One of the most valued and famous Mexican traditions in the world is the one that has to do with the Day of the Dead and the tradition is very specific about how to celebrate this date, including, of course, the altar of the dead. Here are the three elements that cannot be missing:
According to the Government of Mexico page, Each of the three elements that make up the Day of the Dead altar offering, candles, flowers and copal, has a specific meaning, reflecting the symbolism and tradition of this celebration..
Candle holders: This means the ascension of the spirit and is a symbol of “light”, faith and hope. They also guide souls so they can reach their old homes.
Flores: These serve as guide to the path of souls and it is traditional to use flowers such as Cempasúchil, Nube and Alhelí.
Copal and incense: This is used to ward off evil spirits and that your deceased family can enter your home without danger, copal was used by the indigenous people.
Origin of the Day of the Dead
National Geographic mentions that, In pre-Hispanic times, the cult of death was carried out by wrapping the bodies in a mat and the relatives organized a party in order to guide them on their journey to Mictlán..
The origin comes from the indigenous peoples where they offered food on altars to their faithful dead.the ancient Mexicas, Mixtecs, Texcocanos, Zapotecs, Tlaxcaltecas, Totonacas and other native peoples, adapted the veneration of their dead to the Christian calendar, which coincided with the end of the corn agricultural cycle.
November 1, according to the Catholic calendar, this day is dedicated to children, November 2 is to the faithful deceased adults. However, over time new dates have been implemented, such as the one dedicated to pets established for October 27.
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The post Day of the Dead 2025: Elements on the altar of the dead that should not be missing due to tradition in Mexico appeared first on Veritas News.
