The Māori worldview is holistic and cyclic, and refers to the core ideas and beliefs which govern the way in which Māori perceive and interact with the world around them (Newman, 2016). A key aspect of this view is determined by the many different cultural concepts. Māori cultural concepts all originate from the creation narratives, stories of atua (gods), and are not isolated, but are related to one another (Carter, 2016). Understanding these concepts gives a greater depth of understanding of Māori culture, in turn, allowing for a greater appreciation for Māori society. This essay will analyse only three of the many cultural concepts present in Māori society; mana (authority and power), tapu (sacred or prohibited), and lastly utu (reciprocity).
…show more content…
It originates from the power of atua, as they created everything. There are two categories of tapu; intrinsic and extrinsic tapu. Intrinsic tapu refers to the tapu that an individual is born with as a result of their connection with atua and their mana. For example, the intrinsic tapu of mountains would be from their connection with Papatuanuku (earth god) and her mana. Intrinsic tapu isn’t affected by noa (ordinary), it’s a quality inside that cannot be removed by anyone else. On the other hand, extrinsic tapu is one that allows for both interaction and use, it’s this form of tapu which dictates how one interacts with others and the wider environment (Carter, 2016). The amount of tapu which an individual possesses is not fixed and can increase as individuals improve their social rankings or through good deeds which are recognised by others. Damage to tapu can arise through various means such as, direct physical assault or public humiliation (Metge, 1976, pp. 58-60). It is important to follow the tikanga (rules) regarding tapu, as not doing so is seen as disrespecting atua (Media New Zealand , 2016). A common way to do so, followed even today, is to not sit on a table where food will either be prepared or eaten (Mead, 2003). This is because the intrinsic tapu of the individual would make the table tapu, so it wouldn’t be able to be used. Not following the tikanga …show more content…
As highlighted in this essay, these cultural concepts play a major role in governing the way in which Māori behave with their hapu, iwi, others, and the environment. Utu, tapu, and mana all highlight how cultural concepts reflect and shape the Māori worldview. These three concepts, along with others, still play a key role in Māori society and still hold the same importance as they would have to their ancestors. Though the ways in which these concepts may be practiced may differ from what was traditionally practiced, the cultural significance is still the same. Understanding these ideas gives a greater understanding of the Māori worldview and in turn a greater understanding to Māori
It originates from the power of atua, as they created everything. There are two categories of tapu; intrinsic and extrinsic tapu. Intrinsic tapu refers to the tapu that an individual is born with as a result of their connection with atua and their mana. For example, the intrinsic tapu of mountains would be from their connection with Papatuanuku (earth god) and her mana. Intrinsic tapu isn’t affected by noa (ordinary), it’s a quality inside that cannot be removed by anyone else. On the other hand, extrinsic tapu is one that allows for both interaction and use, it’s this form of tapu which dictates how one interacts with others and the wider environment (Carter, 2016). The amount of tapu which an individual possesses is not fixed and can increase as individuals improve their social rankings or through good deeds which are recognised by others. Damage to tapu can arise through various means such as, direct physical assault or public humiliation (Metge, 1976, pp. 58-60). It is important to follow the tikanga (rules) regarding tapu, as not doing so is seen as disrespecting atua (Media New Zealand , 2016). A common way to do so, followed even today, is to not sit on a table where food will either be prepared or eaten (Mead, 2003). This is because the intrinsic tapu of the individual would make the table tapu, so it wouldn’t be able to be used. Not following the tikanga …show more content…
As highlighted in this essay, these cultural concepts play a major role in governing the way in which Māori behave with their hapu, iwi, others, and the environment. Utu, tapu, and mana all highlight how cultural concepts reflect and shape the Māori worldview. These three concepts, along with others, still play a key role in Māori society and still hold the same importance as they would have to their ancestors. Though the ways in which these concepts may be practiced may differ from what was traditionally practiced, the cultural significance is still the same. Understanding these ideas gives a greater understanding of the Māori worldview and in turn a greater understanding to Māori