Importance of the Altar of the Dead

Understood as one of the most sacred spaces in the Mexican religious tradition, the altar of the dead officiates as the space where a religious ceremony is carried out whose objective is to offer and serve the gods.

The Mexican religious tradition: the gods and the dead

One of the characteristics most important and outstanding of the religion Mexican is the syncretism that has managed to unite both Catholic and Christian aspects in general with traditions native and pre-Columbian that are still present. In this sense, this syncretism often makes it possible to combine elements of the Christian tradition (such as the figure of Jesus or God) with practices that imply respect for the dead, the importance given to their return, etc

In this way, the concept of the altar of the dead appears, one that is built as a more or less complex space where the people they deposit figures, symbols, decorations, flowers, garlands, offerings and prayers. The altar of the dead can be collective and be found in a certain public space, but it can also be in the domestic sphere of the home.

Characteristics of a unique type of altar in the world

In general, the different religious traditions of the world show us very striking, special practices. Each one maintains its rites and its operation depends largely on respect for certain guidelines. However, it is undeniable that what we know as the Mexican tradition is one of the most colorful in the world and this is also visible in religion.

The altar of the dead, also called Tlamanalli, can vary in size although altars of two, three or seven levels are stipulated. In each of these levels the different offerings that are made to the gods are placed. They are organized according to the concept of the elements of the nature: some offerings represent the air, others the water, others the earth and others the fire. In addition, representative figures are usually placed that allude to the dead (who are summoned and celebrated), flowers, garlands, food, drink, fruits and seeds, perfumes, objects that you want to bless, skulls, etc

The Day of the Dead in the Mexican tradition

As occurs in many religions considered pagan, the coming of the dead is a very special moment since it allows the temporary union of the world of the living with the afterlife. In the case of the Mexican tradition, the coming dead are represented with skulls, with colors, with flowers and traditional clothing from pre-Columbian Mexico. This day, which takes place on or about October 31, is a time of celebration and celebration, although respect must be maintained for the dead, who are missed and feared.

Images: Fotolia. Alice – ML Harris