Ofendas are an essential part of the Day of the Dead celebrations. The word ofrenda means offering in Spanish. They are also called altares or altars, but they are not for worshiping. Some people mistakenly think that Mexicans that set up altars for their defunct relatives are actually worshiping them. Nothing further from the truth. The vast majority of Mexicans are Christian Catholics, so they only worship God.
Ofrendas are set up to remember and honor the memory of their ancestors. Before setting an altar, they thoroughly clean their house. We must remember they are going to have very important "visitors".
The ofrenda is set on a table, covered with a fine tablecloth, preferably white. Then the papel picado, cut tissue paper, is set over the cloth.
Several levels can be set on the ofrendas. Generally on the top level the images of Saints and the Crucifix are set.
For each deceased relative a candle is set. Their light is thought to guide them on their way back. The light of the candles, also called ceras -waxes- symbolize Jesus Christ Reborn and faith.
Flowers, specially Cempasuchitl , adorn the ofrenda.
Flowers represent the fugacity of life.
Salt and water are also essential; they are set to quench the thirst of the souls, tired from their long trip. Water also purifies and cleanses.
Incense, Copal, is burned and thought to elevate prayers to God.
Pictures of the defunct are placed on the ofrenda, as well as some of their favorite clothing, perhaps a hat or a shawl. For the children they place small toys.
Food is specially prepared for the souls. Their preferred dishes are cooked for them and placed on the altar: mole, tamales, fruits, arroz rojo -red rice-, Hot Chocolate and dried fruit. Some times cigarettes or liquor if the dead relative enjoyed them when alive. And of course Pan de Muerto.
It is important to mention that they will not eat the food, they only enjoy the aroma.
Sometimes a cross is made with petals of thecempasuchitl flower. Also with the petals, paths are set to guide the souls to the ofrenda.
Sugar skulls and clacas -skeletons are also included.
In many towns, there are contests of ofrendas. Judges go house by house and elect the three most beautiful altars.Ofrendas are works of art, ephemeral art that is!
An offering to the returning spirits. Usually set up on a table or stand with various items set for the dead.
La Ofrenda was created in 1989.
Ofrenda was created on 1994-07-22.
purpose of candles on a ofrenda
Narnia.
offering
The word ofrenda means offering in Spanish. They are also called altares or altars, but they are not for worshiping. The word ofrenda means offering in Spanish. They are also called altares or altars, but they are not for worshiping.
The cast of La ofrenda - 1980 includes: Rosita Bouchot Porfirio Hernandez
The cast of Ofrenda - 1954 includes: Josefina Escobedo Arturo Soto Rangel Roberto Xavier
I belevie it has somthing to do with the Day of the Dead
An ofrenda typically includes pictures of deceased loved ones, their favorite foods and drinks, candles, marigold flowers, papel picado decorations, religious items, and personal belongings of the deceased. It is important to set up the ofrenda with careful thought and consideration for the preferences of the departed individuals being honored.
Ofrenda desnuda - 2006 was released on: USA: 9 March 2006 (New York International Independent Film and Video Festival in Los Angeles)
Angela Gimena Corbo has written: 'Ofrenda'