article

The supernatural in Tonga

American anthropologist, n.s.23 • Published In 1962 • Pages: 415-444

By: Collocott, E. E. V. (Ernest Edgar Vyvyan).

Abstract
This source discusses various aspects of two key Tongan religious concepts: tabu and mana. Tabu refers to sacredness and prescriptions for proper behavior. Under the heading of tabu are prescriptions referring to: birth and puberty, social tabus, death, the Tui Tonga, ceremonious speech, the installation of the Tui Kanokupolu, fishing, and sin. Mana refers to supernatural force. It may be found in omens, people and tools, especially weapons, apparitions, divination, witchcraft, and spirit possession. Much of the information in the source is based on historical texts and the memory of older informants since Christianity has supplanted most of the beliefs and practices reported here.
Subjects
Fishing
Status, role, and prestige
Classes
Etiquette
Nuptials
Chief executive
Executive household
Sorcery
Magical and mental therapy
Eschatology
Sacred objects and places
Avoidance and taboo
Revelation and divination
Magicians and diviners
Ethnozoology
Pregnancy
Postnatal care
culture
Tongans
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
17015424
LCSH
Tongans