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Ofendas are an essential part of the Day of the Dead celebrations. The word ofrenda means offering in Spanish. They are also called altares or
altars, but they are not for worshiping. Some people mistakenly think that Mexicans that set up altars for their defunct relatives are actually worshiping them. Nothing
further from the truth. The vast majority of Mexicans are Christian Catholics, so they only worship God.
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Ofrendas are set up to remember
and honor the memory of their ancestors. Before setting an altar, they thoroughly clean their house. We must remember they are going to have very important "visitors".
The ofrenda is set on a table, covered with a fine tablecloth, preferably
white. Then the papel picado, cut tissue paper, is set over the cloth. |
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Several levels can be set on the ofrendas. Generally on the top level the images of
Saints and
the Crucifix are set.
For each deceased relative a candle is set. Their light is thought to guide them on their way back. The
light of the candles, also called ceras -waxes- symbolize Jesus Christ Reborn and faith. |
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Flowers, specially Cempasuchitl , adorn the ofrenda.
Flowers represent the fugacity of life. |
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Salt and
water are also essential; they are set to quench the thirst of the souls, tired from their long trip. Water also purifies and
cleanses.
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Incense, Copal, is burned and thought to elevate prayers to God.
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Pictures of the defunct are placed on the ofrenda, as well as some of their favorite clothing, perhaps a hat or
a shawl. For the children they place small toys. |
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Food is specially prepared for the souls. Their preferred dishes are cooked for them and placed on the altar:
mole, tamales, fruits, arroz rojo -red rice-, hot chocolate and dried fruit. Some times cigarettes or liquor if the dead relative enjoyed them when
alive. And of course
Pan de Muerto |
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It is important to mention that they will not eat the food, they only enjoy the aroma.
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Sometimes a cross is made with petals of the cempasuchitl flower. Also with the petals, paths
are set to guide the souls to the ofrenda. |
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Sugar skulls and clacas -skeletons are also included.
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In many towns, there are contests of ofrendas. Judges go house by house and elect the three most beautiful
altars. Ofrendas are works of art, ephemeral art that is!
Day of the Dead Folk Art Gallery
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