Nechet und Nil : Ein ägyptischer Frauensarg des Mittleren Reiches aus religionsökologischer Sicht

Sammanfattning: This study is an attempt to develop a model within the field of ecology of religion. Particular emphasis is laid on the need for a comprehensive theoretical point of departure with regard to dynamics, viz. contextuality, situationality and the interactive mecanisms in adaptive processes. The model is developed on a basis of P. Pruyser's object-relation theory, C. Bell's ritual theory, and V. DeMarinis connecting these theories with the individual in focus. In the present study the model named 'dynamic ecology of religion' especially emphasises the role the environment plays in ritual processes. The religio-symbolic environment is taken as the result of an adaptational practice, which is dependent on the situation. A consequence of the approach is the analysis of texts as ritual actions.In a case study this model is applied on an Egyptian woman's coffin from the Middle Kingdom which was found in the necropolis of Meir. The ecological factor that is looked for is the yearly inundation by the river Nile. It is shown that the inundation grants a person in its state of death the transition from one ontological level to another as well as the provision with offerings. The situationality is demonstrated in a comparative investigation. Parallelled are two different situations asking for nuances in the treatment of the ecological factor as a result of an adaptive ritual process. The result of the case study is tested through further source material from the egyptian coffin texts.