What does the tatau represent?

The tattoo and designs of the Samoa islands represents community, power, status, respect, honor, and is a mark of pride that are only to be worn by Samoans. For those who have no cultural influence or heritage background it is an act of disrespect to display their symbols and designs.

What does tatau mean in Hawaiian?

tattoo artist + person being tattooed = tatau So, the word tatau, not only in form but in meaning, evokes a physical image of tattooing, as well as the literal translation (‘to mark’) and the sound of tattooing (tatau … tatau … tatau).

What does the malu represent?

The symbolism depicted on a tatau or malu represents a covenant between a Samoan and his or her way of life. It is “O Mea Sina”. It is sacred. The word malu means protect, shelter, security.

What does tatau mean in Tahitian?

Did you know that the word, “tattoo” comes from the Tahitian word “Tatau,” which means, “to mark something?” A Polynesian tradition.

Who can get tatau?

The tatau’s history Young Samoan men were usually tattooed between the ages of 14-18 and the process is thought of as a coming-of-age ritual. The female Samoan tatau is called a malu and covers from the mid-thigh to the knees and is not usually as dense as the pe’a.

What is a samaga?

Four members of one Samoan family have celebrated a ceremony of blessing – the “Samaga” – where all four proudly revealed their traditional tatoos.

Can anyone get a Samoan PE A?

No. You don’t have to be Samoan to get a Samoan tattoo. It’s not difficult to find a tattooist who will take your money for a bit of Samoan looking skin art. It’s your body.

What does a Samoan tatau mean?

The tatau are more of a symbol of pride in Samoan culture. A Samoan male traditionally must ask his elders for approval for his tattoo request, and once it has been approved it is a proud moment for him. He may eventually receive tattoos completely covering his body including his abdomen, rear, and legs.

Why do people have their Tatau?

People have their tatau because it has a meaning of itself. Tatau was their before the Christianity arrived in Samoa and brought morality to people. Therefore, people are aware of the culture values and christian values. When you look deeply to each design meanings of the tatau, it tells your story and my story.

What does a Samoan turtle tattoo mean?

The Samoan Turtle tattoo is a basic symbol using thick lines to create a turtle-like shape. This shape can be incorporated into larger sleeves, back, or chest pieces. The meaning of this turtle tattoo is the hope for long life or even an eternal soul. It also symbolizes harmony in the family and fertility in the family.

What does it mean to have a taupou tattoo?

The taupou (village maiden), who has an important ceremonial role in the community, is always tattooed from her knee to the top of her leg and sometimes on her hands. Both male and female tattoos show that you are ready for life, for adulthood and to be of service to your community.