In Madagascar, deceased ancestors still hold an important place for the majority of the population.
The Malagasy people have been attached to polytheism and superstition since the dawn of time. They believe in a Creator God, but they also believe in obscure divinities and have a penchant for witchcraft and amulets. To this day, deceased ancestors still hold an important place among the majority of the Malagasy population.
The place of ancestors among the living in Madagascar
In Madagascar, all ethnic groups have always invoked the « Perfumed God » or « Creator God », commonly known as « Adriamanitra Andriananahary ». At the same time, they worship many other things, including their deceased ancestors or « razana ».
Among the Malagasy, of all ethnic groups, the deceased ancestors have powers slightly inferior to those of the supreme God. They serve as intercessors between the Creator and mankind. They bless the living, protect them from curses and guide them in everyday life. Disregarding the ancestors’ influence on life on earth can lead to illness, misfortune and even plagues. That’s why Malagasy people devote themselves to ancestor worship, practicing a thousand and one rites to implore the blessing and protection of deceased ancestors.
Traditional rites adopted in ancestor worship
In Malagasy homes, the « zoro firarazana », or inner corner of the wall facing north-east, is dedicated to the deceased ancestors. To honor the « razana », it’s customary to pour a sip of alcoholic beverage into it before any festive event.
Illness, misfortune or bad luck can result from breaking an ancestral prohibition. It is very important to ask the « razana » for forgiveness. Making offerings of honey, rum or live chicken to deceased ancestors can restore health or put life back in order. Sometimes, it is necessary to immolate a red rooster (akoholahy mena) or a zebu near the ancestral tomb.
Even if the 18 ethnic groups present in Madagascar practice cosmopolitan, if not different, rites, exhumation(turning over the dead) is the traditional ceremony they share in common. This ancestral ritual involves wrapping the dead in new shrouds. It is celebrated in the family and the community.
To conclude
According to Malagasy beliefs, the more one cares for deceased ancestors, the more they bless their descendants with health, happiness and wealth. For this reason, it makes perfect sense to practice ancestor worship in Madagascar.
Main photo credit: Wikimedia – Bernard Gagnon