The scent of copal is believed to be therapeutic. It is placed in the offerings of the Day of the Dead as a purifier of the environment, which allows the spirits of our loved ones to enter the homes without risk. They also used it in various energy cleansing ceremonies, such as temazcales, and to make protective or purifying remedies and incense. In this ritual, the copal was offered to the four cardinal points and to the Sun to guarantee the protection of the people and gratitude for the crops. Pre-Hispanic civilizations such as that of the Aztecs and Mayans placed it in a clay incense burner as food for the Gods. The rising smoke takes the prayers to the heavens and the gods. It symbolizes the transformation from the physical, the tree, to the supernatural, the perfumed smoke. Copalli incense comes from the copal tree. The word copal comes from the Náhuatl word “copalli” which means, “incense”. They are also thought to guide the spirits thanks to their potent and fresh scent.Ĭopal incense was burned in Mesoamerica in ancient times and is still burned for special ceremonies and is often placed on or near Day of the Dead altars as another olfactory element to draw in the spirits. You can find them in orange and purple, representing the earth and grief, respectively. This flower, used since ancient times for its medicinal properties, brings a unique color to the shrine that makes the spirits feel joyful and peaceful. It grows plentifully at this time of year in Mexico and its pungent odor is said to attract the spirits who come to visit their mortal loved ones on this day. (“Flor de Muerto”): Is a flower used in Day of the Dead altars and to decorate graves.
With more elaborate ofrendas, you can find up to seven levels. The most common ones have three levels, which represent heaven, earth, and the underworld.
In some regions, you can find a flat surface with all the elements on it, while in others you can find several levels. Every state in Mexico has its own particular way of setting up their ofrendas. Candles are often left in the form of a cross to represent the cardinal directions, so the spirits can find their way. Earth is represented by food, especially bread. Papel picado, or traditional paper banners, represent the wind. Water is left in a pitcher so the spirits can quench their thirst. Every ofrenda also includes the four elements: water, wind, earth and fire. Many people make altars or “ofrendas” (offerings) in their homes to honor their loved ones who have died. From Monarch Butterflies to native Copalli incense to Cempasúchitl – learn about many of the imagery, symbols, and traditions… Some traditions are rooted in ancient meso-American traditions, some came from Spanish/European cultural traditions, and some have evolved over the 3,000+ years of celebrations. Every detail represents something significant and special in the remembrance of loved ones. The Dia de los Muertos holiday is filled with beautiful symbols, traditions, and imagery.
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