The Maori Culture Essay -- Zealand Religion Spiritual Essays Papers Na

The Maori CultureIntroduction The spare-time activity paper examines the history and religion of the ancient Maori people. It is my belief that exploration of traditional belief systems and ritualistic practices will lead to a greater fellow feeling of the Maori culture in present-day New Zealand. The objective of the paper is to enlarge the Maoris unique perception and spiritual connection with their natural environment. Brief Maori biographyThe Maori, Children of Heaven, are the indigenous people of New Zealand. It has been thought that Polynesian navigator Kupe, discovered New Zealand in 950 AD, and named the island Aotearoa, Land of the long uninfected cloud.1 The Maori migrated to New Zealand from the tropical islands of Polynesia in the Pacific Ocean. The long excursion was made possible by the Maoris ability to use the stars, birds flights, cloud patterns, and the pees color to guide their canoes to shore.1 Upon arrival, the Maori settled into various tribes (Iwi) and sub-tribes (Hapu) across the island.3 In order to adapt to the cool, damp mood and rough terrain of New Zealand, the Maori created unchanging shelter and clothing. They resourcefully utilized the wood and flax fibers from the abundant forests to build homes and flutter clothing.4The Maori tribes were commensurate to evolve and flourish as a result of inquisition and agriculture. The relative isolation of the island enabled the Maori to develop a rich, unique culture.5 Thus, the Maori culture was able to resist crumbling under European colonization in 1769. Regardless of the Europeans regular fight for land ownership, the Maori persisted in viewing that the land as go Earths placenta and not belonging to anyone.3 It is remarkable that the Maori withstood... ... belong to homo rather the humans belong to the land.3 The perspective that humans play a small role in the universes movement is a humbling thought. The Maori proceed their lives as human beings, while allowing nature to live its life. As seen above with the seasonal rituals, the Maori have a deep understanding, reliance, and respectfulness for nature. It is their brothers that bring the seasonal weather changes and the life cycles that result. Thus, the Maori view the variable climate of New Zealand in a deep, meaningful light.Bibliographyhttp//www.geocites.com/TheTropics/Shores/9338/culture.htm1 http//www.crystalinks.com/maori.html http//travel-by-mouse.com/page.asp?PageID=151&LangID=25 http//www.pacificislandtravel.com/new_zealand/about_destin/maoritanga.html6 http//www.ace.net.au/darkmoon/kiwipag.htm7 http//www.hakoke.com/wheel.html