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First-time visitors to Mazatlán (or Mexico) who land on our shores at the
end of October through the beginning of November often find themselves in
souvenir stores standing before smiling ceramic skeletons dressed in weird
and wonderful hats and loose, colorful clothing, wondering “what is this
all about?” Skeletons are not generally considered a souvenir in North America
or Europe. What the unsuspecting tourist has encountered is the celebration
of an ancient, prehispanic, joyful Mexican tradition of honoring deceased
family members. Every year on November 1st and 2nd, the Day of the Dead
finds millions of families throughout Mexico gathering at the gravesites
of relatives, bringing a picnic of the deceased´s favorite food and drink,
decorating the grave with bright, large flowers (such as chrysanthemums
and marigolds) and generally enjoying the ambiance of a community celebration.
Traditionally, November 1st is dedicated to departed children (referred
to as the Day of the Little Angels) and November 2nd to adults. The families
remember their relatives with stories about their lives and believe the
souls of the dead return and surround them. In their homes, families construct
altars in honor of their ancestors and decorate them with items to entice
the souls to return and celebrate. In Mazatlán, altars are erected not only
in homes, but also in schools, businesses, malls and occasionally on the
street in an effort to reinforce the Mexican tradition of the Day of the
Dead, as opposed to the increasing popularity of Halloween among young people.
No matter its location, every altar is three-tiered and traditionally displays
some fundamental items. Most important is a photo of the person being remembered.
Also included are bright colored tissue paper in purple (for |
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pain), white (for
hope) and pink (for the celebration) cut in intricate designs. On the top
level of the altar four candles are placed to represent the cardinal points
and light the way for the soul to return. Three candy skulls are placed
on the second tier, which represent the Holy Trinity. On the third level
is a large skull, which represents the Giver of Life. In some cases, a small
burner is lit to dispel bad spirits and leave the way clear for the dead
soul to attend the celebration. Pan de Muerto, a special sweet egg-batter
Day of the Dead bread, is also placed on the altar accompanied by chocolates,
candy, fruit and the deceased´s favorite food and alcoholic beverage. The
Dead of the Day celebration is a ritual which has been practiced in Mexico
for over 3,000 years. Originally held during the Aztec month of Miccailhuitontli
(late July, early August), it was presided over by Mictecacihautl, the “Lady
of the Dead,” who was believed to have died at birth. During this period
in the Aztec civilization, skulls were kept as trophies which symbolized
death and rebirth. The Aztecs viewed death as a continuation of life, using
the skulls during the celebration as a way to honor the dead. With the arrival
of the Spaniards 500 years ago came attempts to convert the indigenous people
to Christianity. In a vain effort to quell what the Spanish priests considered
to be a sacrilegious rite, the conquistadors moved the celebration to coincide
with Chris-tianity´s All Hallows Eve on November 1st. The result is that
the modern Day of the Dead observance is a blend of ancient Aztec rituals
with the occasional Christian symbol added. Mexico´s ancient festival of
honoring the dead is an important ritual which recognizes the inter-relation
between life and death. It is a time for us to remember those who have left
us, and welcome them back into our hearts to share memories and good times. |
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