Stories with Tag Ancient Egypt

• The Meter, Golden Ratio, Pyramids, and Cubits, Oh My

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  Posted: 2025-02-28 17:15:04

  Verbose tl;dr

  The blog post explores the interconnectedness of various measurement systems and mathematical concepts, examining potential historical links that are likely coincidental. The author notes the near equivalence of a meter to a royal cubit times the golden ratio, and how this relates to the dimensions of the Great Pyramid of Giza. While acknowledging the established historical definition of the meter based on Earth's circumference, the post speculates on whether ancient Egyptians might have possessed a sophisticated understanding of these relationships, potentially incorporating the golden ratio and Earth's dimensions into their construction. However, the author ultimately concludes that the observed connections are likely due to mathematical happenstance rather than deliberate design.

  This blog post delves into a fascinating, albeit speculative, exploration of the potential interconnectedness between various metrological systems, specifically the meter, the Egyptian royal cubit, and the mathematical concept of the Golden Ratio, often denoted by the Greek letter phi (Φ). The author embarks on a journey to examine the historical development of the meter, tracing its origins back to the French Revolution and its initial definition as one ten-millionth of the distance from the North Pole to the Equator along a meridian passing through Paris. This geodetic definition, the author posits, might hold a hidden connection to ancient Egyptian metrology.

  The post introduces the Egyptian royal cubit, an ancient unit of length approximately equal to 0.5236 meters, and highlights its purported relationship with the dimensions of the Great Pyramid of Giza. The author suggests a possible link between the pyramid's perimeter at its base and the circumference of the Earth, scaled by a factor related to the number of days in a year. This connection, the author argues, could imply that the ancient Egyptians possessed a sophisticated understanding of geodesy and metrology, potentially surpassing even that of the 18th-century French scientists who defined the meter.

  Further fueling this intriguing narrative, the author brings the Golden Ratio into the equation. Phi, an irrational number approximately equal to 1.618, is known for its aesthetic properties and its appearance in various natural phenomena. The author explores the potential relationship between the meter, the royal cubit, and phi, suggesting that the meter might have inadvertently inherited a connection to the Golden Ratio through its geodetic definition and the presumed geodetic knowledge embedded within the Great Pyramid's dimensions. This implication, though lacking definitive proof, raises the possibility that the seemingly arbitrary length of the meter might possess a deeper, more ancient significance, resonating with the mathematical harmonies observed in nature and possibly echoing the advanced metrological understanding of ancient civilizations.

  While acknowledging the speculative nature of these connections, the author invites readers to consider the possibility of a hidden thread linking seemingly disparate elements across millennia, suggesting that the meter, far from being a purely arbitrary unit of measurement, might be subtly intertwined with ancient wisdom and the fundamental mathematical principles governing the universe. The post concludes with an open-ended invitation to further explore these intriguing connections, encouraging readers to ponder the potential historical and mathematical implications of these interwoven concepts.

  • metrology
  • history of measurement
  • ancient measurement
  • cubit
  • meter
  • Golden Ratio
  • pyramid
  • Great Pyramid of Giza
  • mathematics
  • geometry
  • Ancient Egypt
  • Egyptology
  • Mythology
  • pseudoscience
  • scientific skepticism

  Summary of Comments ( 13 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43207962

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters largely dismiss the linked article as numerology and pseudoscience. Several point out the arbitrary nature of choosing specific measurements and units (meters, cubits) to force connections. One commenter notes that the golden ratio shows up frequently in geometric constructions, making its presence in the pyramids unsurprising and not necessarily indicative of intentional design. Others criticize the article's lack of rigor and its reliance on coincidences rather than evidence-based arguments. The general consensus is that the article presents a flawed and unconvincing argument for a relationship between these different elements.

  The Hacker News post titled "The Meter, Golden Ratio, Pyramids, and Cubits, Oh My" has generated a moderate number of comments, most of which express skepticism and amusement at the original article's attempt to connect the meter to the Great Pyramid of Giza via the golden ratio and cubits.

  Several commenters point out the historical inaccuracy of the claims. One commenter highlights that the meter's definition has changed over time, initially being related to the Earth's circumference and only later linked to a physical artifact. This debunks the idea of a pre-planned connection to ancient Egyptian measurements. Another commenter mentions the imprecision inherent in measuring the pyramid itself, making any exact correspondence with the meter highly improbable. The variability in historical cubit lengths is also raised, further undermining the argument for a precise relationship.

  Another line of discussion centers on the perceived "pyramid inch" and its alleged relationship to British Imperial units. Commenters dismiss this connection as coincidental and highlight the convoluted logic required to arrive at such a conclusion. The tendency to find patterns where none exist is also discussed, referencing the phenomenon of pareidolia.

  Some commenters approach the topic with humor, joking about the prevalence of such theories and the fascination with hidden connections. One commenter sarcastically suggests a connection between the size of their foot and the circumference of Jupiter. Another uses the opportunity to plug a book debunking similar historical myths.

  A few commenters attempt to engage with the mathematical aspects, discussing the golden ratio and its properties. However, these discussions generally reinforce the skepticism towards the original article's claims, emphasizing the lack of evidence for any meaningful connection.

  In summary, the comments on Hacker News largely reject the premise of the linked article. They point out historical inaccuracies, methodological flaws, and the general implausibility of the proposed connections. The overall tone is one of skepticism, occasionally tinged with humor and amusement at the article's attempts to find profound meaning in numerical coincidences.

• Excavated: 52 Egyptian Mummies. Over a Dozen Had Mysterious Golden Tongues

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  Posted: 2025-02-03 15:04:07

  Verbose tl;dr

  Archaeologists in Egypt unearthed 52 mummies dating back to the Ptolemaic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Several of the mummies, found at the Taposiris Magna temple near Alexandria, were interred with golden tongues, likely placed there as part of a ritual to enable the deceased to speak to Osiris, the god of the underworld, in the afterlife. The excavation also revealed other artifacts including gold foil amulets, pottery, and burial masks.

  In a remarkable archaeological discovery near the ancient Egyptian city of Taposiris Magna, situated southwest of Alexandria, a team of archaeologists has unearthed an astounding 52 mummies dating back to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. These mummies, interred within a network of burial shafts carved deep into the bedrock, offer a captivating glimpse into the funerary practices and beliefs of the era. While the majority of the mummies were found in a relatively poor state of preservation, likely due to the ravages of time and the less elaborate methods of embalming employed for individuals of presumably lower social standing, a select few were adorned with meticulously crafted golden tongues.

  This unique and perplexing feature, discovered in over a dozen of the excavated mummies, has ignited considerable scholarly intrigue. The purpose of these gilded tongues remains shrouded in mystery, though several hypotheses have been proposed. One prominent theory posits that the golden tongues served a ritualistic function, enabling the deceased to eloquently plead their case before Osiris, the Egyptian god of the underworld and judge of the dead. In this interpretation, the golden tongue acted as a symbolic prosthesis, ensuring clear communication and persuasive speech in the afterlife. Another possible explanation suggests that the golden tongues were intended to magically protect the deceased from malevolent forces or curses believed to be prevalent in the realm of the dead. This protective amulet theory aligns with the ancient Egyptian belief in the power of spells and amulets to ward off evil.

  The excavation also yielded other fascinating artifacts, including gilded masks, cartonnage decorations adorned with gold leaf, and papyri fragments. These accompanying finds, while less sensational than the golden tongues, contribute significantly to our understanding of the deceased individuals and the broader cultural context of their burials. The cartonnage decorations, in particular, showcase the artistic skill and craftsmanship of the period, while the papyri fragments hold the potential to reveal valuable information about the lives and beliefs of the people who inhabited Taposiris Magna during this pivotal period in Egyptian history. Further research and analysis of these artifacts promise to shed more light on the enigmatic golden tongues and the intricate funerary rituals practiced in ancient Egypt. The ongoing archaeological investigation at Taposiris Magna continues to unlock secrets of the past and deepen our appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of this ancient civilization.

  • Egypt
  • Egyptian mummies
  • Mummies
  • archaeology
  • Golden tongues
  • Ancient Egypt
  • Burial rituals
  • Taposiris Magna
  • Excavation
  • Afterlife beliefs
  • Ptolemaic Period

  Summary of Comments ( 15 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42918850

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters discuss the purpose of the golden tongues, with some suggesting they were intended to allow the deceased to speak to Osiris in the afterlife, referencing similar artifacts and practices. Others speculate about potential symbolic meanings related to speech, silence, or magic. Some express skepticism about the "gold" material, suggesting it could be another metal. There's also a thread questioning the ethics and potential damage caused by such excavations, arguing for leaving artifacts undisturbed. Finally, a few users comment on the sensationalized title and the frequency of similar mummy discoveries in Egypt.

  The Hacker News post titled "Excavated: 52 Egyptian Mummies. Over a Dozen Had Mysterious Golden Tongues" linking to a Popular Mechanics article about golden tongues found in mummies sparked a moderate discussion with several interesting comments.

  Many commenters focused on the purpose of the golden tongues. One popular theory discussed was that the tongues were meant to allow the deceased to speak to Osiris, the god of the afterlife, in the underworld. This idea was mentioned repeatedly, with some users citing historical and religious context around Egyptian burial practices. One user specifically referenced the "Book of the Dead" and its spells aimed at enabling speech in the afterlife. Another comment built upon this, suggesting the gold might have symbolized the purity of the words spoken to Osiris.

  Several commenters also discussed the practical aspects of the process. One questioned how the golden tongues were inserted, speculating about whether the real tongue was removed first or if the gold was simply placed on top. Another user, referencing their experience with modern prosthetic devices, pondered about the potential discomfort or pain such a procedure might have caused, and wondered about the materials and methods used by the ancient Egyptians.

  Beyond the practical and religious aspects, some users pointed out the evocative nature of the discovery. One commenter described it as both "fascinating" and "creepy," capturing the mix of awe and unease the practice might inspire.

  There was some brief speculation about the social status of those buried with golden tongues. One commenter suggested it might indicate wealth or religious devotion. Another wondered if it was a widespread practice or limited to a specific group or time period.

  Finally, a few commenters offered links to further reading and resources related to ancient Egyptian burial practices and the Book of the Dead, allowing interested readers to delve deeper into the topic. One user also provided some corrections regarding the original article, pointing to a potentially misleading figure.

  In summary, the comment section provides a mixture of informed speculation about the religious and practical aspects of the golden tongues, reflections on the evocative nature of the discovery, and links to further information. While not an exhaustive scholarly discussion, the comments offer intriguing perspectives on the topic.

• An Astronomical View of Ancient Egyptian Star Clocks (2021)

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  Posted: 2025-01-20 23:07:54

  Verbose tl;dr

  This study re-examines the use of star clocks, or diagonal star tables, in ancient Egypt. By digitally reconstructing the night sky as seen from specific locations and times in Egypt, the researchers demonstrate how these tables functioned. Each table tracked fifteen decanal stars, marking the passage of time throughout the night by their sequential risings and culminations. The study reveals a continuous tradition of star clock use spanning multiple dynasties, with tables adjusted for precession. It also highlights regional variations and potential administrative uses of these astronomical tools, solidifying their importance for timekeeping in ancient Egyptian society.

  The ArcGIS StoryMap titled "An Astronomical View of Ancient Egyptian Star Clocks (2021)" presents a compelling exploration of how ancient Egyptians utilized the observable movements of select stars to measure and track the passage of time during the night. The narrative unfolds by initially establishing the context of ancient Egyptian cosmology, emphasizing their deep reverence for the celestial realm and its perceived influence on earthly affairs. The Egyptians viewed the stars not merely as luminous points but as deities and vital components of a complex cosmic order. This reverence fueled their meticulous observations and record-keeping of celestial phenomena.

  The story then delves into the mechanics of the diagonal star clocks, also known as "star tables" or "diagonal calendars." These sophisticated instruments, often inscribed on coffin lids or tomb ceilings, employed a grid system with decans – groups of stars that rose consecutively – listed across the top and rows representing sequential hours of the night. By observing which decan culminated – reached its highest point in the sky – at a specific time, one could determine the current hour. The StoryMap elucidates this process with interactive visualizations and detailed descriptions, demonstrating how the diagonal arrangement facilitated the tracking of time as different decans became prominent throughout the night. Furthermore, it highlights the evolving nature of these clocks across different periods of Egyptian history, explaining how the selection of decans and the structure of the tables adapted to account for the slow precession of the equinoxes, which causes the positions of stars to shift gradually over time.

  The narrative also explores the use of transit clocks, sometimes referred to as "merkhet clocks." These relied on the observation of stars crossing the meridian, an imaginary line running north to south directly overhead. Using a merkhet, an ancient Egyptian astronomical instrument consisting of a plumb line and sighting tool, observers could precisely determine when a specific star transited the meridian, thereby marking a particular hour. The StoryMap details the practical application of this method and its integration into the broader framework of Egyptian timekeeping.

  The StoryMap further elaborates on the connection between these celestial observations and the Egyptian calendar system, including the development of the civil calendar and its relationship to the rising of Sirius, the brightest star in the sky. The heliacal rising of Sirius, its first appearance on the eastern horizon just before sunrise after a period of invisibility, coincided with the inundation of the Nile, a crucial event in the agricultural cycle. This observation was not only vital for practical purposes but also imbued with religious significance, further strengthening the connection between the celestial and terrestrial realms in Egyptian thought.

  Finally, the StoryMap emphasizes the remarkable precision and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian astronomy, showcasing how these star clocks provided a sophisticated means of measuring time during the night, facilitating both religious rituals and practical activities. The interactive elements and detailed explanations effectively convey the complex astronomical principles underpinning these ancient timekeeping methods, offering a glimpse into the remarkable scientific achievements of this ancient civilization.

  • Ancient Egypt
  • astronomy
  • Star Clocks
  • archaeology
  • Timekeeping
  • History of Astronomy
  • Egyptian Astronomy
  • Story Map
  • ArcGIS
  • 2021
  • Night Sky
  • Constellations
  • Cultural Astronomy

  Summary of Comments ( 2 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42774228

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN users discussed the practicality and accuracy of Egyptian star clocks, questioning their true function. Some doubted their precision for timekeeping, suggesting they were more likely used for ritual or symbolic purposes related to the rising and setting of specific stars. Others highlighted the complexity of deciphering their meaning due to the long passage of time and shifting astronomical alignments. The role of priests in using these clocks, and their potential connection to religious ceremonies, was also a topic of interest. Several commenters appreciated the visual representation of the star clocks, but wished for more technical details and context within the ArcGIS story map itself. The limited written record from the Egyptians themselves makes definitive conclusions difficult, leaving room for speculation and further research.

  The Hacker News post titled "An Astronomical View of Ancient Egyptian Star Clocks (2021)" has several comments discussing the linked article about Egyptian star clocks. Several users engaged with the content, expressing interest and offering further insights.

  One commenter pointed out the cleverness of the Egyptian system, which didn't require explicit measurement of time intervals but instead focused on marking specific points in the night. This eliminated the need for precise, consistent timekeeping devices, which were technologically challenging at the time. They highlighted the practicality of this approach for religious observances and civil purposes.

  Another user expanded on this idea, drawing a parallel between these star clocks and sundials. They noted that both rely on celestial movements to mark specific times or events rather than measuring durations. This user also touched on the cultural significance of these instruments, connecting them to the Egyptian understanding of cosmology and the passage of time.

  Furthering the discussion on practicality, another comment mentioned the limitations of the star clocks due to weather conditions. The reliance on visible stars meant that cloudy nights rendered the clocks unusable. This observation prompted a short discussion about the challenges of timekeeping in ancient civilizations and the limitations imposed by the available technology.

  One user expressed fascination with the diagonal star tables and the inherent astronomical knowledge they represent. They questioned the level of precision these ancient Egyptians possessed and wondered about the development and refinement of their astronomical observations over time.

  A separate comment pointed out a detail from the linked article about the orientation of the star tables and their relation to the cardinal directions. This comment enriched the understanding of how these tables were used in practice, connecting the physical layout to the observation of star movements.

  A final comment mentioned the inherent imprecision of the Egyptian system and the varying lengths of hours throughout the year. This contributed to the overall discussion of the limitations of these star clocks while acknowledging their ingenuity within the context of the available technology and knowledge.

  In summary, the comments on Hacker News demonstrate a genuine appreciation for the ingenuity and cultural significance of the Egyptian star clocks. They also delve into the practical limitations and inherent imprecision of the system, reflecting a nuanced understanding of ancient Egyptian timekeeping practices.