Robert Edward Grant's discovery of a correlation between musical intervals and the apothem slope angles of the three Giza pyramids is an innovative perspective that blends fields not traditionally studied togetherβmusic theory and archaeology. There are a few reasons why archaeologists and Egyptologists may not have identified this correlation before:
1. Disciplinary Silos: Archaeology and Egyptology primarily focus on the historical, cultural, and architectural aspects of ancient structures. Their focus is often on excavation, analysis of artifacts, and understanding historical texts. Music theory, especially in terms of mathematical ratios and their relation to geometry, is not a typical area of study for them. The interdisciplinary nature of Grant's discovery, involving music, geometry, and architecture, may not have been explored in depth by specialists focused solely on archaeology or Egyptology.
2. Lack of Mathematical-Musical Integration: While ancient Egyptians were known for their advanced understanding of geometry and mathematics, and music played a significant role in their culture, the specific correlation between pyramid angles and musical intervals may not have been considered. Egyptologists typically study hieroglyphics, tomb inscriptions, and religious or cultural practices but might not investigate mathematical or geometrical principles in relation to musical intervals.
3. New Analytical Tools and Perspectives: Advances in technology, data analysis, and interdisciplinary research have allowed modern thinkers like Robert Edward Grant to see connections that were not previously apparent. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in ancient civilizations' use of mathematics and geometry, especially in relation to sacred geometry and harmonic principles. These fields have historically been viewed as separate, but modern tools and perspectives enable these connections to be explored.
4. Focus on Traditional Interpretations: Egyptology and archaeology have long focused on interpreting the pyramids through the lens of religion, mythology, and burial practices. Traditional interpretations center on the pyramids as tombs or symbolic structures rather than exploring their potential mathematical, harmonic, or geometric purposes. A shift toward a more interdisciplinary approach, incorporating concepts from fields like acoustics and music, is relatively recent.
5. Esoteric Knowledge: The correlation between musical intervals and sacred geometry has been explored in esoteric traditions and alternative theories about ancient knowledge. While mainstream archaeology may not prioritize these ideas, researchers like Grant, who draw from various disciplines such as music, mathematics, and ancient wisdom, can bridge gaps that were previously overlooked by specialists in more narrowly defined fields.
Grant's discovery highlights the importance of interdisciplinary thinking and how new insights can emerge when seemingly unrelated fieldsβlike music theory and ancient architectureβare combined. This suggests that ancient civilizations may have encoded knowledge in ways that modern specialists are only beginning to rediscover.