How Many Levels Do Altars Need for the Day of the Dead?
The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a vibrant and deeply meaningful holiday celebrated primarily in Mexico and parts of Latin America. A central element of this celebration is the creation of elaborate altars, or ofrendas, dedicated to deceased loved ones. While the visual aspects of these altars are captivating, they are also rich with symbolism and tradition. A frequent question arises about the structure of these altars: How many levels should they have? The short answer is that altars for the Day of the Dead commonly feature either three or seven levels, though other variations exist. The number of levels isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it carries significant cultural and spiritual meaning.
The Significance of Three-Level Altars
The most common configuration for an ofrenda is the three-level altar. This design symbolizes the three realms of existence:
- Heaven (or the celestial realm): The top level represents the abode of the gods, saints, and other heavenly figures. It’s a space to honor the spiritual nature of the departed and to connect them with the divine.
- Earth (or the earthly realm): The middle level symbolizes the physical world where we live, the realm of the living. This level serves as a bridge between the living and the dead, a place where offerings are placed.
- The Underworld (or purgatory): The base level represents Mictlán, the underworld in Aztec cosmology, or purgatory in Catholic tradition. This level acknowledges the transition and journey of the soul.
These three levels create a holistic view of existence and provide a structured way for families to honor their loved ones. This setup allows for a clear separation of the different worlds and provides a way to include diverse offerings, such as images of saints, favorite foods of the deceased, and personal belongings. This structure highlights the cycle of life, death, and rebirth within the celebration.
The Meaning Behind Seven-Level Altars
While the three-level ofrenda is common, the seven-level altar is often considered the most traditional and carries a deeper spiritual significance. It represents the seven steps a soul must traverse to reach heaven (or sometimes hell). It also relates to the Seven Deadly Sins. Each level is meant to offer a symbolic step on this spiritual journey.
The symbolic significance of each of the seven levels can vary depending on the region and family tradition. A general interpretation often includes:
- Image of a Saint: The top level often displays an image of a patron saint or a religious figure to honor the spiritual aspect of the deceased.
- Souls in Purgatory: This level is dedicated to the souls in purgatory, and many place a glass of water to help the soul’s spiritual purification.
- Purification: Salt is often placed on this level to purify the soul and to prevent corruption during its journey.
- Offerings of Food: Bread, particularly pan de muerto, is often offered on this level as a gift of sustenance for the spirits.
- Favorite Foods: The deceased loved one’s favorite dishes, drinks, and treats are placed here to entice their spirit to visit.
- Personal Items: Personal belongings, such as favorite clothing items, toys, or tools, are added to the altar.
- Candles and Refreshments: The final level can be used for lit candles to light the way for the souls, or even a washbasin and towel, so the spirits may refresh themselves.
The seven-level altar is a more elaborate version that reflects the complex journey of the soul according to traditional beliefs. It emphasizes the spiritual preparation needed for a smooth transition from death to rest.
Variations and Other Considerations
While three and seven levels are the most common, the actual number of levels is not a strict rule. Some ofrendas may have two levels, representing earth and heaven. Others might be created on a single, flat surface, without distinct levels. The most important thing is to create a space of love and remembrance, personalizing the altar to the specific needs of honoring the deceased.
Furthermore, the construction of the altar varies greatly by region. In some areas, a flat surface is common, while others use elaborate, tiered structures. Regardless of the structure, the key elements remain the same: photos of the deceased, marigolds, favorite foods, candles, incense, and personal items. The materials used, whether boxes or other structures covered with white or black cloths, add to the individual expression of love and remembrance.
Ultimately, the number of levels is a matter of preference, tradition, and the family’s resources. It is not a rigid requirement but rather a reflection of the profound cultural and spiritual significance of the Day of the Dead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do the three levels of an altar represent?
The three levels of an ofrenda typically represent Heaven, Earth, and the Underworld. These levels symbolize the different realms of existence and provide a structure for honoring the deceased.
2. What do the seven levels of an altar represent?
The seven levels of an altar often represent the seven steps that a soul must take to reach heaven. They also sometimes relate to the Seven Deadly Sins, reflecting a broader spiritual journey.
3. Do all Day of the Dead altars have levels?
No, not all Day of the Dead altars have levels. Some are created on a flat surface. The number of levels isn’t a strict rule, but rather a matter of tradition and preference.
4. What are the four elements included on an altar?
Day of the Dead altars commonly include the four elements: Earth, Wind, Water, and Fire. These elements are incorporated to honor life and nature.
5. Why is salt placed on an altar?
Salt is placed on an altar as a symbol of purification of the spirit, ensuring it is not corrupted during its journey to the altar. It’s often specifically for the souls in purgatory.
6. Why is water placed on an altar?
Water is placed on an altar to quench the thirst of the spirits after their long journey. It also symbolizes the purity of the souls and the cycle of life and death.
7. What should be on each level of a three-level altar?
- Top level: Images of saints or other religious symbols and photos of the deceased.
- Middle level: Favorite foods, drinks, and other items enjoyed by the deceased.
- Base level: Often salt and representations of the underworld.
8. What is “pan de muerto”?
Pan de Muerto is a traditional sweet bread baked specifically for the Day of the Dead. It is a popular offering for the spirits and is often decorated with bone-like designs.
9. What is the meaning of marigolds on an altar?
Marigolds, often called “flowers of the dead”, are used for their vibrant color and strong fragrance, which is said to attract the souls of the deceased.
10. What else should be on a day of the dead altar?
Altars should also include candles, incense (copal), personal belongings of the deceased, and items that represent their hobbies or work, making each one a personal and loving tribute.
11. What are sugar skulls and what do they mean?
Sugar skulls are decorative sugar figures, often with the name of the deceased on their forehead, symbolizing the departed soul. They’re also a popular item on the altars.
12. Why do people create altars for the Day of the Dead?
Altars are built to honor and remember the lives of deceased loved ones. They serve as a space for the spirits to return and be celebrated.
13. Is it okay to create an ofrenda for a pet?
Yes, it is absolutely appropriate to create an ofrenda for a pet. Pets are part of the family, and honoring them with an altar is a loving way to remember their lives.
14. How do you start building a Day of the Dead altar?
You can begin by setting up a table or tiered structure and deciding if you want a 3 or 7 level structure. Then, you can add all the elements, including images, candles, and food.
15. Where are these altars commonly found?
Day of the Dead altars are commonly found in homes, cemeteries, and public spaces across Mexico and other Latin American countries. The altars are a central element of this important cultural holiday.