were believed to protect them in the afterlife.

These are just some of the strangest and most fascinating Egyptian traditions in history. From mummification to makeup, these customs and rituals have been studied and admired for centuries. While some of these traditions are still practiced today, many have been lost to time. Nonetheless, they are a fascinating reminder of the unique culture and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians.