Altar

The Ofrenda
Courtney

What is the Ofrenda?
The Ofrenda is an altar that displays artifacts for deceased souls during El Dia De Los Muertos. Natives decorate the altars to honor all those who have passed away,whether its family or friends. The word //Ofrenda// means offering in Spanish. The altars can be so extravagant, that people consider them to be a masterpiece, or a work of art.

How do natives set up the Altar?
Natives take the Altar and the Ofrenda very seriously, they always clean there house spotless before they begin assembling the Altar. They believe that their house should be immaculate, because of the "special guests" that will be later arriving. In this case, "special guests" meaning spirits. The Altar is simply a table with an elegent table cloth placed on top. After the tissue paper is set down, tissue paper is then placed ontop of the table cloth. After the base is set, they will add things like sugar skulls and skeletons.

What items are usually placed on the Altar?
Photos are placed on the altar of the family members who have most recently passed away. The deceased person being honored's favorite foods are also placed on the altar, in order to feed and nourish their souls during its journey. Flowers are usually placed on the altar, as a symbol of the shortness of life and its precious character. The golden flower of dead, Zempasuchil, which is a very large marigold is the most common flower found on the altar. Incesne are also placed on the altar. It is said that the incesne will help guide the spirit back into the world. Sometimes, even razors, soap, and wash tubs are placed along the altar in order to keep the spirit clean and healthy during its journey.Throughout all of these items, the four elements of life are represented; fire, water, earth, and wind.

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Traditional Altar:
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Contemporary Altar:
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Skeleton Decorations:
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