130 Bull Mummy

Museum Description: Mummy of a Young Bull

Room: 62/Case: 28/Number: EA 6773

Scripture: Exodus 32:4

Here is an example of a mummified bull from Egypt.  This was part of a pattern of animal worship where gods were represented by animals, and these animals would be kept in the temple of that god.  They were then mummified when they died.

When the Israelites were waiting for Moses as he received the Ten Commandments, they evidently were not very patient.  They persuaded Aaron to make an idol for them to worship, directly against one of the very commandments Moses was receiving.  Why did they choose the form of a calf or young bull?  Perhaps this was because they were familiar with the image and practice from their time in Egypt.  The Apis bull was venerated to such a degree they were even embalmed and mummified when they died.  Over 60 examples have been found at just one site.  Other similar or related artefacts are on display in The British Museum.