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| < henna for the dying? |
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 Posted:
Sat Jun 30, 2012 10:03 am
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Joined: 20 Jan 2010
Posts: 27
Location: Amesbury, MA
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HI, I have an unusual question to pose to the Tribe,
My mother is terminally ill and has limited time left. I was considering doing henna on her as a gift for her but since she is elderly and on a lot of meds I don't know if it would be wise given her skin is sensitive and delicate. Does anyone know of any patterns that are done for those that are in this state of life? Or is it even done at all? And is henna ever applied to someone that is deceased? I feel strongly that it has been such a huge part of my life for a long time and I feel that my mother is proud of me for accomplishing what I have with it and I feel that I would like to share it with her but only if it would not be detrimental to her status...
I appreciate all your thoughts on this..
thank you
Maria
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Maria |
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Fri Jul 06, 2012 11:50 am
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Joined: 31 Oct 2006
Posts: 2716
Location: Granite Falls WA
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i recall reading somewhere that yes henna was used on both the dead and dying. as to what to do? that can be based on any number of things. though often one's personal symbolism is best. be it religious, or just personal preferences (like lotus flowers for it's imagery of death and rebirth each night going under water only to rise again at the dawn). some will do birds, as many cultures see birds as the guardians and guides to the passing soul to make it to the afterworld easily and safely.
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same person, new name :) aka Alysa, Satharielle, Mehndi Mojo
my flickr page |
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Fri Jul 06, 2012 8:28 pm
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Joined: 14 Oct 2004
Posts: 2732
Location: Meriden, CT
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The only thing I know about henna and death is that one of the Islamic cultures, I forget which, would henna a young woman they thought would die soon as if she were a bride, so she would be joyfully received in Paradise. I wish I knew more. As for the recipe, I'd skip the EOs and mix with plain water. It's not the designs that matter so much as the gentle touch and loving time spent.
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Lauren
Traditional henna and sparkly glitter designs
www.hennadancer.com |
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Mon Jul 09, 2012 5:00 am
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Joined: 23 Feb 2008
Posts: 413
Location: Boston
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Maria, this is a very intense and beautiful gift. I've done henna for the dying before (although not a parent) and it was by far one of the most intensely spiritual experiences of my life.
Henna was done before death, as Lauren described, among some Jewish communities in Iraqi Kurdistan. I wouldn't be surprised if it were also common in other cultures in the area. In some Muslim communities I know people are buried with henna leaves.
This can be a way to share some of your love - sending warm thoughts and a loving hug.
Noam
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Each person who asks to be hennaed holds out a hand to you. Notice. - Loretta Roome
www.hennabysienna.com |
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