Tag Archives: Famadihana

The Turning of the Bones in Madagascar

A look at famadihana, a joyous celebration of life and death in Madagascar
Posted on August 20, 2015 by Augusta Wise (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

In Madagascar, the Malagasy people engage in a unique and beautiful tradition called “famadihana.” This translates to “the turning of the bones,” and it is a ritual steeped in history and joy. During “famadihana,” which occurs every two to seven years, the … Continue reading →

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Famadihana: The Malagasy Perspective on Death and Burial

Death is faced head-on in Madagascar through an extended and celebratory burial tradition
Posted on June 20, 2013 by MaryFrances Knapp (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

Not long ago, SevenPonds explored a fascinating part of Madagascar’s Malagasy culture: the tradition of second burial or “Famadihana.” The tradition is rooted in the belief that the body of the deceased needs time to decompose to properly pass into … Continue reading →

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Famadihana Death Ritual in Madagascar

Madagascar's Malagasy people connect and celebrate with their ancestors long after death.
Posted on April 11, 2013 by Dana Sitar (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

The Malagasy people of Madagascar believe that the spirits of people who have died won’t join the world of their ancestors until after the body has completely decomposed. To assist the process, families perform a funerary tradition called Famadihana, “the … Continue reading →

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