Researchers studied a 2,000-year-old Bes mug, examining it for chemical and DNA remnants. CNN
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery revealing that ancient Egyptians drank hallucinogenic beverages containing psychedelic drugs, bodily fluids, and alcohol during their rituals. This fascinating find comes from analyzing the residue in a 2,000-year-old mug that is currently displayed at the Tampa Museum of Art. The study, published on November 13 in the journal Scientific Reports, provides valuable insights into the ancient practices surrounding these mysterious vessels, which were often adorned with the head of Bes, an Egyptian deity associated with fertility, protection, and magical healing.
Bes-shaped mugs have puzzled Egyptologists for years. While scholars speculated that these vessels could have been used for religious, magical, or daily purposes, the exact nature of the liquids they held remained unclear. This study provides the first physical evidence of what might have been in these sacred mugs. Using chemical and DNA analysis, the researchers uncovered the presence of substances related to alcohol, psychotropic plants, and even human bodily fluids, offering a glimpse into the ancient rituals that revolved around Bes.
Dr. Davide Tanasi, the lead researcher and professor at the University of South Florida, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, “Religion is one of the most fascinating and puzzling aspects of ancient civilizations…we’ve found scientific proof that the Egyptian myths have some kind of truth.” This research is not just a glimpse into the past but also sheds light on the rituals that were likely carried out in the Bes Chambers near the Great Pyramids in Giza.
The team’s investigation centered on a Bes mug donated to the Tampa Museum of Art in 1984. By scraping and pulverizing the residue inside the mug, they discovered an intricate mixture of substances. While the researchers initially expected to find traces of alcohol, they were surprised by the complexity of the concoction. Among the substances identified were fermentation yeasts, which suggest the base of the beverage was likely beer or wine. It was also flavored with honey, sesame seeds, pine nuts, licorice, and even royal jelly, all ingredients commonly used in ancient Egyptian beverages. Grapes, which were sometimes used to make drinks resemble blood, were also found.
Davide Tanasi is holding a 3D-printed copy of the Egyptian Bes mug. CNN
The presence of bodily fluids, which may include blood, breast milk, and mucus, is a particularly intriguing aspect of the study. Researchers believe these fluids were intentionally added to the mixture, which would have enhanced its ritualistic and magical properties. The study also revealed the inclusion of psychotropic plants, such as the Egyptian blue water lily and Syrian rue, both of which are known for their hallucinogenic and medicinal properties. These plants could have induced altered states of consciousness, making them ideal for the vision-enhancing rituals associated with Bes.
One of the most exciting aspects of the discovery is the confirmation of what the vessels were used for. It is likely that the beverages were consumed in rituals that sought to induce dream-like visions, meditative states, or even euphoria. According to Branko van Oppen, a study coauthor and curator at the Tampa Museum of Art, these rituals may have been linked to the challenges of childbirth, with individuals seeking divine intervention or assistance during dangerous times. The Bes mugs may have served as a tangible reminder of the rituals performed.
Looking ahead, researchers hope to analyze additional Bes mugs from other museums to determine whether the contents of these vessels followed a consistent recipe across different archaeological sites. The study also opens the door to further exploration of ancient Egyptian religious practices and the role of hallucinogens in their culture.
