2,200-year-old Egyptian vase reveals evidence of hallucinogenic rituals

Researchers have discovered traces of a hallucinogenic drink in a 2,200-year-old Egyptian vase depicting Bes, a dwarf god associated with childbirth and merriment. The findings, detailed in the November 13 issue of Scientific Reports, suggest the vessel was used during rituals to recreate a mythical story about appeasing a sky goddess. The vase, kept at the Tampa Museum of Art, was analyzed using advanced chemical techniques, including ancient DNA extraction and infrared spectroscopy.

Chemical composition indicates ritual use

Traces of wild rue, Egyptian lotus and Cleome plant, all known for their psychotropic properties, were found in the vase. report by the University of South Florida. So were ingredients such as sesame seeds, pine nuts and grapes foundwhich researchers believe has been used to mimic the appearance of blood. Human body fluids, including saliva and blood, were identified, indicating ritual consumption or intentional ingestion into the brew. These findings point towards the drink’s use in reenactments of the ‘Myth of the Sun’s Eye’, in which Bes pacifies the bloodthirsty goddess Hathor with a spiked, blood-like drink.

Potential link with oracular practices

The vase may also have been associated with prophetic rituals. Researchers suggest that the drink could have been consumed in practices associated with the cult of Bes, especially in the Bes Chambers in Saqqara, where individuals sought dream-induced prophecies. According to Branko van Oppen, curator at the Tampa Museum of Art and co-author of the study, the combination of ingredients may have been used during childbirth-related rituals to predict pregnancy outcomes.

Origin and future studies

The vase, which the museum purchased in 1984, comes from a private collection, but lacks a precise archaeological context. The researchers believe the analysis provides critical insights into ancient Egyptian mythological and ritual practices, and may shed light on broader cultural beliefs surrounding childbirth and divination. It is expected that further studies will explore the significance of such rituals in Greco-Roman Egypt.