Ancestral Veneration

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In most cultures around the world, there are practices that venerate (pay homage, honor) human beings who have contributed to the betterment of their family, community, nation or in fact the world. The generic name given to such persons, all persons for that matter once they are no longer living on the Earth is ancestors (one who has lived before). They are no longer in a physical body. They do exist in a spirit form somewhere else. We will all be ancestors at some point in the future. 

What will be presented in this narrative/wisdom exchange is but one example of how to venerate one’s ancestor. If you already have a daily practice for your ancestors, please continue to do so. This presentation can be especially helpful to those who have none or inconsistent practice.

In the ancient Nile Valley (Nubia, Kemet, Ethiopia etc.) spiritual traditions, Ancestral Honoring was done on a daily basis as well as on a national basis. It was woven into the life of the people and the nation. Community in almost every Alkebulan (African) country is considered up to current times to consist of those who have passed on (ancestors), those who are on Earth and ancestors waiting to be born into the world (in the form of children). There are stories abounding globally of dreams, near death experiences, sightings etc. of ancestors appearing to people living on the Earth. They bring messages of love, protection, lifesaving knowledge and prosperity. Ancestors are always watching over us. That being said, it affirms the belief of many traditions (West Africa is an example) that “ We come again and again into earth life to learn lessons.” In today’s world many express it another way, “We are spiritual beings who have come to live a human experience.”  

Ancestors, like families, function in groups. They are on varying levels family, group and world levels. The group of ancestors that we will call on belong to those on all the  levels above. They are the guardians and protectors of the entire human family. They are known as “Shepsu” (Sacred Honorable Divine Ancestors of Light). They are the repository of wisdom and power needed to live a good life on Earth. Some are the contributors to the creation of Nile Valley and other civilizations.  At the highest levels, our ancestors want us to live a life of justice, peace, enhancing and nurturance of family, love, positive regard for each other. They desire that we oppose injustice, racism, selfishness, stealing, telling of lies, immorality and disharmony. It is believed that when we seek to live a virtuous life, ancestors who are the dispenser of God’s prosperity and correction (in cases of inappropriate behaviors), can further us in all our life endeavors. In some indigenous traditions they say, “God is too busy taking care of billions of us, so ancestors are the intermediaries sent to help us throughout life.”

On Sunday, June 9, 2024; we will call the names of people who represented the above-mentioned positive principles from ancient ancestors, to those of the Atlantic Slave passage, to the freedom fighters, healers and enlighteners of many cultures.  For as it is said in Alkebulan, “If your name is called, you will never be forgotten.”

Please add the name of your loving, giving, protecting and nurturing family members to the list. They are your direct ancestors who are always seeking to help you every day of your life. 

However, it is especially important; that we not call the name of ancestors who lived selfish, immoral, uncaring lives towards others. 

Just as they were difficult to live with while on Earth, they remain the same.

Om Shrim (Unconditional Love).  

Items For The Ancestral Altar

• White cloth on a small to mid -sized table.
• Pictures of past ancestors (yours, extended family members, national/ international Heroes and Sheroes).
• 2-4 white candles, white bowl for water, glass for pouring libation which is spring water.
• Mixed flowers. 
• Fruit; grapes, oranges or other available fruits. 
• Incense of:- frankincense, myrrh, jasmine, lotus, cedar or honeysuckle.

The essences of fruit, flowers and essential oils better support the environment for ancestors. 

Best to have no meats or alcohol on the altar.

Watch the video for further instructions on...

“How to pour the Libation Water, after the calling of each name”.

CHANT & CEREMONY 

(click on the videos below....)

OPENING

Om enen Niom....  I humble myself to the Divine Light of God.

Om enen Niom (to be repeated over and over again)

En Ankh Hatshepsut.

En Ankh Sojourner Truth.

En Ankh....  Who comes into life as (sample of names which can called.. Kufu, Malcolm, Sojourner, Nanny, Mary, etc) 

CLOSING

Hetepu en Sa....  Peace and Blessing in Wisdom.