Setting up an altar of the dead is a beautiful Mexican tradition full of meaning and respect for our loved ones who are no longer with us. However, there are certain aspects that can be misinterpreted or, unintentionally, may not properly honor the memory of those we want to remember. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when setting up an altar of the dead, so you can create one that is authentic, respectful and full of love!
Not using levels on the altar
Altars usually have several levels that represent different things, depending on the region or personal taste. In general, it is recommended to make two levels, representing heaven and earth, or three, symbolizing heaven, earth and the underworld. If you decide not to use levels, you may lose this symbolic connection. Remember that these levels help guide the souls on their path, so be sure to respect this detail.
Do not include a cross or religious symbols
Although the altar of the dead has pre-Hispanic roots, over the centuries it has been mixed with Christian traditions. Many altars include a cross or images of saints, depending on the family’s religious beliefs. Although not an absolute requirement, the cross is placed to symbolize faith and offer protection to the souls on their journey. If you omit these elements, the altar may not have the same symbolism for some.
Not placing the elements of the four elements
A traditional altar includes representations of the four elements: earth, water, air and fire. Each element has its purpose and help guide and comfort souls on their journey. Earth is usually represented with seeds or flowers, water is placed in cups or jars for the souls to quench their thirst, fire is in the candles that light the way, and air is represented with papel picado. If you are missing any of these elements, you may be leaving the altar incomplete.
Forgetting the water and salt
Water is essential for the altar, as it symbolizes purification and allows the souls to refresh themselves after their journey from the other world. Salt, on the other hand, is also a symbol of purification and protection. Forgetting these elements can be considered an oversight, as both help the souls feel welcome and protected.
Placing offerings the deceased did not like
The altar of the dead is made for the deceased to feel at home and enjoy their favorite things. Avoid placing food or drinks that the deceased did not like. The idea is to offer them their favorite dishes, or what they most liked to enjoy in life. This way we honor their tastes and show them that their essence is still present among us.
Neglecting the cleanliness of the altar
Although it is common for altars to be set up days before November 1 and 2, it is important to keep it clean and in good condition until the end of the celebration. A messy or dusty altar can give the impression of neglect and disrespect. Besides, a well arranged and fresh altar is a way of expressing the affection we have for our loved ones.
Not placing the copal or incense
Copal is an aromatic resin that is burned to cleanse the environment and ward off bad energies. It is believed that its smoke also guides the souls to the altar, so forgetting it could make the path less clear for the deceased. If you do not have copal, you can use incense as a substitute, as it also serves a cleansing and guiding function.
Place photos of living people
The altar is a sacred space to remember and receive the souls of the deceased, and placing photos of living people could, according to belief, erroneously “call” their spirits or symbolize that they are not in this world.
In the case of group photos, if there are people still alive in the image, some prefer to avoid using them out of respect for tradition. However, each family is free to adapt the altar to their personal beliefs and needs. Some people choose to place only the photos of the deceased on a separate altar or to frame the photos so that only the loved one they wish to remember is shown.
Lighting candles without thinking about their meaning
Candles have a profound symbolism in the altar of the dead, as they represent the light that guides the souls to their destiny. Traditionally, as many candles are placed as many candles as the deceased are to be remembered, plus one for the forgotten soul. Each flame is a beacon of light on the way to the altar, so lighting them without thinking about this meaning may detract from their importance.
Forgetting respect and intention
Finally, the biggest mistake would be to make the altar without true intention or respect. Although the colors, elements and design are important, what is essential is the respect and love with which we make the altar. This is a time to remember and honor our loved ones, so beyond the details, it is essential that each object we place on the altar has a sincere intention.
Creating an altar of the dead is a wonderful way to keep alive the memory of those who have passed away. In the end, the important thing is the love and respect with which the altar is put together, so you can decide what best honors the memory of your loved ones and aligns with your own family beliefs. Let this Day of the Dead be a celebration of life and remembrance!
