What term is used for asphalt in the context of ancient Egyptian funerary practices?

In the context of ancient Egyptian funerary practices, the term "bitumen" refers specifically to a naturally occurring substance that was used in the mummification process and other burial rituals. Bitumen is a sticky, viscous form of petroleum that was prized for its preservative properties, making it ideal for embalming the deceased. Its use in the mummification process helped to prevent decay and dehydration of the body, which was essential for the ancient Egyptians’ beliefs in the afterlife.

In addition to its role in preserving bodies, bitumen was used as an adhesive and sealant in coffins and tombs, further emphasizing its significance in ancient funerary practices. The use of bitumen is historically substantiated through archaeological findings, which demonstrate its widespread application in funerary contexts.

Other substances like tar, resin, and pitch do have their own historical uses, but they do not specifically capture the same association with the ancient Egyptian burial practices as bitumen does. Tar, for instance, is a thicker derivative of bitumen but does not have the same historical context. Resin and pitch are also different substances that were used for various purposes but are not synonymous with the application of bitumen in funerary rites. Thus, bitumen stands out as the