A Look Into Dia de los Muertos

It began more than 500 years ago when the Spanish Conquistadors landed in what is now Mexico. What they encountered, however, left them curiously enticed and mysteriously intrigued. The ritual was that of the indigenous people; a ritual that had been practiced for nearly 3,000 years. To the Spaniards, it appeared as a 'mock death', something that they later unsuccessfully attempted to eradicate. The ritual? Dia de los Muertos; a Mexican Holiday reserved to honor and celebrate the passing of loved ones.

Although much of the ritual has since been merged with Catholic theology, the basic principles of the Aztec, such as the use of the skull, remains. The Aztec's and other Meso-Americans displayed these skulls as trophies; a symbol of death and rebirth. Today, people wear skull masks called "calacus" and dance in honor of their deceased relatives.

A Different Point of View:

At first, the Spaniards viewed the ritual as sacrilegious and desperately attempted to convert the ritual to Catholicism. In their eyes, the indigenous people were barbaric and pagan. In attempt to convert to Catholicism, the Spaniards moved the ritual to coincide with All Saints Days, which is when Dia de los Muertos is celebrated today. (November 1-2) Their attempts to kill the ritual however, were unsuccessful. Like the spirits of the old Aztec, the ritual refused to die.

Death: The End of Life or a Continuation?

The Spaniards perceived death as the end of life where as the natives viewed death as the continuation of life. To them, death was something to be embraced. In fact, they believed that life was that of a dream; it was in death, that they truly became awake.

Celebrations:

Day of the Dead is a widely celebrated holiday throughout Mexico and the United States. Yearly celebrations are held in Mesa, Chandler, Guadalupe, and Arizona State University.

It is believed that on October 31st at midnight, the gates of heaven open, allowing the spirits of deceased children (Angelitos) to reunite with their families and relatives. On November 2nd, the spirits of adults will join their loved ones and enjoy the festivities.

The manor in which the deceased spirit is celebrated is entirely unique and individualistic. Believe it or not, it can actually be quite expensive for indigenous families to honor their deceased loved ones. Some will even spend more than two months income preparing for Dia de los Muertos! But they do so willingly, because they believe that the happy spirits will provide protection, good luck, and wisdom. Ofrenda building is a means in which families remain close even in death.

In Rural Mexico, people visit the cemeteries where their loved ones have been laid to rest. Upon November 1st they will adorn the gravesite with marigold flowers (cempasuchil), candles, and food. It is believed that these weary spirits need lots of food, bottles of soda, hot cocoa, and water. They will often bring tequila for adults, and toys for children.

In the United States, families will build altars throughout their home decorated with flowers, food, and pictures of the deceased. The altars are typically illuminated with many candles. It is believed that the “marigold” is the traditional flower associated with the dead. Marigolds are thought to represent the rays of the sun; informing the dead that they have not lost their place in the universe.

Sugar Skulls

Clay molded sugar figures or angels, sheep and sugar skulls go back to the colonial period 18th Century. Due to the fact that Mexico was abundant in sugar production yet too poor to buy fancy imported religious decorations, they learned how to make their own sugar art for their festivals.  Sugar skulls represent a departed soul, and the deceased's name is often inscribed on the forehead of the skull. Sugar art as a whole widely reflects folk art style, big happy smiles, colorful icing, and sparkly, glittery adornments. The art of creating these skulls is very labor intensive and are typically made in small batches.

Today the Sugar Skull is an aesthetic staple in the tattooing industry as well as the celebration of Dia de los Muertos. Much of it's meaning still resides in the simple theology of celebrating life after death. The tattoo is often a tribute to the deceased, and can be perceived as a means in which the deceased lives on. The skull itself, is often adorned with bright colors which can add a sense of vibrancy to the personified.

Where and How You can Celebrate:

Dia de los Muertos is celebrated in many parts of the United States particularly where there are large Latin American communities. Festivals and parades are typically held in celebration for those who have since passed on. Take a look at your local town calendar to see if you can join the festivities!