Coffins | Short History of Mummification

Coffins used in the ancient times of Egypt and in conjunction with mummification were made of wood, metal or pottery. The wealthy classes were typically the ones who were able to afford these burial details. The coffin was the last step to follow mummification of the deceased.

Why was mummification important to the Egyptians? They believed the mummified body served as the home for the soul. If the body was destroyed or deteriorated, the soul could be lost.

The first mummification likely occurred accidentally in the cases where sand and the arid air preserved bodies buried in shallow pits – with no coffins, of course. The earliest intentional practice of mummification began approximately in 2600 B.C. and continued for another 2000 years through the Roman Period (30 B.C. – A.D. 364).

Mummification methods varied depending on the price paid for it. It makes sense that the most well preserved mummies are from the 18th to the 20^th Dynasties of the New Kingdom (of the New Kingdom (ca. 1570 – 1075 B.C.). This included well know Pharaohs like Tutankhamen (a.k.a. King Tut).

The mummification process took 70 days and involved many steps including – removing, wrapping and replacing organs, then removal of moisture from the body and then the actual wrapping of the body. Special priests were the ones designated to the tasks of this part of the burial practice.

During the mummification of the body, the preparation of the tomb was also taking place. Artists, craftsmen and workers worked swiftly and diligently on furniture, statuettes, and paintings that were enclosed with the mummy inside the tomb.

Shortly after this was completed, the mummy was then placed in a coffin in the burial chamber. Then, the entrance of the tomb was sealed shut.

Our modern-day burials seem to be much less complicated and with more options for customization. Coffins now come in a wide variety of styles and are made from a variety of materials. There are various coffins available in all budget ranges, so they are accessible to every day people for end-of-life options.

Like the wealthy, ancient Egyptians, Mountain View Funeral Home does believe in the importance of pre-planning your burial details. It can save you money and your family peace of mind at the time of your passing.  Whether it be selecting coffins, tombstones, or burial location, our caring compassionate staff is here to answer any questions you may have about this process.