Ancestral Aromatics: 6 Reasons to Offer Incense to your Muertos

Offering aromatic smoke to our beloved ancestors is common practice in many cultures and is often associated with religious + spiritual rituals. The reasons behind this practice vary, but some common intentions include:

1. Spiritual Connection: Aromatic smoke, often produced by burning incense or herbs, is believed to create a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm. It's thought to attract and appease the spirits of ancestors, facilitating communication or honoring their memory.

2. Purification: Smoke is considered purifying in many cultures. By offering aromatic smoke, it's believed that any negative energies or impurities are cleansed, ensuring the ancestors' peaceful transition and maintaining harmony in the family or community.

3. Respect and Remembrance: Burning aromatic substances is a symbolic act of showing respect and remembrance for the deceased. It's a way to honor their legacy and the influence they've had on the living.

4. Symbolism: The choice of specific herbs or incense can have symbolic meanings. For example, certain herbs might be associated with healing, protection, or other virtues, and their use in ancestral rituals can carry those symbolic intentions.

5. Cultural Tradition: Aromatic smoke offerings are often deeply ingrained in cultural and religious traditions, passed down through generations. They serve as a way to connect with one's cultural heritage and maintain a sense of continuity.

6. Aesthetic and Sensory Experience: The pleasant aroma and visual spectacle of burning incense or herbs can enhance the sensory experience of a ritual, making it more engaging and memorable.

It's essential to note that the specific beliefs and practices surrounding ancestral offerings can vary widely from one culture or religion to another, so the exact reasons may differ based on individual traditions and belief systems.