The Controversy Surrounding the Exact Number of Casing Stones on the Great Pyramid of Giza

Introduction

The Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the most iconic structures in human history, was once adorned with white casing stones. These stones not only contributed to its aesthetic appeal but also played a crucial role in its architectural durability. A popular claim asserts that the pyramid contained approximately 144,000 casing stones. However, this number has been widely disputed. This article delves into the origins of this claim, examining the credibility of the sources and the methodology behind it.

Origins of the Claim

A 2009 book by Keith M. Hunter, titled “The Lost Age of High Knowledge: Evidence of an Advanced Civilisation Prior to Recorded History”, introduced the notion that the Great Pyramid was covered in 144,000 white casing stones. Hunter is a psychologist and not an archaeologist, Egyptologist, or engineer, which raises suspicions about the validity of his argument.

Keith M. Hunter: A Skeptical Figure

Keith M. Hunter is known for his New-Agey explorations of ancient civilizations, often found on fringe websites. His claim about the number of casing stones has found a home on sites like Ancient Origins and Occult. His credibility is further diminished by his involvement with Just Energy Radio, a platform that hosts discussions on parapsychology, conspiracy theories, and astrological predictions. A quick visit to their website reveals the eclectic mix of topics, none of which offers a rigorous academic atmosphere.

The Numerology and Measurement Controversy

Hunter’s claim is based on a numerological analysis of the pyramid's dimensions. He states that the ratio between the arc length from the equator to the pyramid and the base side length of the structure results in a number very close to 14400. However, his methodology is deeply flawed. He uses measurements in Imperial feet, which differ from the Egyptian cubit, span, and finger measurements. This discrepancy makes the math less tidy and undermines the precision of his claim.

Egyptian Construction Techniques vs. Exact Numbers

Another significant issue with the 144,000 number is the variation in the size of the casing stones. The builders used stones of varying sizes, from as small as 20 inches to as large as 60 inches in height, and masses ranging from 2 to 60 tons. Given this variation, it is unlikely that all the casing stones would be identical in size. It is common practice in ancient Egyptian construction to use smaller stones to fill in the gaps and reach the desired height. For example, in the image below, you can see that some rows consist of a single stone, while others have three to achieve the same height.

This variation suggests that the exact number of stones is less precise, and different combinations of stone sizes could achieve a similar effect. Therefore, the claim of 144,000 stones as an exact number is highly dubious.

Conclusion

The claim that the Great Pyramid of Giza was covered in 144,000 white casing stones is intriguing but lacking in empirical evidence. While the historical context of the pyramid’s construction and its original appearance is fascinating, the precise number of casing stones remains a subject of speculation rather than fact. As with many historical claims, it is important to approach such assertions with a critical eye, considering the credibility and methodology of the source.