Do butterflies represent the dead?

Do butterflies represent the dead?

When a person suffering from the loss of a loved one has this kind of unique experience with a butterfly, they feel it is their loved one communicating with them. They interpret the appearance of the butterfly as a message that the deceased is okay and continues to live in another realm.

How poor is Oaxaca?

61.9% of Oaxaca’s population lives under the national poverty line and 23.3% lives in extreme poverty. Over half of its population is of indigenous origin, speaking as many as fifteen different ethnic languages. Over 16% of the population is illiterate, well above the national average of 7%.

What is Kopal?

Copal is a name given to tree resin, particularly the aromatic resins from the copal tree Protium copal (Burseraceae) used by the cultures of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica as ceremonially burned incense and for other purposes. The word copal is derived from the Nahuatl language word copalli, meaning “incense”.

What is Copal used for on the Day of the Dead?

Copal. Copal incense was burned in Mesoamerica in ancient times and is still burned for special ceremonies and is often placed on or near Day of the Dead altars as another olfactory element to draw in the spirits. The word copal comes from the Náhuatl word “copalli” which means, “incense”.

What is Copal good for spiritually?

Copal was used in ancient Maya and Aztec ceremonies as a ritual offering to the gods. The white smoke produced from burning copal resin was associated with helpful spirit allies. Copal purifies the energy of spaces, places and objects, chasing away negative energy and creating space for positive changes to occur.

Why do you burn frankincense and myrrh?

Since ancient times, burning of frankincense and myrrh in places of worship for spiritual purposes and contemplation (a ubiquitous practice across various religions) had hygienic functions, to refine the smell and reduce contagion by purifying the indoor air.

What was frankincense and myrrh used for in the Bible?

As per the Biblical tale, as recounted in Matthew 2:1-12, an infant Jesus of Nazareth was visited in Bethlehem on the eve of his birth by Magi bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Frankincense was often burned as an incense, while myrrh made its way into medicine and perfume.