View source for Bax Ma’ga – Sending Loved Ones On

= Bax Ma’ga – Sending Loved Ones On =
''INITIATION DRAFT — Ayaawx Law page describing the Tsm̱syen responsibility and spiritual work of sending loved ones on their journey after death.''

== Core Meaning ==
'''Bax Ma’ga''' refers to the cultural, spiritual, and lawful process of **sending a loved one onward** after death.  
This work protects:
* the dignity of the deceased,  
* the honour ([[łoomsk]]) of the [[wilp]],  
* the emotional balance of the family,  
* and the spiritual continuity between generations.

Bax Ma’ga is both **practical work** and **spiritual responsibility**.

== Responsibilities of the Wilp ==
When someone passes, the matrilineal [[wilp]] carries the primary responsibility to:
* guide the family,  
* prepare the ceremonial work,  
* host the Soup Feast or Smoke Feast,  
* coordinate grieving protocols,  
* manage the headstone and grave marker,  
* and ensure the deceased is sent on with dignity.

Other Houses support, but **the wilp leads.**

== The Work of Sending On ==
Bax Ma’ga includes several layers of responsibility:

* caring for the body and belongings,  
* comforting immediate family,  
* preparing the funeral or memorial,  
* observing mourning practices,  
* raising the headstone in due time,  
* honouring helpers through [[Gwiikxw]],  
* and completing all public acknowledgements before witnesses.

Each step is part of a larger law of **letting go, honouring, and healing.**

== Emotional Law ==
Bax Ma’ga is not only ritual — it is emotional law.

Families are given:
* time to grieve,  
* time to gather strength,  
* time to speak openly,  
* time to restore balance.

Unresolved tension, conflict, or anger **must not be present** during the sending-on work.  
If necessary, a Soup Feast is held to settle internal matters so the deceased’s honour is protected.

== Role of the Matriarchs ==
The [[sigyidm hana̱'a̱]]:
* guide the grieving family,  
* help with decisions on belongings,  
* maintain order during gatherings,  
* ensure proper conduct ([[wila waal]]),  
* and preserve the dignity of the proceedings.

Their calm presence keeps the House steady.

== Role of the Simgyaget and Speakers ==
The [[simgyaget]]:
* speaks on behalf of the House,  
* expresses grief and gratitude,  
* anchors the lineage connection,  
* and acknowledges those who supported the family.

The [[sgigithanauk]] ensures all words are spoken clearly and correctly.

== Feast Connections ==
Bax Ma’ga often includes:
* a Soup Feast (Smoke Feast) for preparation,  
* a memorial gathering,  
* or a portion of a larger [[li’ligit]] when honouring a high-ranking person.

These gatherings:
* thank the helpers,  
* honour witnesses,  
* reaffirm relationships,  
* and complete the obligations left for the living.

== Handling Personal Belongings ==
Under ayaawx:
* the belongings of the deceased are handled with respect,  
* distributed according to the wilp’s guidance,  
* and never taken for personal gain.

Improper distribution may require [[ha’lidzap]] (correction).

== The Headstone Connection ==
The raising of the headstone is often the **final step** in Bax Ma’ga.  
It signals:
* the completion of mourning,  
* the fulfillment of obligations,  
* and the sending on of the spirit.

Witnesses acknowledge the work as complete.

== Spiritual Continuity ==
Tsm̱syen teachings remind us:
* our loved ones travel on,  
* they join the ancestors of the House,  
* they watch over the living,  
* and the living honour them through proper conduct.

This connection between the living and the ancestors keeps the lineage strong.

== Modern Adaptations ==
Today Bax Ma’ga may include:
* church services,  
* cemetery protocols,  
* modern materials for headstones,  
* English-language eulogies.

These do not replace ayaawx —  
they simply sit alongside it, allowing the House to honour tradition in a modern world.

== When Bax Ma’ga Is Not Done Properly ==
If obligations are ignored or done incorrectly:
* the House may lose honour,  
* tensions may deepen,  
* relationships may weaken,  
* or the grieving may feel incomplete.

Correction through Soup Feast, apology, or proper acknowledgement restores balance.

== Notes ==
INITIATION DRAFT — To be expanded with teachings from matriarchs, chiefs, and grief workers across Tsm̱syen territories.