The ancient Vedas (ancient Hindu texts which are around 3500 years old) of the Indian sub-continent also make references to goddess Lakshmi’s nose piercings. However, most believe that the modern day practice of body piercing was brought to India by the 16th century Mogul emperor’s of the Middle East. Tongue piercings were practiced among the ancient Mayans and the Aztecs of Central America. They pierced their tongue in order to draw blood that would enable them to communicate with their gods. Septum piercing is another common practice among the primitive cultures of our world. In fact, septum piercings are more commonly seen than even nose piercings. Some stretch these piercings and insert large pieces of jewellery such as feathers, pig’s tusks, and pieces of bone or wood.
Other types of body piercings such as nipple and genital piercings were also found in several ancient cultures. Some did it to enhance their sexual experience, like those of the Gupta Empire of today’s India, while some other cultures did it for just the opposite reason – to diminish their sexual activity. Navel piercings on the other hand, seem to be a very modern innovation. Although some may argue that the ancient Egyptians practiced naval piercing, there is very little proof of that claim.
Other types of body piercings such as nipple and genital piercings were also found in several ancient cultures. Some did it to enhance their sexual experience, like those of the Gupta Empire of today’s India, while some other cultures did it for just the opposite reason – to diminish their sexual activity. Navel piercings on the other hand, seem to be a very modern innovation. Although some may argue that the ancient Egyptians practiced naval piercing, there is very little proof of that claim.
RSS Feed
