Introduction to Posadas in Mexico and Central America
In Mexico, the Posadas begin on December 16 and conclude on the 24th. These celebrations are also observed in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama. Each of the nine days leading up to Christmas holds a unique significance: humility, strength, detachment, charity, trust, justice, purity, joy, and generosity.
The purpose of Posadas is to commemorate the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of lodging to await the birth of baby Jesus.
Origins and Evolution of Posadas
Posadas originated from the fusion of pre-Hispanic and Christian elements, adapting Mexica festivities that took place during the same period in honor of “Huitzilopochtli’s” birth. Initially performed only in temples, this tradition evolved and became popular among the population, transcending ecclesiastical boundaries. Religious music gradually gave way to villancicos and popular songs, shaping today’s celebrations.
Before the advent of aguinaldos, small bags containing sweets and fruits that are still exchanged during Posadas, asking for posada was different. In late 19th and early 20th century Mexico, children would go caroling not for treats but for money. People would give copper or silver coins as a gesture of goodwill.
This tradition persists in Veracruz, known as “La Rama,” where a decorated tree branch with lanterns and orbs is carried from house to house, accompanied by caroling for the aguinaldo.
The Posada Celebration
During a Posada, family and friends gather in two groups. One group remains outside, singing and representing pilgrims with figures of Joseph, Mary, an angel, and a donkey. The other group inside sings to deny entry. Upon revealing the true identities of visitors, doors open joyfully with:
“Enter, holy pilgrims!”
All participants carry lit candles.
The Piñata Tradition
Piñatas, deeply rooted in Mexican culture, originated from China. Marco Polo brought them to Italy, and they eventually reached New Spain. The piñata incorporated into Posadas is a result of rich cultural syncretism.
Indigenous peoples used clay or ceramic containers filled with seeds or small objects, symbolizing fertility and abundance for their gods and important events. In Posadas, the piñata takes on a vibrant, ornate shape representing the seven capital sins. It is filled with sweets and fruit, symbolizing divine gifts for attaining salvation.
During each Posada, participants, blindfolded, take turns striking the piñata with sticks. The person who breaks it represents a believer overcoming temptation and regaining the supernatural grace necessary for salvation.
Social Cohesion through Posadas
These end-of-year celebrations foster cordial and pleasant encounters, protecting and restoring social fabric.
Nobel Peace Prize Discourse and its Relevance
The discourse delivered during the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo, describing events in Venezuela, seems to mirror the actions of “la cuarta transformación” (the fourth transformation) in Mexico.
This discourse highlights the dismantling of democracy, constitutional violations, historical manipulation, corruption of armed forces, purging of independent judges, censorship of the press, election manipulation, persecution of dissent, and devastation of biodiversity.
The Mexican leader chose not to comment on this warning.
Reflection
These critical moments should prompt us to reflect.
About the Author
* The author is a lawyer, negotiator, and mediator.
X @Phmergoldd
