Tohunga

Definition

Tohunga refers to a skilled expert or practitioner in Māori culture, often associated with spiritual, healing, and traditional knowledge. These individuals hold significant authority within their communities, serving as advisors in matters of spirituality, medicine, and cultural practices, thus intertwining their roles with both mythology and social structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tohunga were traditionally viewed as intermediaries between the spiritual world and the physical realm, often conducting rituals to connect with ancestors and deities.
2. Different tohunga specialized in various fields such as healing (tohunga rongoā), navigation (tohunga mōhio), and carving (tohunga whakairo), showcasing a diverse range of expertise.
3. During colonization, the role of tohunga was challenged as Western practices were introduced, yet many tohunga adapted by integrating new knowledge while maintaining traditional practices.
4. The preservation of tohunga knowledge is crucial for the revitalization of Māori culture, as they play a key role in transmitting traditional teachings to future generations.
5. In modern times, tohunga continue to be respected figures within Māori communities, often sought after for guidance on cultural practices and health matters.

Review Questions

• How do tohunga serve as cultural leaders within Māori communities and what influence do they have on social structure?
  • Tohunga play a vital role in Māori communities as cultural leaders who provide guidance and expertise in spiritual and healing practices. Their authority is respected due to their specialized knowledge, which influences decision-making processes within iwi and hapū. By serving as advisors on important cultural matters, tohunga help maintain social cohesion and uphold traditions that are essential to Māori identity.
• Discuss the relationship between tohunga and Māori mythology in terms of spiritual practices and rituals.
  • Tohunga are deeply connected to Māori mythology as they often perform rituals that invoke spiritual beings and ancestors. Their expertise allows them to interpret myths and apply them within community rituals, fostering a sense of connection between the people and their spiritual beliefs. This relationship emphasizes the importance of storytelling and tradition in preserving cultural identity while also showcasing how tohunga bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual realms.
• Evaluate the impact of colonialism on the roles and perceptions of tohunga within Māori society and how they have adapted over time.
  • Colonialism significantly impacted the roles of tohunga by introducing Western medical practices and challenging traditional beliefs. This led to a decline in the perceived importance of tohunga as spiritual leaders. However, many tohunga adapted by integrating Western knowledge while continuing to uphold traditional practices. This adaptability not only allowed them to maintain their relevance within contemporary Māori society but also facilitated a revival of interest in indigenous knowledge systems, highlighting the resilience of tohunga in preserving cultural heritage amidst external pressures.

Related terms

Rangatira: A chief or leader within a Māori iwi or hapū, responsible for decision-making and governance.

Mātauranga Māori: The body of traditional knowledge and practices of the Māori people, encompassing various disciplines including spirituality, medicine, and environmental stewardship.

Waiata: Māori songs that often convey stories, teachings, and cultural values, which can be connected to the role of tohunga in preserving traditions.