![]() ![]() Sign up for The Gleaner’s morning and evening newsletters. In it, de Sahagún describes the Aztecs’ sophisticated medicinal use of various flowers and plants, noting the important role marigolds played in both medicines and celebrations. Written by the Spanish Franciscan friar Bernardino de Sahagún, the manuscript is a 2,400-page document of the culture and customs of the Aztec people. HISTORYĪccording to, the earliest written mention of cempasúchil (the flower of 400 lives/also flower with 20 petals) dates back to the 16th century in a text known as the Florentine Codex. Apart from ushering vibrant energies into the home, it is believed that the smell of marigolds keeps insects away. In India, garlands or ‘torana’ (gateway in Sanskrit). Marigolds guide the spirits to their altars using their vibrant colours and pungent scent. It is believed that the spirits of the dead visit the living during the celebration. ![]() ![]() Día de los Muertos altar decorations usually include hand-cut paper marigolds or fresh marigolds. Marigolds are used to decorate altars and are placed with personal effects, the deceased’s favourite food and drinks, making a connection with the souls who have transitioned from their mortal state. The vibrant colours remind us of the never-say-die spirit, vibrancy, and looking beyond the sadness of death. Likewise, in Mexico, offering marigold is a celebration of the lives of those who have passed on. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |