article
Kava ceremonial in Tonga
journal of the Polynesian Society • 36 • Published In 1927 • Pages: 21-47
By: Collocott, E. E. V. (Ernest Edgar Vyvyan).
Abstract
This is a description of the various aspects of the ritual involved in the use of kava, from the most formal ceremonial at the installation of the king, to informal friendly gatherings. In this extremely class-conscious society, the etiquette of the kava circle is complex. Collocott discusses the significance of the seating arrangements, and their reflection of the status of each of the noble lineages or 'houses,' presentation of food, kava preparation, order of serving, speeches, role of the MATAPULES and the relations between chiefs and MATAPULES, different kinds of kava roots, installation of a chief, the Tui Kanokupolu, and the Tui Tonga. He also discusses kava ritual during visits to shrines, kava for travelers, the use of kava in settling disputes, and the importance of names and titles during the kava ceremonies. The details of this ceremonial provide much information on the social relations of the noble lineages of Tonga.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2006
- Region
- Oceania
- Sub Region
- Polynesia
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Missionary
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Martin J. Malone; 1978
- Field Date
- no date
- Coverage Date
- not specified
- Coverage Place
- Tonga
- Notes
- By E. E. V. Collocott
- Includes bibliographical references
- LCCN
- 08012644
- LCSH
- Tongans