Insects and Immortality : the importance of arthropods in burial practices across the world

Abstract : lnsects and other arthropods played a predominant raie in myths and beliefs, and consequently in human practices. Here we will focus on burial practices. Funerary archaeoentomology, the study of insect remains in burial contexts, is used to reconstruct funerary practices of past civilizations and to better understand the raie of insects in the life and death of these populations. By studying the behavior, representations, and presence of insects in burial context, it is possible to explain why some insects became symbols in the past. Our aim is to understand and compare the importance of insects in the symbolism of three ancient civilizations, as well as their impact on burial practices. What do arthropods tell us about these practices? What is the meaning and origin of these sacred insects?

A comparison of distinct civilizations across the world shows similarities in the way they turn an insect into a symbol. Although the treatment of the deceased differs, each arthropod studied has similar powers. They give the deceased immortality. ln ancient Egypt as in China during the Han Dynasty, when someone died, their body had to be kept intact to access afterlife.  The sacred insects of  these civilizations are thought to have a capacity for rebirth.

1n Egypt, the morphological and ethological traits of the scarab influenced burial practices, such as mummification [1]. Besides repulsive substances, amulets, and prayers were placed with the deceased to prevent especially flies from approaching [2]. However, flies have an important meaning. Many depictions of them exist. A Symbol of courage when associated with warriors, flies have a raie in preserving the body when associated to the deceased [3].

ln Ancient China, the cicada symbolized immortality. They were carved in jade to preserve the body from decomposition [4, 5]. However, the significance of cicadas in burial practices remains little studied.

ln Ancient Peru, rebirth is also important in beliefs, especially for the Mochicas, and is symbolized by the fly. As it is involved in the decomposition of the body, it then carries the spirit of the deceased [3]. Another arthropod, the spider, symbolizes the cycle of life and death. lts representation in burial context refers to a rebirth [6]. Thus, funerary archaeoentomology has revealed the importance of necrophagous insects in preparing the deceased and has led to a better understanding of funerary practices.