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Tongan Culture Guide
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South Pacific Culture - Traditional Life
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Tongan culture and its political spin-off is one of the most complex and traditional in the region. The Tongans once ruled much of Polynesia and since the European invasion during the 18th century, Tonga retained its powerful monarchy. However, Christian religion was quickly adopted and today Tongans are amongst the most stout believers on earth. Sunday is an absolute strict day of rest when only policemen may work to ensure its observance.
The Tui Tonga, the hereditary king of Tonga, rules the Kingdom with absolute power. Tongan culture retains a strong divide between the royal families and the commoners and even today common people must use a special dialect when addressing someone of royal status. Much has been criticized of the system, particularly by folks who have moved abroad to free themselves of the incestuous restrictions in commerce.
That saying, Tongans are proud people and outwardly amongst the happiest and friendliest of the South Pacific peoples. Women here have more freedom and status than anywhere else in the South Pacific.
Tongans live in close knit communities, usually with large extended families where second and even third cousins are considered close relatives. It is unusual to find a Tongan house isolated from its neighbours or with a fence around its garden. Feasting is regarded with great importance and the larger in size a person, the greater his or her status. Pigs are also reveered as important symbols of society and dare one killed by accident, the culprit is sought out and revenged by either beating or hefty penalty. When the King grew too obese and was encouraged by his doctor to go on a diet, the nation showed its respect and dieted with him.
One of the most striking outward aspects of Tongan culture is the wearing of traditional mats, ta'avala by both men and women, the elderly and children, at home, work and whilst out shopping in town. These finely woven mats worn like a skirt come in all shapes and sizes, each one having significance. Some are of general design, worn simply as an item of clothing, but most have traditional significance, marking all aspects of life from the expectancy of birth to the mourning of death.
Traditional dance is another important part of the culture, as with all parts of the South pacific. A unique aspect of Tongan dance is the highly acclaimed solo dances performed by women at their weddings.
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