Henna for happy occasions
Posted by Jewel on October 29, 1999 at 02:08:35:
In Reply to: Pathan Poetry 17th c., and foregoing henna when dumped... posted by Catherine Cartwright Jones on October 29, 1999 at 00:42:37:
In Asia, henna is mainly used to celebrate happy occasions - marriage,
a girl's coming of age, Eid, the safe return from the holy pilgrimage
in Mecca. I've read that a woman whose husband has just died is not
allowed to wear henna (or other fanciful colours for that matter).
She's supposed to look plain, dull and sombre to reflect her mourning.
This poem reflected the poet's deep sadness for the loss of her love
and she won't wear henna as if she was mourning.
From this forum, I've read of people finding solace in decorating
her/himself and others with henna in the light of a loved one's death
or sickness. Personally, I'd do anything to help ease the sadness and
despair of another, and if that includes healing mehndi, then so be
it. It is very soothing to know that something so simple can actually
give faith to others.
To those who believe in the healing power of henna, MyST, whose aunt
is ill right now, from long-distance, I'm doing mehndi for her. I wish
your family all the best !!!
Peace
~Jewel~
- Thanks Everyone MyST 18:54:51 10/29/99
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- American (western?) attitudes Anon 17:49:38 10/29/99
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