There is no doubt that one of humanity’s biggest questions is: What does death mean? Although this natural process of life has a scientific explanation, different cultures around the world have a different interpretation of it.

Although death, broadly speaking, represents the absence of life, as humanity we have conceived of death as the beginning of another form of life.

What does death mean?

Death is a topic that has been addressed in different ways in various cultures around the world. Although beliefs and funeral rituals may vary significantly, there is a common thread running through many of these traditions: the idea that death is not the absolute end, but rather a transition to another state or a continuation of existence in some form.

How is death viewed in different cultures?

It is no secret that death, despite being a taboo topic that we would prefer not to talk about, is an inevitable facet of life with great symbolism and powerful meanings around the world.

Egypt

In ancient Egyptian culture, there was a belief in life after death and mummification was practiced to preserve the body. The Egyptians believed in the existence of a soul or «ka» that continued its journey in the afterlife; Therefore, to ensure eternal life, rituals were performed and objects, food and everything that the deceased might need were placed in their grave for their new life in the afterlife.

Scandinavia

In contrast, in Viking culture, they believed in Valhalla, which is a resting place for warriors fallen in battle. The Vikings viewed death in battle as an honor and a gateway to an eternal life of fighting and camaraderie. As in other cultures, Viking warriors were buried with personal items and weapons to help them on their journey to Valhalla.

Mexico

In many indigenous cultures of America, such as the Aztecs and the Mayans, it is believed that the deceased continue to exist in some non-earthly place, but despite this, they maintain a close connection with the world of the living and the people who remember them. The celebration of the Day of the Dead in Mexico focuses on honoring and celebrating the lives of our deceased ancestors and loved ones, and with the help of an altar, we invite them to return to the world of the living on November 1 and 2.