If you’re not a member of an Indigenous community, purchasing white sage, Palo Santo, or other sacred herbs and quickly Googling “how to smudge” will not make you qualified to do so. This is cultural appropriation, and it’s harmful to Native communities.
Is it disrespectful to burn sage?
Because of all that complicated history of sage burning, when non-Native people use white sage to “smudge” their homes or other spaces, it infringes upon the cultural importance and authenticity of the ritual and prayer — simply, it’s cultural appropriation.
Is it OK for non indigenous people to smudge?
Smudging and Sacred Medicines
We personally love to share these benefits with those who seek to listen carefully and learn consciously. As long as you’re respectful, we firmly believe that smudging and use of other sacred medicines is perfectly acceptable for those who do not come from Indigenous culture.
How do you smudge respectfully?
How to smudge your living space, an object, and more
- Light the end of a sage bundle with a match.
- The tips of the leaves should smolder slowly, releasing thick smoke.
- Allow the incense to linger on the areas of your body or surroundings you’d like to focus on.
- Allow the ash to collect in a ceramic bowl or shell.
What is the origin of burning sage?
Native Americans and other indigenous peoples have burned sage for centuries as part of a spiritual ritual to cleanse a person or space, and to promote healing and wisdom. It’s been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans to treat digestive issues, memory problems, and sore throats.
Where did sage smudging originate?
Smudging, though, is most associated with northern Native American traditions. Sage is not the only herb used in smudging ceremonies; cedar, tobacco, yarrow and sweetgrass are used as well. The practice is often done to mark the beginning of ceremonies.
What cultures use white sage?
That’s because white sage, scientific name salvia apiana, is native to the Southwest of America and northwest of Mexico. It is a sacred plant to tribes such as the Lakota, Comanche, Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Navajo.
What is the difference between Palo Santo and sage?
Palo Santo means “holy wood” best known for its ability to add positivity to your space whereas sage removes negativity. It’s best to think of it as sage CLEARS it out the bad and palo santo BRINGS back the good.
Is smudging religious?
Smudging serves a variety of functions in different Indigenous cultures. As a ritual event, it is considered significant to spiritual and theological beliefs, as are sweat lodges and sacred pipes in certain cultures. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.)
What religions use smudging?
Smudging with Sage
Incense is still used today in the Roman Catholic Church and other religions for purification. Native elders teach that the smoke of dried sage clears negative energy and restores harmony.
What does smudging do to a person?
Purpose of smudging
The smoke created by burning medicines purifies the body, soul and brings clarity to the mind. In this way, smudging is also used to rid any negative energy a person may carry throughout the day. Sacred items and locations can be smudged to clear away negativity.
What does sage symbolize?
In Celtic lore, sage represented wisdom and immortality. Sage became a popular symbol of wisdom, believed to improve memory and grant wisdom. The very word sage means a wise man. There was also a superstition that sage thrived when all was going well, but would start to wilt when things were going badly.
What can I burn instead of white sage?
Alternatives to White Sage for Smudging
- Black sage.
- Garden sage.
- Wormwood (this is my go-to, since it’s so abundant where I live)
- Cedar.
- Pine.
- Holy basil.
- Mints.
- Rosemary.
Why is white sage sacred?
White sage is burned for meditation, smudging and cleansing of spirit and dwelling. In some beliefs, white sage smoke is believed to provide a barrier that prevents negative spirits from entering the room in which the ceremony is being held.
What sage is best for cleansing a house?
White sage
White sage is probably the most common and popular herb for smudging. It is associated with purity and has a strong and heavy presence. It’s definitely useful for when you need a major space cleansing.
What kind of sage do you burn to cleanse your home?
White sage
White sage is the most common variety you’ll find in a smudge stick, since the color is associated with purity. However, other dried plants such as juniper, rosemary, and cedar can also be used to clear energy if sage isn’t your thing.
What type of sage is best for cleansing?
Also known as Sacred Sage, Bee Sage or California Sage, White Sage smudges are the most widely used smudging sticks. Many people regard this as the ‘Holy Grail’ of smudging and won’t consider any other herb stick. White Sage smudges give out a sweet, herbaceous and slightly astringent aroma when burned.
What do you say when you sage your house?
Hello, my name is ___; I am moving into this space. I want to thank all of the land stewards and spirits of the land. I want to acknowledge the first people of the land. I want to state my intention of creating a home for myself here, living in reciprocity with the spirits that are present.
When should I sage my house?
The best time to sage is whenever you want
Moving into a new home or office space is a perfect time to burn sage in order to clear the previous owner’s energy and set your own intention for the space.
How often should you smudge a house?
“You can light one leaf, because a smudge stick will smoke a lot.” Both experts recommend burning sage regularly, even after you’ve finished moving, to purify the air and keep balance. “I recommend cleansing the space by smudging any time you do a seasonal cleaning, three times a year at a minimum,” said Meder.
Can Christians burn incense?
A Christian may still burn incense if he wishes to, but should consider 1 Samuel 15:22, “Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD?” This shows that obedience to God should be our priority as Christians. The Bible contains 24 verses referring to incense.
Justin Shelton is a professional cook. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years, and he loves nothing more than creating delicious dishes for others to enjoy. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. When he’s not cooking, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He loves exploring new restaurants and trying out different cuisines.