THE DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATION AS A PARADIGM OF ANIMISTIC THOUGHT

Abstract

From time to time the animistic thinking has undergone a certain meta­morphosis and manifested itself in different forms and variations in different cultures and belief systems. The origin of the belief in the spirit, as well as the arrangement of ceremonies, which includes the veneration of the souls of the dead, descended from this belief, has historically been associated with animistic thinking.

Most peoples of the world have performed and are currently performing various rituals and ceremonies throughout history to cherish the souls of the dead. One of the most common ceremonies reflecting this tradition is the Day of the Dead, which has been performed up to modern times.

According to the ancient beliefs, the ancestral spirits could harm living beings unless they were remembered. However, for the prevention of this danger, it was considered important to honor the souls of the dead and carry out various rituals and ceremonies dedicated to them.

The purpose of performing various rituals and traditions during the ceremony is not only to express respect for the souls of the deceased, but also to serve to pass on inherited family traditions and values to younger generations.