Tatau and Samoan Language Week 2024

Question 1

What was the missionaries’ view on traditional Samoan practices, including tatau, when they arrived in the 1800s?

Accepted Answer

They considered them inconsistent with Christian beliefs

Question 2

What materials were used to make the primitive tatto tools?

Accepted Answer

Bone or boar husk and sea turtle shell

Question 3

What happened to the practice of tatau in the mid-20th century?

Accepted Answer

There was a cultural resurgence and renewed interest

Question 4

What is the role of the tafuga in Samoan tattooing?

Accepted Answer

They are the tattoo artists

Question 5

Where did Taema and Tilafaiga arrive with their tattoing knowledge?

Accepted Answer

Falealupo

Question 6

What is symbolized by the Fa’avae’ali (Feet of the wooden ‘ali head rest)?

Accepted Answer

Service to family

Question 7

What does the Fa’a’autualoa (centipede) design represent?

Accepted Answer

Strength and aiga (family)

Question 8

Who is traditionally allowed to be a tattoo artist in Samoan culture?

Accepted Answer

Only the descendants of the tafuga

Question 9

What was the original chant of Taema and Tilafaiga about tattooing

Accepted Answer

Only women are to be tattoed

Question 10

What does having a tatau signify in samoan culture?

Accepted Answer

Readiness for adulthood and community service

Question 11

How is the theme for this week related “Tautua i le alofa manuia le lumana’i” related to tatau?

Accepted Answer

It highlights service to family and community for future generations

Question 12

Who brought the art of tatau to Samoa?

Accepted Answer

Two women named Taema and Tilafaiga

Question 13

What happened to the song Taema and Tilafaiga sang as they reached the shores?

Accepted Answer

It was reversed to say only men will be tattooed

Question 14

Who favored the twins and gave them tattooing tools?

Accepted Answer

Tuifiti

Question 15

How was the soot for the ink collected in traditional tatau?

Accepted Answer

By burning candle nuts and collecting soot in a coconut shell

Question 16

What was the ink used in tatau rituals made from?

Accepted Answer

Candle or lama nut soot mixed with sugar water

Questions 16