Occult Magick for Día de los Muertos: Tradition and Practice
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrated at the beginning of November. It honors deceased loved ones and ancestors, offering a chance for the living to reconnect with the departed. Rooted deeply in indigenous Mesoamerican beliefs, combined with Catholic elements, this celebration is rich with symbolism, rituals, and practices.
It’s important to approach this topic with sensitivity and respect, understanding that traditions and beliefs surrounding the Day of the Dead are deeply meaningful to many. When blending in occult practices, it’s crucial to maintain reverence for the core values of the holiday.
Here’s a guide to incorporating occult magick into Día de los Muertos observances:
1. Understanding the Significance of Día de los Muertos:
Before attempting to weave in any occult practices, it’s essential to understand the spiritual depth of the holiday. The Day of the Dead is a time for families to come together, remember their loved ones, and celebrate their lives. It’s not about invoking spirits for personal gain or curiosity but about honoring, remembering, and celebrating.
2. Altar (Ofrenda) Creation:
Central to the celebration is the creation of altars dedicated to the departed. These altars can be adorned with:
- Marigolds: These vibrant flowers, known as cempasúchil, are believed to attract souls to the offerings.
- Candles: Representing the light that guides the spirits back to the living world.
- Personal Items: Belongings of the deceased or items that remind the living of their loved ones.
- Incense: Especially copal, which purifies the space and attracts spirits.
For those inclined towards magick, these items can be charged with intention. For instance, you could use color magick with candles or inscribe symbols or sigils that have personal or universal significance.
3. Ritual and Meditation:
Engage in a quiet ritual or meditation. This could involve sitting quietly in front of the altar, focusing on the loved ones you wish to honor. Visualize their energy and essence, sending them love, gratitude, and warmth. You can also incorporate traditional magick tools such as a pendulum or tarot cards to receive messages or guidance from the other side.
4. Protection:
In any magickal work, especially when dealing with spirits, protection is crucial. Before starting your ritual, surround yourself with a circle of salt or use protective stones like black tourmaline. Calling upon protective deities or using protective chants can also fortify your space.
5. Respectful Invocation:
If you choose to invoke the spirits of the departed, do so with utmost respect. Instead of commanding, invite them with love and warmth. Use chants or prayers that resonate with you and the spirits you’re calling upon.
6. Feast and Celebrate:
Día de los Muertos is as much about celebration as it is about mourning. Prepare traditional foods, play music, and enjoy the company of loved ones. The living and the dead come together in a harmonious celebration of life.
7. Gratitude and Farewell:
Once your observances are complete, thank the spirits for their presence. It’s essential to formally close any portals or connections you’ve opened. This can be done through a closing ritual, grounding exercises, or simply expressing gratitude and asking the spirits to depart in peace.
In Conclusion:
Merging occult magick with Día de los Muertos requires deep respect for the traditions and beliefs inherent in the celebration. It’s essential to approach this blending with a genuine desire to honor and connect with the departed, rather than for mere novelty. When done with reverence and sincerity, combining these practices can lead to profound spiritual experiences.
