There are quite a lot of theories about the ties between some of the ancient civilisations, their architecture, cultures and beliefs to name a few. While no scientific evidence confirms that these civilisations could have had contact with one another, the similarities sure make one wonder.
In this article we explore some of the similarities found between the ancient Mayans and ancient Egyptians.
1. Philosophies and Spirituality
The ancient Mayans and ancient Egyptians had a lot more in common than you may think. While the Egyptians worshipped gods presented in animal form, the Mayans held a belief in mother nature. The consensus between the two civilisations lie in the fact that both lived in harmony with the world around them.
2. Pyramids and Architecture
The pyramids in Egypt and found in south America give us insights as to these civilisations’ cultural practices. Egyptian pyramids were used as tombs to embalm and bury leaders. Mayans used their structures as temples and places of worship. There are a lot of similarities in the structure of these pyramids, even though they are seemingly unrelated.
3. Hieroglyphics and Writing
Both the Mayans and Egyptians used hieroglyphics as a form of written language. Even though each civilisation had their structures, both were created on stone, except paper and jewellery in the case of the Egyptians. The hieroglyphics of each are read differently. Egyptian glyphs are read from right to left and Mayan glyphs from left to right.
4. Language and Communication
Even though no evidence proves the Mayans had a connection with the Egyptians, certain studies prove humans have been moving from one continent to another for longer than we thought. Researchers have discovered that there is a close relation between a Siberian language and a language spoken by Native Americans, providing efficient proof.
5. Plants and Medication
Scientists have already noted that a lot of the plants found in northern America are related to some of the plants found in Asia. Did you know there is American Ginseng and Chinese Ginseng? In America, the root is chewed or smoked, whereas Chinese Ginseng is used in tea. These two counterparts are described as yin and yang and each has its effects.
While there are a lot of similarities between cultures and even ancient ones at that, there is still no coherent conclusion on whether or not one another influenced ancient civilisations. What do you believe?