Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished tradition in Mexico rooted in ancient customs.
Unlike Halloween, which historically aimed to ward off evil spirits, this holiday is a heartfelt tribute to the afterlife, dedicated to honoring departed loved ones and preserving their memory.
Observed annually on November 1 and 2, Day of the Dead is a time when it is believed that the spirits of the deceased return home to reunite with their families. While Mexico is most commonly associated with this holiday, other countries also have their own versions of the celebration. For instance, in the Philippines, it is known as Undas, and is observed on the same days. Similarly, in Haiti, the day is called Fèt Gede, characterized by people donning white, black, and purple attire and parades held across the country.
The origins of Day of the Dead can be traced back to indigenous rituals, particularly those practiced by the Aztecs, who had a ceremonial event called Miccaihuitl dedicated to honoring the departed. With the arrival of the Spanish and their Catholic traditions, the Aztec customs merged with All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2), leading to the evolution of Día de los Muertos.
One of the most sacred aspects of Day of the Dead is the creation of altars, known as ofrendas. These altars, constructed in homes, schools, and public places, serve as a way to pay homage to the deceased. They are adorned with a large photograph of the departed, along with colorful papel picado, representing air. Marigold petals, with their vibrant hue and strong fragrance, guide the spirits back home. Candles illuminate the way and symbolize the departed, while pan de muerto, a traditional Mexican sweet bread with roots in Aztec traditions, is also a common feature. Sugar skulls, signifying the omnipresence of death, are often placed on the ofrendas. Salt, typically arranged in the form of a cross, purifies the visiting souls. Water and sometimes even tequila are provided to quench the thirst of the returning spirits. Some families add personal touches, such as the departed's favorite food or cherished mementos, like a beloved book or piece of clothing. All of these elements serve as a way to remember and honor the departed.
Day of the Dead is a celebration that embraces life and death, emphasizing the importance of cherishing the memories of those who have passed on. Through customs like ofrendas, families not only pay their respects but also create a bridge between the living and the deceased, fostering a connection that transcends the boundaries between this world and the afterlife.
By Salam Bustanji
