PALASPAS: PALM SUNDAY

Introduction

Palaspas refers to the decorative, intricately woven palm fronds used by Filipino Catholics to celebrate Palm Sunday (Linggo ng Palaspas), which marks the beginning of Holy Week. These palm leaves commemorate Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where the crowds welcomed him by waving palm branches.

Aspects

While traditionally made from fresh coconut leaves (ibus), they can also be crafted from other plants like buri, sago palm, or the century plant. The leaves are woven into various artistic shapes, such as crosses, stars, or birds, showcasing Filipino creativity. During Palm Sunday Mass, the faithful wave their palaspas as they are blessed with holy water by a priest. This act represents the public's acceptance of Jesus as the Messiah.

Tradition/Folk Beliefs

After the blessing, families bring them home and place them on doors, windows, or altars. Folk tradition suggests they can ward off evil spirits, bad luck, or lightning. Blessed palaspas are kept for a year. They are later collected and burned to create the ashes used for the following year's Ash Wednesday service. The art of weaving palm leaves in the Philippines dates back to pre-Hispanic times, when they were used to decorate lamps and venues for various festivities. 

Reference

Why Palms? The Significance of Palm Branches on Palm Sunday. (n.d.). Www.nashvillecatholic.org. https://www.nashvillecatholic.org/news/posts/why-palms-the-significance-of-palm-branches-on-palm-sunday

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https://www.facebook.com/iamcuriouscatholic/posts/ang-palm-sunday-o-linggo-ng-palaspas-ay-isang-mahalagang-araw-para-sa-ating-mga-/743600497905414/

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National Museum of the Philippines. (2022, April 10). Palaspas. National Museum. https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/2022/04/10/palaspas/

‌Palaspas Lenten Passion | Pateros Philippines. (2024). Pateros-Philippines.com. https://www.pateros-philippines.com/articles/palaspas-lenten-passion

‌Palm Sunday Palaspas. (2017, April 11). Journeys. https://orionblair.wordpress.com/2017/04/11/palm-sunday-palaspas/

‌https://www.facebook.com/SRCDoK/posts/katekesis-bakit-ipinagdiriwang-ang-linggo-ng-palaspastaun-taon-maraming-katoliko/667224902592459/

Photo Courtesy

https://ph.pinterest.com/pin/1477812374938321/