The residents of Jamaica present a variety of old customs and practices. Some of these are associated with the birth and death rituals of individuals. Although many of these are practiced in various areas throughout the country and even abroad, there are others that have lost their significance through the years and are only limited today. One of the basic rites in Jamaica is related to the delivery process, and involves burying the umbilical cord of a newborn baby.
A tree, known as a “navel-string tree” or “baby tree” is planted at the spot where the umbilical cord was buried. This way, the baby stays linked to his or her place of birth and can even visit the tree as they both grow together. The practice is based in the Jamaican principle of going back to their place of origin and thriving for the sake of their people.
The Nine Night is also considered as one of the most essential Jamaican funeral events. During the first eight nights, the relatives and friends of the dead gather at his house and celebrate by singing, dancing and drinking the night away. On the ninth night, goodbye songs are played. The room of the person who died is also rearranged to prevent the spirit of the dead from returning and living in the same room. A last meal is also presented to the spirit and kept beneath a silk-cotton tree. It is believed to be the place where spirits hide. A customary Jamaican marriage involves a big celebration, a lot of food and big expenses. There is a time when big families gather and mingle before the big wedding day.