The cultural diversity of South America is deeply reflected in its funeral rites. These rituals are not only a way to honor the deceased, but also to keep ancestral traditions and beliefs alive. Below, we explore some funerary practices in different Andean countries and the Mexican Sierra Madre.
Exploring funeral rites in Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Mexico
A celebration of life (Brazil)
In Brazil, rather than being a mournful occasion, funeral rites are often celebrations of the life of the deceased. Family and friends gather to remember and honor their loved ones, sharing stories, food and music.
Ceremonial dances are a tradition, particularly of indigenous peoples. In the Xingu reserve, body paint and bird feathers are used for combats, dances and parties organized during funerary rituals.
also transport and decorate tree trunks, as a representation of the deceased, smoke grass and fish with ancestral techniques to honor the deceased with a banquet.
The burial of the ancestors (Peru)
Peruvian indigenous communities believe in the continued presence of ancestors in daily life. Therefore, funeral rites are carried out with great respect and solemnity.
In the Aymara community, relatives carefully prepare the body and place it in a tomb, accompanied by personal objects and offerings. They add eggs and coins (to pay debts), toys for the children, and food, such as cold cuts and drinks (especially if they are men).
Generally, they bury them on bridle paths or at apachetas (crossroads), so that the people who pass through them remember them; or close to home, because they consider them guardians. In this mortuary practice, the burial must be carried out without haste, since they consider that the soul can become exhausted during the journey.
A multicultural tribute (Ecuador)
Although Latin funeral rites have Catholic roots, in Ecuador they also incorporate indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorian traditions. In the community of Otavalo, the deceased is bathed in a river or other spring, where rosemary leaves, and red and white carnations are added, as a symbol of purity, eternity and new beginnings. When finished, the water must be thrown away from the place.
At the wake, soup of any grain with potatoes is prepared and financial support is given, as well as wreaths and bouquets. The Taita Maestro recites the Catholic prayers and prayers in Kichua and, later, begins the funeral games, such as chukana.
Farewell to two worlds (Mexico)
In Mexico, funeral rites also preserve ancestral traditions. Today, Nahua indigenous people carry out two burials: first, that of the body, and nine days later, that of the soul, which they also call the shadow. During the novena, a cross sign is drawn on the floor with sand, lime and flowers, which protects the soul of the deceased before passing to the other side. By that time the body was already buried.
During the nine days, collective prayers, and food offerings (tequesquite and corn husks, mainly) are made and coats, huaraches, etc. are left, to facilitate the transit of the soul. At the end of this period, the burial takes place: the cross is raised or cleaned and the soul is symbolically transferred to the cemetery.
Through the celebration of life, respect for ancestors, and tribute to the deceased, Latin funeral rites in South America continue to be a vibrant expression of spirituality and human connection. To honor the memory of your loved one, at Del Pueblo Funeral Home we have personalized ceremonies to respect your beliefs and religion. We make difficult times easier.
