Santa Muerte

August 14, 2017
This is a comprehensive and well-researched guide to the Mexican folk saint Santa Muerte, the “female personification of death... associated with protection and safe passage to the afterlife.” Rollin begins by citing the beliefs and practices of religions and cultures across the world that may have influenced or been influenced by Santa Muerte. In particular, she addresses the qualities, powers, and influences of Santa Muerte and discusses many “spells,” or prayers, that allegedly help to heal relationships, cure illnesses, bring good luck, and increase sexual pleasure, among other things. Rollin also explores the Aztec origins and other “parent religions” from which the veneration of Santa Muerte arose, as well as the factors that may contribute to the unofficial folk saint’s growing popularity in current times, which she attributes to a mix of folk status and subversive appeal. While the book focuses specifically on one saint, Rollin’s understanding of a variety of religions grounds the book in a broad and inclusive understanding of the world’s many mystical beliefs. At times, the work can be so straightforward that it takes on a textbook quality, but the wealth of information contained here will appeal to those seeking a studied and historical understanding of Santa Muerte.