An extraordinary revelation has emerged from the ancient sands of Al-Bahansa, Egypt, leaving archaeologists in awe. Inside tombs dating back over 2,000 years to the Greco-Roman period, they discovered not only mummies and coffins but also 13 golden tongues and nails, shedding light on the fascinating burial practices of ancient Egyptians.
But here’s where it gets controversial…
Gold, to the ancient Egyptians, was more than just a precious metal. It was believed to be the very essence of the gods, immortal and indestructible. This belief was so profound that gold was used extensively in tombs, especially for the elite, to ensure their preservation in the afterlife.
“Gold was seen as a material of everlastingness,” explains Jennifer Houser Wegner, a curator of Egyptian artifacts. “Its brilliance symbolized the eternal nature of the soul.”
The golden tongues found in these tombs were believed to aid the deceased in communicating with the gods, particularly Osiris, the god of the underworld. Dr. Kathleen Martinez, a Dominican archaeologist, notes, “The presence of golden tongues is fascinating and indicates a strong belief in the power of these artifacts.”
And this is the part most people miss…
While golden tongues are a well-known funerary artifact, the discovery of golden nails is much rarer. These nails, placed on the fingers and toes of the mummies, were thought to offer protection against evil forces and preserve the integrity of the body in the afterlife.
“The use of gold to encase fingers and toes is a powerful symbol of the Egyptians’ belief in the magical protection of gold,” says Wegner.
The combination of golden tongues and nails at this site is particularly striking, indicating the level of care and belief in the embalming process. Gold, with its otherworldly glow, was seen as a shield, safeguarding the body and soul from corruption and ensuring a safe journey into the afterlife.
This discovery not only reveals the depth of ancient Egyptian beliefs but also highlights the importance of gold in their culture and spiritual practices.
What do you think? Is this a fascinating insight into ancient beliefs, or do you have a different interpretation? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!