New forensic analysis of First Dynasty Egyptian mass burials reveals fatal blunt force trauma on 39% of skulls, lending support to the theory of retainer sacrifice—where attendants were killed to accompany their ruler in death. The findings add scientific credibility to an ancient practice that has long been debated by archaeologists.
Background
Retainer sacrifice was a practice in ancient Egypt where servants or attendants were killed to accompany their deceased ruler to the afterlife, prevalent during the Early Dynastic Period (c. 3100–2686 BCE).
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Oct 5, 2026 at 12:00 PM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10