Psychology has been around for over 3500 years the ancient egyptians wrote about psychological conditions like depression and schizophrenia believing them to have supernatural causes

Psychology in Ancient Egypt: A Fascinating Journey into the Human Mind

When we think about the history of psychology, our minds often jump to the era of Freud and Jung, or perhaps the ancient Greeks like Socrates and Plato. However, the roots of this intriguing field go back much further than we may realize. In fact, psychology has been around for over 3500 years, with its origins rooted in the fascinating civilization of Ancient Egypt.

The Ancient Egyptians were known for their advancements in various disciplines, including medicine, architecture, and literature. Among these achievements, they also left behind valuable insights into the world of psychology. The Egyptian medical texts, such as the Edwin Smith Papyrus and the Ebers Papyrus, provide us with a glimpse into their understanding of psychological conditions, and how they attributed them to supernatural causes.

Depression, for instance, was considered a disorder of the mind. The Egyptians believed it was caused by the wrath of gods or the influence of evil spirits. They associated this mental distress with certain gods such as Seth and Apep, who were believed to bring about chaos and negativity. Similarly, schizophrenia, characterized by hallucinations and delusions, was also considered to have a supernatural origin. The Egyptians believed it to be a result of demonic possession or the presence of evil spirits.

Despite their attribution of psychological conditions to supernatural causes, the Ancient Egyptians also recognized the importance of physical health in maintaining a balanced mind. They believed that both the body and the mind were interconnected and that an imbalance in either could lead to psychological distress. Consequently, they paid great attention to physical well-being by prescribing various treatments, including herbal remedies, incantations, and magical rituals.

To better understand the Ancient Egyptians’ perspective on psychology, the Edwin Smith Papyrus provides valuable insights. Although primarily focused on surgical techniques, this medical document also touches upon psychological conditions and their treatment. It outlines procedures for treating depression, prescribing medicinal plants and prayers to appease the gods. Furthermore, it advises seeking the assistance of a “dream doctor” who could interpret dreams to identify and treat psychological ailments.

While the understanding of psychology in Ancient Egypt may seem primitive compared to our modern knowledge, it’s crucial to appreciate their contributions to this field’s development. Their emphasis on the interconnectedness of the mind and body and their belief in supernatural causes laid the foundation for future psychological investigations.

In conclusion, the Ancient Egyptians’ exploration of psychological conditions like depression and schizophrenia offers a unique perspective on the origin of psychology. Their belief in supernatural causes, as depicted in the Egyptian medical texts, opens doors to understanding their cultural and spiritual beliefs. By delving into their fascinating worldview, we can expand our knowledge and appreciation for the long and complex history of psychology.

Sources:

• Ancient Egyptian Medical Texts - World History Encyclopedia