Table of Contents
What does Teine SA mean?
Teine Sā are the ancient spirit women, with the ability to bless and curse in equal measure. From the notorious goddess Telesa to the Hiama of the Solomon Islands, these tales of the unexpected take age-old stories on many twists and turns.
What do Samoans sleep on?
In Samoan culture, most activities are done together. The traditional living quarters, or fale (houses), contain no walls and up to 20 people may sleep on the ground in the same fale. During the day, the fale is used for chatting and relaxing.
What is a famous myth legend about Samoa?
The Turtle & the Shark One of Samoa’s most famous legends began on the island of Savai’i. During a devastating famine, a blind old woman and her granddaughter threw themselves into the ocean so they would not be a burden on their selfish and unwelcoming family.
What is a Telesa in Samoa?
one of the most well known is Telesa the aiku goddess of Lepea in Upolu. In Samoa, your hair, flowing, waving and weaving, becomes alive with magic in the moonlight…. Beware the power of your hair and beware the flaunting of it, lest the fury of the Teine Sa is invoked.
What happens on White Sunday in Samoa?
If you’re lucky enough to be in Samoa for White Sunday you’re in for a treat. Samoan culture treasures children and this day is all about them. They may get gifts or privileges usually reserved for adults (like eating first).
What does it mean to cover a mirror at a wake?
Covering Mirrors is also a practice in Chinese wakes Mirrors were covered during my Grandpa’s wake when he passed on in 1980. The belief is that his soul still remains in the house with his family during the time of the wake (what Jews will call the 7 days of mourning).
Why do we cover the mirrors in a house of mourning?
These demons cannot be seen by the naked eye. But when looking in a mirror, you may catch a glimpse of their reflection in the background. And so we cover the mirrors in a house of mourning because we don’t want to be alarmed by seeing these demonic visitors.
Why are Samoan customs important to respect?
As with any country – it’s important to respect Samoan customs, especially in villages. Fa’a Samoa – the Samoan way – is a way of life that stretches back more than 3,000 years and is reflected in every aspect of Samoa’s communal society.