For many Black folk around the world, ancestral altars hold great significance in honoring and connecting with their ancestors. These altars serve as a sacred space where one can pay homage to those who came before them, seek guidance and protection, and keep their memories alive.
People often ask me how can they connect with their ancestors, and are generally curious as to how to build an altar for them. In this article, we will explore the importance of ancestral altars and why they hold a special place in the hearts of Black people.
For starters, it is important to understand the significance of our ancestors in Black cultures. In many African based traditions and religions, ancestors are seen as important spiritual beings who are still present and active in the lives of their living descendants. The ancestors are believed to have the power to guide, protect, and bless us if they are honored and remembered through ritual and offerings. For this reason, ancestral altars are featured in many Black households.
An ancestral altar is an important tool to have as you go on your spiritual journey. In my personal opinion, it is the single most important tool. By regularly tending to the altar and offering prayers and offerings, individuals can deepen their spiritual practice and cultivate a deeper connection to the divine. This can lead to a greater sense of inner peace, clarity, and purpose in life.
It is simply a physical space that is set aside to honor and connect with your peoples. Think of it as a powerful message center. It can be a simple or elaborate setup, depending on your personal preferences and resources. Some people choose to display photographs of their loved ones who have transitioned, while others incorporate items such as candles, flowers, incense, and offerings such as food or drinks. The altar can be located in any area of your home, but it is often placed in a prominent location, such as a living room or bedroom. Although some people believe your altar should not be in the bedroom, but ints YOUR altar; do as you feel.
In addition to providing a space for ancestral veneration, an ancestral altar can also serve as a source of healing and connection. For many people who have been disconnected from their ancestral roots, creating an altar can be a way to reconnect with their cultural heritage and traditions. It can provide a sense of belonging and connection to something greater than yourself, and it can serve as a reminder of the resilience and strength of your ancestors in the face of adversity.
To set up your altar, here are the basic steps. From here you can take it in any direction you are compelled to go
Choose a location
Decide on a location in your home that will be designated as your ancestral altar. It should be a place that is quiet, private, and easily accessible to you.
Choose a surface
You can use a small table, shelf, or any flat surface as the base of your altar. Consider the size of the surface you choose and make sure it is appropriate for your needs.
Choose a cloth
Select a cloth or fabric that will be used to cover the surface of your altar. Choose a color that resonates with you and that you believe will help create a sacred space.
Decorate with the essentials
Start with the elements of nature: Earth, Water. Fire, Air. Decorative items such as flowers, a fresh glass of water, candles, incense…. Then add other items that hold significance to you &/or your ancestors. You may also want to include pictures or objects that remind you of your ancestors. Even better, if you have items that once belonged to some of them.
Offerings
Add offerings such as food, water, flowers, or other items that your ancestors would have appreciated. This is a way to show gratitude and honor your ancestors.
Cleanse and bless
Before you use your altar, it is important to cleanse and bless the space. You can do this with sage, palo santo, or any other cleansing tool that resonates with you.
Regular maintenance
Tend to your altar regularly. Light candles, replace offerings, and keep the space clean and tidy. This is a way to show respect and honor to your ancestors.
Remember that creating an ancestral altar is a PERSONAL and INDIVIDUAL practice. There is no one right way to do it, and you should customize it to fit your beliefs and preferences. The most important thing is to create a space that feels sacred and meaningful to you.
