Unveiling Polynesian Symbols: Meanings & Significance
Do you know the profound significance that lies beneath the skin, etched in the indelible artistry of Polynesian tattoos? These aren't just pretty pictures; they are living stories, vibrant testaments to heritage, spirituality, and the enduring spirit of a people.
In Hawai'i, for instance, the concept of "breath" the very essence of life and spirit is powerfully represented. The symbol, known as the "kuhanu," encapsulates this vital force, echoing the breath of the god Ku. The Hawaiian god of war, Ku, is linked to the dualities of existence: life and death, light and darkness. This connection is visually communicated through the symbol itself, a tangible reminder of the constant interplay of these opposing forces. Further south, a Marquesan symbol, representing the nostrils of a tiki, serves a similar purpose. It, too, is a visual representation of breath, a constant reminder of the life force.
The Polynesian worldview, steeped in the wisdom of generations, emphasizes balance above all else. This equilibrium is not merely a philosophical concept but a way of life. Symbolic opposites light and darkness, life and death, positive and negative forces are not seen as enemies but as complementary elements. This is evident in their art, where these polarities harmonize to create a complete picture of existence. The practice of tattooing, in particular, serves as a profound expression of this philosophy.
Polynesian mythology is a rich and intricate web of beliefs, legends, and symbols that have been carefully passed down through the ages. These symbols are not randomly chosen designs; they are deeply embedded with cultural, spiritual, and historical meaning. They are windows into the Polynesian worldview, revealing the values, beliefs, and artistic expressions that shape their identity. Each line, curve, and motif contributes to the greater narrative, a story of ancestry, connection, and purpose.
Polynesian tattoo symbols are more than mere aesthetics; they represent various aspects of life. They speak to ancestry, celebrating the lineage that connects individuals to their heritage. They honor nature, acknowledging the profound relationship between the people and the environment. They embrace spirituality, reflecting the deep connection to the divine. They acknowledge personal achievements, celebrating the individual's journey and accomplishments. Artists who specialize in this form can help you choose the symbols that resonate with your story, guiding you through the process of creating a meaningful piece of art on your skin.
One of the most potent symbols in Polynesian tattoos is "Te Ha," often translated as "the breath of life." This powerful symbol represents vitality, energy, and the spiritual force that connects all living things. It's a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of all life, emphasizing the importance of balance and harmony within oneself and with the world around us. This aligns seamlessly with the core values of Polynesian culture: a commitment to equilibrium and respect for the natural world.
The sun and the moon are also important symbols. The sun is a source of energy, life, and light. Getting a tattoo of the sun symbolizes the illumination of ones lifes path. The value of this symbol changes, depending on how it is depicted. For instance, the sunrise signifies a surge of energy, while the sunset represents rebirth.
Polynesian tattoos generally fall into two primary categories, each with its own distinct purpose and aesthetic. One category is purely decorative, while the other serves as a powerful declaration of identity and lineage, telling a story etched in the skin. In both categories, however, the symbols are not merely ornamental but are interwoven with spirituality and tradition.
These symbols, such as shark's teeth and spearheads, are deeply rooted in Polynesian culture, representing strength, protection, and courage. These symbols are used to communicate ideas, emotions, states of mind, phrases, movements, memories, loved ones, and much more. They can be expressed in words, names, carvings, lei, designs, dance, and music. Hawaiians say many such representations have "kaona," expressions with deeper meanings, concealed references or innuendos.
In the context of Maori culture in Aotearoa (New Zealand), symbolism takes on a particular intensity. Rooted in mythology, legends, and the natural world, Maori symbols connect the people to their ancestors, the environment, and the spiritual realm. Far from being mere designs, Maori symbols carry layered meanings, expressed through carvings, tattoos (moko), jewelry, and art.
| Maori Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Koru | New life, growth, and the cycle of renewal. |
| Pikorua (Single & Double Twist) | Life's journey, enduring connections, and eternal friendship. |
| Toki (Adze) | Strength, leadership, and skilled craftsmanship. |
Each Maori symbol is deeply connected to the Polynesian way of life and carries a unique story and message. Whether in art, tattoos, or everyday objects, these symbols are a powerful representation of Polynesian heritage and traditions. Before the advent of written language, they were a means of remembering life stories, myths of creation, tales of the wearer, ancestry, and spirituality for centuries.
In the face of the uncertainty we find ourselves in today, the need for protection and wisdom is more pressing than ever. Polynesian cultures recognize this, and many symbols relate to protection. Here are some of the most commonly seen in tattooing, including the manaia, a mythological creature in Maori culture, often depicted with the head of a bird, the body of a man, and the tail of a fish, representing power over every realm.
The art of tattooing in Fiji is another rich and diverse landscape. Many Fijian tattoos include symbols unique to a specific tribe or family. These symbols can represent lineage, heritage, and tribal affiliations, acting as a visual declaration of belonging. Furthermore, Fijian tattoos often incorporate symbols related to traditional rituals and spiritual beliefs. These symbols can hold very specific meanings within the context of Fijian cultural practices.
In Polynesian culture, the fish is a powerful symbol of prosperity, riches, fertility, and life. The different parts of the fish are used to represent different meanings. For example, shark teeth are used to symbolize protection and guidance. These symbols are not merely aesthetic; they serve as constant reminders of the values and beliefs central to Polynesian life. Additionally, certain patterns are associated with specific tribes or islands, creating a tapestry of meanings that varies from one culture to another.
The turtle is one of the most famous symbols in Polynesian tattoo designs. The turtle reflects immortality and equanimity in life. Thus, they also represent family and resourcefulness. The enata symbol is another popular Polynesian motif that is used in many Polynesian tattoo designs.
Receiving a tattoo in Polynesian culture is a revered rite of passage, marking significant life transitions and milestones. The traditional process, before the advent of modern tools, involved sharpened bone, turtle shell, or wood to tap ink, made from natural materials, into the skin. This method required immense endurance and was accompanied by ritual chants and prayers, highlighting the sacred nature of the act.
The Maori, the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, have a profound relationship with their symbols. They settled in New Zealand around the 13th century, likely arriving by boat from more northern Polynesian shores. The symbols used in Polynesian tattoos are deeply rooted in the culture and mythology of the islands. They were not just a form of body art but also a way to express one's identity, social status, and spiritual beliefs.
This connection between the people, the land, and the spiritual world is represented by the Hawaiian symbol "l kahi," which also symbolizes the union of light (in the center) and darkness, of life and death within our experience of the world. The importance of caring for nature is also a key principle. If people take care of nature, nature will take care of the people as we are all connected.
The lizard, commonly found on many Polynesian islands, is seen as a divine animal. The lizard tattoo is formed by Polynesian tattoo artists with many tribal symbols that, when put together, form the shape of the lizard. This lizard tattoo style may look simple, but it is difficult to put so many tribal designs together to create one image.
The Polynesian use of symbols is a way to represent ideas, emotions, states of mind, phrases, movements, memories, loved ones, and much more. The symbols can be embodied in words, names, carvings, lei, designs, dance, music, and so on. Hawaiians say many such representations have "kaona," expressions with deeper meanings, concealed references, or innuendos.
Delving into the heart of symbols: The pulse of Polynesian life, in the vast canvas of the Pacific, the rich tapestry of Polynesian culture is stitched with symbols that are far more than mere adornments.
