Altars are a pivotal points of worship that allow energies to be focused in a specific way and they should be functional, beautiful, and charged. They may be targeted at Ancestors, Money, a specific Deity, a purpose, or there are many other reasons altars are constructed. Altars are intended to act as a catalyst for shifting thoughts from a busy life to the spiritual realm. Holding sacred space is a way to focus and change perspective, using the altar as a focal point. Today they are used particularly in the religions of Buddhism, Hinduism, Catholicism, Shinto, Tao, as well as Christianity, Thelma, Neo-Paganism, and many more religions. They are found in homes, temples, churches, and any other spot where the focus is on spirituality. Many historical faiths also made use of them for their practices.
Remember the most important thing about building an altar is why you are doing it. Faith, Respect, and Worship. If you do it with love then it will be correct.
There are USUALLY some basics to an altar, fthings that are found on every altar… but like everything I believe, you should do what feels right and what Spirit tells you in your heart.
A clean, white, cleansed surface is usually the starting point. This brings clarity, true intention, and a oneness with Spirit. A container of water is added to represent fluidity of the universe, the water element, to quench Spirit thirst, and connect to that which is in the future. Rocks or Earth are added for grounding, the element of Earth, to satisfy Spirit’s longing for what is real, and your connection to the past. Incense to represent the element of Air, the unseen aspects of life, and to feed Spirit good scent. A candle is added for the element of fire, for deep inner carnal connections of self, to open gateways through the veil with Spirit, and to connect with the now. Other trinkets to spirit can be added as you please depending on the style of Altar you are making.
