San La Muerta

By Crusader1307

Often confused with the previously discussed South American Folk practice of honoring The Dead (eg ‘’Dios De Muertas’’ or ‘’Day of The Dead’’), ‘’San La Muerta’’ is translated to mean ‘’Saint Death’’ or The ‘’Lord of Death’’. And while ‘’He’’ too is portrayed in Art as a ‘’skeletal form’’ – wearing a Robe or Shroud and carrying a Scythe, San La Muerta is NOT ‘’The Grim Reaper’’ of European origins. The personification of Death, in that the act of dying is NOT a ‘’sad or tragic’’ thing, local populations (still clinging on to there Folk Beliefs), ‘’manifested’’ The image as perhaps a coping mechanism. Greatly discouraged by The Catholic Church as Pagan, a ritualistic celebration is still held in some Countries for several days each year in the Month of August. Processions to graveyards, bringing gifts and food (such as with The ‘’Day of The Dead’’ practice) – it is considered ‘’Good Luck’’ and a ‘’Long Life’’ to so honor ‘’Death’’.