Flashcards
The meaning of the elements of the Day of the Dead altar
Cards in this deck (16)
- 1CandlesTo symbolize the fire.
Candles light the way home for the spirits and represent light, hope and faith. - 2Cempasúchitl Flowers/ MarigoldsTraditionally, the unique scent and bright color of marigolds are believed to help attract dead souls to the altar.
- 3Papel picado/ Chiseled PaperTo symbolize the wind.
The paper contains numerous holes. Some believe that these holes serve as doors for souls visiting their shrines.
The paper is also very fragile. This symbolizes the fragility of life.
- 4SaltThe salt is usually placed in the form of a cross as a way to purify the souls when crossing.
- 5Glass of WaterTo symbolize the element water.
A glass of water is placed on the altar to quench the thirst of the souls after their long journey.
- 6CopalIt is a tree resin used to make incense.
They believe that incense helps facilitate communication between the world of the living and the dead.
- 7PhotographsThis is seen as a way to call loved ones to the altar so they can cross over.
- 8FoodThe symbols of the earth on a Day of the Dead altar often take the form of food.
- 9Candy skullsSugar skulls, chocolate or amaranth seeds represent death and its presence in every moment.
- 10Xoloitzcuintli ceramicsAlso known as Mexican hairless dog, it is the particular breed that is considered by the Aztecs and Mayans as a guide in the afterlife.
- 11Different LevelsThe number of levels varies according to the region.
2 levels: symbolize heaven and earth.
3 levels: heaven, purgatory and earth.
7 levels: each of the steps a soul must take to reach heaven.
- 12ArchThe arches symbolize the doorway that a Day of the Dead shrine creates between the land of the living and the land of the dead.
- 13Day of the Dead BreadThe circle in the center of the bread represents a skull, the four buns placed on top in the shape of a cross represent the bones, which also represent the tears we shed for our loved ones.
- 14Spirited DrinksTequila, mezcal and pulque (fermented agave juice) are offered to adult souls to relax and enjoy as a family.
- 15Personal itemsIn some areas, utensils, clothes or toys are added to the offering to make it feel like home.
- 16Monarch ButterfliesButterflies are believed to be spirits of departed loved ones. Monarch butterflies, in particular, migrate to Mexico each year at the time of Day of the Dead, so it’s fitting that they appear in the festivities.
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- Description
- Altars are the cornerstone of many Day of the Dead celebrations, with incredible symbolism. They serve as places for families to honor their loved ones. Typically, ofrendas are decorated with candles, chiseled paper, water, the deceased's favorite food, personal items, candy skulls and, above all, marigold flowers. Each element has a specific meaning. Here are the most common objects found on altars and and the symbolic meanings behind each one.
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- Andrea Pan
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