Groundbreaking Study Reveals Smoke-Dried Bodies Could Be World’s Oldest Mummies

In a groundbreaking study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers have uncovered evidence suggesting that some of the world’s oldest mummification practices may have originated in Asia over 10,000 years ago. The study challenges the conventional belief that mummification was primarily associated with ancient Egypt and South America.

The research focused on smoke-dried remains found in Asia, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, which are believed to be the world’s oldest mummies. The intact nature of these skeletons indicates that the bodies were not cremated, leading researchers to conclude that these ancient societies practiced a form of mummification through smoke-drying.

Mummies are traditionally associated with Egypt, where the oldest known mummies date back approximately 4,500 years. However, this new study suggests that mummification practices may have been independently developed in Asia long before their Egyptian counterparts.

According to the study, the discovery of these smoke-dried mummies in Asia sheds new light on the history of mummification and challenges existing narratives about its origins. The findings highlight the cultural diversity and complexity of ancient burial practices around the world.

While the exact methods and rituals used in the mummification process remain unclear, researchers are continuing to analyze the remains to gain further insights into these ancient practices. The study opens up new avenues for understanding the cultural and historical significance of mummification in different regions.

The implications of this research extend beyond archaeology and anthropology, offering a glimpse into the diverse ways in which ancient societies honored their deceased. By studying these ancient mummies, researchers hope to unravel the mysteries surrounding the origins of mummification and its significance in different cultural contexts.

As this study continues to garner attention from the global scientific community, it underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in uncovering the rich tapestry of human history and cultural practices.

#NexSouk #AIForGood #EthicalAI #AncientHistory #CulturalDiversity

References:
1. “Smoke-dried bodies could be world’s ‘oldest mummies’: study” – NDTV, [https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/smoke-dried-bodies-could-be-worlds-oldest-mummies-study-9285987]
2. “Scientists say they’ve found the world’s oldest mummies, and they’re far from Egypt” – NBC News, [https://www.nbcnews.com/world/asia/scientists-say-found-worlds-oldest-mummies-far-egypt-rcna231558]
3. “Smoke-dried remains found in Asia may be world’s oldest mummies” – CBS News, [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/oldest-mummies-smoke-dried-found-asia-study/]
4. “New study claims that mummies found in China and Southeast Asia are world’s oldest” – The Washington Times, [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/sep/16/new-study-claims-mummies-found-china-southeast-asia-worlds-oldest/]
5. “Study Reveals Smoke-Dried Bodies Could Be Oldest Mummies” – Editorialge, [https://editorialge.com/oldest-mummies-smoke-dried-bodies-asia/]

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