Childbirth Tattoos of Ancient Egypt

Tattoos have been a part of human culture for centuries. From modern tattoos showing detailed depicted images of pets, drawings, phrases or words, to countless illustrations that almost 60% of people on Earth have today. Although, the meanings of tattoos can differ significantly. Acquiring a certain emblem can symbolize an individual’s alliance or membership to a group, gang, or cult. On the other hand, tattoos can symbolize a personal significance; for example: a drawing of a daisy flower behind the ear could embody the owner’s connection to making flower chains as a child. While many tattoos may suggest a deeper meaning behind the ink, some may not. Based on what many archeologists have been excavating within recent years, tattoos have held a strong meaning to women of Ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman heritage.

Once believed as a sign of prostitution, archeologists debate on what these dots and lines could symbolize. One of the most common hypotheses regarding the meaning of the tattoos on mummified women, is that they represent protection for childbirth. The placement of the tattoos are put into very distinct areas, places that typically enlarge or grow throughout pregnancy. 

Ancient burial sites across Egypt, Greece, and Rome have revealed a wealth of information about the significance of tattoos in ancient cultures. Mummified female figures carbon-dated to almost 4,000 years ago have been found with ink-stains in their skin, giving archaeologists a glimpse into the role of tattoos in Ancient Greco-Roman and Egyptian societies. These tattoos were often found on women believed to be of lower social classes or involved in entertainment, leading to debates about their purpose. Some archaeologists argue that the tattoos signified societal groups, such as those involved in prostitution or of low-class status, while others believe they were meant to protect women during pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, there are some indications that in the distant past, tattoos were used to alleviate joint pain and used for other medical remedies. 

Despite the debates about the meaning of ancient tattoos, it is clear that they held great significance for many people. Tattoos have been a part of human culture for centuries and can represent many things, from personal significance to group membership. The archaeological discoveries of tattooed female mummies reveal the strong connection between ancient cultures and their deities. The illustrations of deities of childbirth and protection found on the upper thighs of mummified figures suggest the belief and dedication that ancient citizens had in their gods and goddesses. These tattoos also demonstrate the cultural significance that was placed on safeguarding the actual birth of a child. Because the specific placement of these marks and drawings suggest that they were applied in order to “guard” the woman’s child as well as show the growth and progression of those certain tatted parts of the body throughout pregnancy. Along with dots and lines, illustrations of the Egyptian deity of childbirth and protection (Bes) were found on the upper thighs, an indication of security and protection of the child. Overall, the tattoos found on ancient mummies provide valuable insight into the beliefs, practices, and cultural significance of tattoos in ancient societies.

In conclusion, tattoos have played a significant role in human culture for thousands of years. From ancient times to modern-day, tattoos have served as a form of personal expression, as well as a representation of group membership or societal status. The archaeological discoveries of tattooed mummies from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome provide a unique glimpse into the cultural significance of tattoos in these societies. These tattoos tell us about the beliefs and practices of ancient cultures, as well as their connections to their deities. Although the meanings of tattoos may differ across cultures and time periods, they have always served as a powerful form of self-expression and cultural identity. As we continue to discover more about the history and significance of tattoos, we can better understand their enduring importance in human culture.

Mark, J. J. (2023, May 4). Tattoos in ancient Egypt. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved May 4, 2023, from https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1000/tattoos-in-ancient-egypt/

Magazine, S. (2007, January 1). Tattoos. Smithsonian.com. Retrieved May 4, 2023, from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/tattoos-144038580/Killgrove, K. (2022, November 14). Protective childbirth tattoos found on ancient Egyptian mummies. LiveScience. Retrieved May 4, 2023, from https://www.livescience.com/ancient-egyptian-mothers-protective-tattoos-childbirth