Water, salt, and candles guide spirits home in Day of the Dead altars
Participants at La Granja VIP are building traditional ofrendas, with each element serving a specific purpose for the returning dead.
By Jessica Abebe ·
Members of the Los Granjeros team gathered at La Granja VIP this afternoon to assemble altars for the Day of the Dead. Mario "Mono" Osuna announced the activity, which connects the participants with loved ones who have passed away. The group is working to create the traditional displays that mark the holiday.
The altar setup relies on specific objects, with water, salt, and candles serving as the core components. Each item carries a distinct meaning within the Mexican tradition of honoring the deceased.
Water represents the source of life in this context. The National Water Commission explains that it is served in cups or containers to quench the thirst of souls after their long journey to their families' homes. The Institute of the National Population also notes that water helps the dead regain strength for their return. In some regions, the element is linked to the purity of the soul, symbolizing the welcome extended to those who come back to visit.
Salt serves as a symbol of purification. According to the National Water Commission, it is placed on the altar to prevent the body from decomposing during the trip back and forth. The Ministry of Culture also associates the substance with purity. Its presence accompanies the journey of the dead and forms a key part of how families honor their memory, though specific arrangements can vary between different households and regions.
Candles provide light, faith, and hope. Tradition holds that the flame acts as a guide, helping souls find their way to the places where they lived and are remembered. The Institute of the National Population states that when four candles are arranged to form a cross, they represent the four cardinal points. This setup helps the deceased orient themselves to find their way home.
As the Los Granjeros continue their preparations at La Granja VIP, the placement of these items reflects a deep cultural practice. The water, salt, and candles work together to receive the dead, accompany their passage, and keep their memories alive.
The activity highlights the specific roles each element plays in the ritual. While local customs may alter the exact layout of the objects, the core meanings of the water, salt, and candles remain consistent across the celebration.
