In Mexico and other countries, it is traditional to prepare an “altar of the dead” with various Christian symbols for November 2, the day of the faithful departed and also known as the Day of the Dead.
The tradition, typical of the inculturation of Christianity with the pre-Hispanic cultures present in Mexico, seeks to create a space of memory and prayer for deceased loved ones.
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Below we present 8 important symbols that cannot be missing on an altar for the dead:
1. Have 3 levels
The three levels on the altar of the dead are related to the “levels” of the Church: the Church militant, those of us who live on earth; the purgative Church, the souls of the deceased who are in purgatory to prepare for the beatific vision of God; and the Church triumphant, which is in Heaven.
2. A bow
It serves as an allegory for the gateway to Heaven.
3. The Cross and an image of the Virgin
The Cross reminds us of the death of Christ, who gave his life for our sins, but who with his resurrection triumphed over death and opened the doors of Heaven for us. The image of the Virgin Mary reminds us that she is our mother and intercessor.
4. Holy water
It reminds us of the holy water used in our baptism, which makes us children of God, members of Christ and we are incorporated into the Church.
5. Photographs of our loved ones
It helps us remember them and keep them present in our prayers.
6. Candles
One is placed for each deceased loved one, and they symbolize the light of Christ, as well as faith and hope.
7. Food
On the altar of the dead, their favorite dishes of food are usually placed as a memory of our deceased loved ones.
8. Cempasuchil flowers
It represents the light of the sun and is part of pre-Columbian Mexican traditions, which believed that it guided the dead to the altar. They are usually placed forming a cross.
This story was originally published on October 28, 2018. It has been updated for republication.
David Ramos
Graduated in Communication Sciences from the Universidad Privada del Norte in Trujillo, Peru. With more than 12 years of experience in Catholic journalism working at ACI Prensa, I have been based in Mexico since 2018. I have covered Pope Francis’ trips to Ecuador, Paraguay, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Peru and Panama.