How to Build an Ancestor Altar for Honoring Ancestors

9/11/2023

© Lyn Lomasi; Owner|Ordained Shaman at Intent-sive Nature & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC

In a world that often feels disconnected from its roots, there's a powerful and magical way to bridge the gap between your past and your future – by creating an Ancestor Altar. This DIY guide will walk you through the process, revealing the spiritual significance, cultural meanings, and practical steps needed to build your very own ancestor altar. Get ready to tap into the wisdom of your forebears and manifest an abundant life like never before.

The Secrets of Ancestor Altars Await You

Now that you've decided to build your ancestor altar, you're about to unlock the hidden treasures of your ancestral lineage. The power of this sacred space lies in its ability to transcend time and space, connecting you with the spirits of your lineage who hold the keys to your destiny. As you engage in this enchanting practice, keep in mind that you are not alone on this path; your ancestors are eager to guide you, protect you, and share their profound wisdom with you.

With your altar in place, you stand to undergo a profound transformation, where the past meets the present, and together, they shape an abundant future. Harness the magic of the ancestral realm, and watch as you gain a new understanding and appreciation for your ancestors. Meanwhile, the universe conspires to manifest an abundant life beyond your wildest dreams. The adventure has just begun, and the secrets of ancestor altars await you with open arms.

Understanding the Ancestor Altar

Before we dive into the how-to, let's uncover the 'what' and 'why' of ancestor altars. These sacred spaces, revered in various cultures worldwide, serve as a bridge between the living and the ancestral realm. An ancestor altar is a place where you pay homage to your ancestors, seeking their guidance, protection, and wisdom.

Gathering Your Essentials

To begin your journey, gather the following items:

Altar Space: Choose a serene, dedicated area in your home, a space where you can create a connection with your ancestors.
Altar Cloth: A beautiful, meaningful fabric can serve as the foundation for your altar.
Pictures of Ancestors: Gather images of your ancestors to honor their memory.
Symbolic Artwork: Select artwork that resonates with you, representing the spiritual messengers who will aid in your journey.
Offerings: Prepare offerings such as water in a stemless wine glass, flowers, or their favorite foods.
Candles, Sage, & Incense: Burn one or more of these to cleanse the space while saying the Ancestor Prayer and also during the entire altar ritual. Some keep candles lit at their altar at all times.
Blessed Altar Oil: Blessing yourself with a quality effective altar oil prior to cleansing the altar space ensures all negative energies have been removed.

Setting up the Ancestor Altar

Place your altar cloth on your chosen space and arrange the pictures of your ancestors and the symbolic artwork thoughtfully. Position the stemless wine glass filled with water at the center. Light a candle and incense, symbolizing the illumination of your connection with the spirit world.

Keep Your Ancestor Altar Clean, Uncluttered, Simple, Specific, and Symbolic

Maintaining the purity and potency of your ancestor altar is essential. Keep the space clean and uncluttered to ensure clear communication with your ancestors. Simplicity is key; remove unnecessary items that may distract from the spiritual connection. Be specific with your offerings, choosing items that held significance to your ancestors in life. Every element on your altar should hold a symbolic purpose, amplifying the energy and intention you wish to convey. By adhering to these principles, you create a sacred space where the magic of your ancestral connection can thrive.

Simple Ancestor Prayer

If you are unsure what to say, this simple ancestral prayer will help cleanse and bless the space, as well as connect you with only ancestors who have your best interests in mind:

"To my benevolent ancestors, known and unknown, with my best interests at heart, I honor you. I seek your guidance, wisdom, and protection on this journey of life. Thank you for watching over me and guiding me. May your love and blessings continue to flow through me and manifest an abundant life. Asé"

(Pronunciation of Asé is ah-shay. It is used like Amen, but comes with acceptance of power, blessings, and being giving/receiving of honor.)

Making Offerings

Offerings are a vital part of an ancestor altar. Pour water into the stemless wine glass, dedicating it to your ancestors. As the water represents life, it signifies the spiritual nourishment you offer to them. Place your chosen offerings before the pictures of your ancestors.

Communicating with Your Ancestors

Now, close your eyes and meditate. In the stillness, speak to your ancestors from your heart. Share your dreams, aspirations, and the challenges you face. Seek their guidance, knowing that they are here to help you manifest an abundant life.

The Spiritual Significance

Ancestor altars hold profound spiritual meaning. They represent the unbroken chain of wisdom from ancestors who have passed down their knowledge through generations. By honoring them, you tap into this reservoir of wisdom and connect with the energies that guide you toward your destiny.

Cultural Meanings of Ancestor Altars

The cultural significance of ancestor altars varies widely, from the African Orisha traditions to the Haitian L'wa practices and beyond. These altars are a testament to the rich tapestry of human history and belief systems, showing how diverse cultures have honored and sought guidance from their ancestors for centuries.

Caution: Avoid Sharing Pictures of Your Ancestor Altar Online

While sharing spiritual experiences can be tempting in the age of social media, it's crucial to exercise caution when it comes to your ancestor altar. Refrain from posting pictures of your sacred space online. The reason is twofold: first, it's a matter of respect for the intimate and deeply personal nature of your connection with your ancestors.

Secondly, sharing pictures of your altar can inadvertently expose it to negative energies or unwanted attention. In the realm of spirituality, discretion is a shield against unintended consequences. Instead, cherish the sacred bond you've forged with your ancestors privately and safeguard the sanctity of your ancestor altar from the digital world. (Any altars I’ve shared have been created solely for educational purposes and hold no connection to my ancestors).

Teach Your Children the Way

Creating an ancestor altar is not just for your benefit; it's a legacy you can pass down to your children. By involving them in the process, you empower them to connect with their roots and take control of their destinies. Instill in them the belief that they, too, can manifest an abundant life by honoring their ancestors.

Manifest an Abundant Life

As you continue to nurture your ancestor altar and strengthen your connection with them, you'll find that the guidance and wisdom you receive will lead you toward a life of abundance. Your ancestors are your spiritual allies, working tirelessly to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Conclusion: Your Destiny Awaits

In the mystical realm of ancestor altars, you have the power to unlock your true potential, guided by the wisdom and love of those who came before you. As you build and maintain your ancestor altar, you not only honor your roots but also pave the way for an abundant future. So, take action today, and may your journey be filled with blessings, magic, and the realization of your most cherished dreams. Remember, the key to your destiny lies within the ancestral realm.