Legends and Myths of Polynesia
Posted by Maris on 4th Jun 2024
Polynesian legends and myths are rich and diverse, deeply reflecting the culture and lifestyle of the Polynesian people. Here are some prominent legends and myths:
Māui - The Legendary Hero
Māui is one of the most important and popular mythological figures in Polynesia. There are many different stories about Māui, but some standout stories include:
The Story of the Raising of the Islands: Māui is said to have used a magical fishing rod to pull up islands from the bottom of the ocean. For example, the Māori believed that New Zealand was one of the islands that Māui pulled up.
The Story of Catching the Sun: Māui captured and slowed down the sun to lengthen the day, giving people more time to work and live.
Hine-nui-te-pō - Goddess of Death
Hine-nui-te-pō is the goddess of death in Maori mythology. According to legend, Māui tried to become immortal by entering the body of Hine-nui-te-pō, but was discovered and killed by her, forcing humanity to accept death.
Pele - Volcano Goddess
Pele is the goddess of volcanoes in Hawaiian mythology. She is the controller of volcanic activities on the Hawaiian Islands, especially the Kilauea volcano. The story of Pele is often associated with volcanic events and legends about love, betrayal and revenge.
Tangaroa - God of the Sea
Tangaroa is the god of the sea and one of the supreme deities of the Polynesian people. He is considered the creator of the oceans and all marine life. Tangaroa is often worshiped and sacrificed to ask for protection and peace at sea.
Rangi and Papa - The Creator Couple
Rangi (Heaven) and Papa (Earth) are the creative couple in Maori mythology. According to legend, the two hugged each other tightly, not letting light enter the world. Their children pushed them apart, creating space and light, and from there the world was born.
Moana - A Heroine's Journey
While not strictly an ancient legend, Disney's "Moana" draws inspiration from many elements of Polynesian mythology, including the character of Māui and sea legends. Moana is a great example of how myths can be reimagined and spread to a global audience.
Aumakua - Ancestor Spirit
In Hawaiian culture, Aumakua are protective ancestral spirits, often appearing as animals such as sharks, turtles, or birds. These Aumakua are revered and considered protectors of the family and clan.
Tiki - The First Man
Tiki is the equivalent of Adam in Polynesian mythology. He is said to be the first man created by the gods. Tiki is also the name of human-shaped wooden or stone statues used for worship in Polynesian culture.
The Story of Rapa Nui and the Moai
The legend of the people on the island of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) explains the appearance of giant Moai stone statues. The Moai are believed to represent their ancestors, and the erection of these statues is part of religious rituals and ancestral veneration.
Māori and Waka - Sacred Boats
The waka (boat) plays an important role in Maori legends. These waka are said to carry the ancestors of the Maori people from Hawaiki (a legendary homeland) to New Zealand. The stories of these journeys demonstrate the courage and seafaring skills of the Maori ancestors.
These legends and myths are interesting stories and deeply reflect the worldview, cultural values, and lifestyle of the Polynesian people.