The integral relationship between Maori culture and nature is manifested in its profound reverence for sharks, which are venerated as embodiments of gods, spiritual guides, and foretellers of the future. These majestic creatures are woven into the fabric of Maori society, symbolizing power, guidance, and wisdom.
The concept of ‘atua’, or gods and spiritual beings in Maori mythology, extends to include shark gods. These godlike entities are central to the cultural narratives, providing a deeper understanding of the Maori worldview.
One of the most widely recognized shark gods in Maori culture is Mangō-Taniwha, the Great White Shark deity. Maori legend tells that this god descends from the primal parents, the Sky Father Rangi and the Earth Mother Papa, denoting its prominent role in the Maori pantheon. Associated with the sea, Mangō-Taniwha is often invoked during oceanic journeys and fishing trips, its perceived guardianship extending protection and guidance to Maori seafarers.
Another significant shark deity is Mangō-Huruhuru, the Thresher Shark god. This deity embodies stealth and cunning, with stories often emphasizing the Thresher Shark’s ability to outsmart and elude its adversaries. Maori warriors, seeking to embody these traits in warfare, would often call upon Mangō-Huruhuru for strength and strategic wisdom.
The cultural importance of sharks extends beyond their divine associations, infiltrating the practical realm of daily life. The Maori hold firm to the belief that sharks, as descendants of gods, are inherently tapu, or sacred. This belief manifests itself in the careful practices surrounding shark fishing and consumption.
The ‘mangō pare’, or hammerhead shark, for instance, is traditionally believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Fishing for this species was governed by strict rules and protocols to ensure respect for the animal’s spiritual essence. The catch was shared among the community, embodying the concepts of manaakitanga (hospitality) and whanaungatanga (kinship). The shark teeth, known as niho mangō, were often used in carving intricate pendants, signifying strength and power.
Sharks also feature prominently in whakatauki, or Maori proverbs, often symbolizing wisdom, strength, and adaptability. For instance, the saying “He mangō wai kōkī, he rangatira” translates to “Like a shark that pierces through the water, so too is a chief.” This proverb highlights the traits of leadership and assertiveness associated with sharks.
The relevance of sharks in the Maori worldview is further underscored in the tradition of ‘whakapapa’, or genealogical lineage. Certain tribes trace their lineage back to sharks, venerating these ancestors through oral narratives and customary practices. These tribal affiliations provide members with a deep sense of connection to their environment, instilling a respect and responsibility towards nature and its preservation.
The cultural importance of sharks is preserved in traditional Maori arts, such as carving and tattooing. The ‘hei-mangō’, a pendant carved in the likeness of a shark, is often worn as a talisman, believed to offer protection, particularly during sea voyages. Likewise, the ‘moko’, or Maori tattoo, often incorporates shark motifs, symbolizing strength, power, and protection.
In essence, sharks in Maori culture serve as bridges between the physical and spiritual realms, illustrating the seamless interweaving of nature, spirituality, and everyday life in the Maori worldview. They are revered as gods, respected as ancestors, and invoked as guardians. Their presence in cultural narratives, traditional arts, and daily practices underscores their profound cultural significance, shaping Maori identities and reinforcing their deep-rooted connections to their natural environment.