Symbols are very important to the Maori religion. Their symbols that came about thousands of years ago represent many stories of life, myths of creation, tales of the wearer, ancestry and spirituality. The symbols were invented long before there was a written language. Often painted, tattooed or carved, each symbol has strong related meanings. The way in which they were drawn, their location and size all influence their intended meaning. It was important to get this right so that the symbols told the right story. Those with the skill to make these sacred symbols, Ta Moko artists for example, were seen as sacred in ancient Maori society. Today Maori symbols and meanings in Ta Moko are still very clear. Symbols used in pounamu carving are simpler in design because the material is more limiting, and therefore have less specific meanings. There are six extremely popular symbols used time and time again in pounamu carving, they are the koru, the twist, the manaia, the tiki, the fish hook and the toki blade. |
Find info about traditional Maori symbols at: www.tuarangi.com/meaning-of-maori-symbols-and-designs/