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A Recipe For Fine Mummification
Lay body on a stone slab.
Insert long metal instrument with hook through nostrils and pull brains out. Rinse brain cavity with palm wine.
To open torso, carefully slit skin of left flank with sharp stone knife.
Withdraw all vital organs through opening: heart, intestines, liver, lungs, and so forth. Set aside.
Rinse body cavity thoroughly with palm wine; rinse again with spice infusion. Pack body cavity with herbs and spices, especially myrrh and cassia.
To purify flesh, immerse body in oils and resins for no fewer than 40 days. Treat organs with spice and oils. Place treated lungs, liver, stomach, and intestines in individual Canopic jars of stone or alabaster, with stoppers.
Test body for doneness. When all flesh has been dissolved and naught but skin and bones remains, wash
body again.
Plump body and face with bags of
myrrh and cinnamon for a natural
look.
Important: Return heart (center of
intelligence and feeling) to chest.
Return kidneys to abdominal cavity
also, if desired.
Sew body incision if desired. Leave
small opening so heart may be
withdrawn for testing in the
underworld.
Anoint body with scented oils, or
treat with resin, or both.
Wrap body with strips of linen
treated with gum. Enclose scarab
over heart, along with other
protective amulets.
Place mask over head.
Place Scrolls of the Dead between
thighs so deceased can reach them
easily in the underworld.
Place body inside series of coffins,
including outer sarcophagus made
of stone.
Store upright in a cool, dark place.
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