Turning the Bones

"Turning the Bones" refers to a traditional funerary practice in Madagascar, particularly among the Malagasy people. This ritual involves exhuming the remains of deceased relatives, cleaning the bones, and rewrapping them in new shrouds. The practice reflects a deep respect for ancestors and is an essential part of the Malagasy cultural identity.

During the reburial ceremony, families celebrate their ancestors with music, dance, and feasting, believing that the deceased maintain a connection to the living. This ritual underscores the importance of family and memory in Malagasy culture. 

1. Ancestral Worship: Ancestors play a crucial role in Malagasy spirituality. Many believe that ancestors influence the living, leading to practices like "Turning the Bones" to honor and maintain a connection with them.

2. Famadihana: This is the aforementioned ritual where families exhume and rewrap their deceased loved ones. It is celebrated with music, dancing, and feasting.

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