Answer: Warfare.
Some extra relevant information:
In ancient Egypt, clerical work played a crucial role in the functioning of societies. These administrative tasks included record-keeping, correspondence, and managing the affairs of the government, temples, and estates. However, one specialty that was not typically associated with clerical work in ancient Egypt was embalming and mummification.
Embalming and mummification were highly specialized practices that involved the preservation of the deceased’s body for the afterlife. This process was performed by embalmers who had specific knowledge and skills related to anatomy, preservation techniques, and ritual practices. While it involved meticulous record-keeping of the embalming process and rituals performed, it did not fall under the purview of clerical work.
Clerical work in ancient Egypt primarily revolved around administrative duties, such as maintaining official records, managing inventories and accounts, and overseeing legal and financial matters. Records and correspondence were often written on papyrus scrolls or inscribed on temple walls, providing valuable insights into the activities and management of ancient Egyptian society.
Scribes, who were highly educated individuals, were responsible for carrying out most clerical work in ancient Egypt. They were trained in the art of writing hieroglyphs and hieratic script, enabling them to accurately record and document events, transactions, and important information. Scribes held important positions within the government, temples, and households.
The expertise of scribes in clerical work extended to various domains. They maintained tax and census records, managed land grants and property ownership, and documented the distribution of grain and other resources. Scribes were also involved in the organization and cataloging of ancient texts and religious manuscripts, contributing to the preservation of Egypt’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
While ancient Egypt had a complex and intricate funerary culture, which included embalming and mummification, these practices were carried out by specialized embalmers and not considered part of the regular clerical work. The clerical class in ancient Egypt played a vital role in the smooth functioning of society and the preservation of administrative, legal, and historical records.