ABSTRACT
Most cultures around the world practice various forms of ritual associated with death, grief, and loss. Many aspects of these rituals have been carried forward from the past to the present day. Death and grief rituals have been part of our human journey for centuries — from the anointing of the body in Egypt to the ancient Aztec practices of burying grinding stones, corn, and chocolate along with the deceased. Preparing burial sites with food, precious stones, and metals, along with elaborate works of fine art was also part of the burial rituals of many ancient civilizations. These cultures wanted to ensure their deceased and revered loved ones were honored, well fed, and would have riches with which to enter the next phase of their journey following death. Entire towns, villages, and regions would enter into both public and personal rituals, which would serve to acknowledge death and enable a transition to take place within the community.
