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Checklist for Altar items?

topic posted Fri, October 28, 2005 - 4:49 AM by  *SilverUnicorn* 		Share/Save/Bookmark
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Please don't jump on me for my lack of knowledge on this.

Okay, I know I'm going to sound really stupid here, but can someone please post a basic list of things that one should put on an altar, and of things that are okay to include? Perhaps include a list of things that one *does not* want to include?

I've never made one before, even though I have thought of doing so. I have a vague idea of what should go on one, but I'd like to get it 'right', if you know what I mean. (I do not wish to accidentally offend anyone living or dead! )

My brain is really sucky, and I often can't remember things unless I have it written down, so I would like to be able to write down a list of things I want to use. I don't want to forget anything, if I can help it.

Your help in this is immensely appreciated. Thanks in advance.
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*SilverUnicorn*
offline *SilverUnicorn*
SF Bay Area
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    Re: Checklist for Altar items?

    Fri, October 28, 2005 - 11:29 AM
    I'm not sure if this is culturally specific or not, but i'll don my flame retardant kilt and take a stab at it...

    When we perform our Samhain Rite, we have an additional Rite for the Dead (Ancestors), and we include pictures and momentos of beloved dead and offerings (food, trinkets) to them. We also place images of the deities that give solace and respite to the dead while they await rebirth. Last year we made and used an assortment of sugar skulls. Obviously there are candles. Personally, the key is to provide things that link the beloved dead with us, the living and show that we honor and cherish their memories. This is admittedly from a specific neopagan tradition, so your mileage may vary.

    If you are Christian, you may want to omit the idols and place a bible on the altar open to an appropriate passage.
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  • Re: Checklist for Altar items?

    Fri, October 28, 2005 - 1:07 PM
    Presumably you're making this altar for someone you knew during their life. Thus you should know better than we do what they would like or what would offend them.
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    • *Sil...
      *SilverUnicorn*
      offline 220

      Re: Checklist for Altar items?

      Sat, October 29, 2005 - 1:25 PM
      Okay, so,

      Pictures
      Trinkets
      Food
      Skulls
      Candles
      Bible-open

      pretty much covers it, then?

      It's mainly for my mom, who I lost this last Feb., but I would like to cover a number of people and (pets) lost in the last couple of years. Oh, and one friend & his son, whose murders are still unsolved. (Feb. will be 9 years. )
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      • Pablito
        Pablito
        offline 29

        Re: Checklist for Altar items?

        Sun, October 30, 2005 - 5:30 PM
        Every tradition is different. And it is the intent placed in the item that gives it it's meaning.
        that said, i would add a glass of water, to compliment the fire element and to present as an offering.
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