Māori Worldview and Cultural Identity

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a positive attribute of Tāmaki in Te Ao Māori?

Precious

Innovative

Curious

Challenging (correct)

What is the significance of comparing Tāmaki to pounamu?

To symbolize the beauty and value of Tāmaki. (correct)

To emphasize the importance of Tāmaki in the family structure.

To reflect the adaptability of Tāmaki in various environments.

To highlight the strength and resilience of Tāmaki.

What does the term "whānau" encompass in Te Ao Māori?

Only refers to immediate family members.

Represents the social structure of the community.

Includes both the family and the process of birth. (correct)

Specifically relates to the role of elders in the family.

Which of the following terms represents the land in Te Ao Māori?

Whenua Signup and view all the answers

How is the concept of "iwi" related to Tāmaki?

Iwi refers to the social structure and support system for Tāmaki. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main message about Tāmaki in Te Ao Māori conveyed in the text?

Tāmaki are valued for their curious, innovative, and precious qualities. Signup and view all the answers

How might the inquisitive nature of Tāmaki be perceived in some contexts?

As a sign of disrespect and rebellion. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the text?

To highlight the cultural values and perspectives on Tāmaki in Te Ao Māori. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of whakapapa in the perception of Tāmaki Māori?

It connects them to their familial lineage and inherent mana. Signup and view all the answers

At what point is personhood gained in Te Ao Māori?

At conception, before birth. Signup and view all the answers

How are Tāmaki Māori viewed within Te Ao Māori?

They hold their own mana and potential derived from their ancestry. Signup and view all the answers

Within the context discussed, what role does each individual have in relation to the Māori world?

To play a part in the development of the Māori world. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Pepe Māori' refer to in the context of this discussion?

Māori babies considered to have inherent mana from conception. Signup and view all the answers

What character trait is associated with Tāmaki Waiwakitaha?

An inquisitive nature in child development. Signup and view all the answers

How does one's worldview influence perceptions of different groups within society?

It shapes the values and roles assigned to children, women, and elders. Signup and view all the answers

What is the misconception about Tāmaki Māori held by those unfamiliar with their cultural significance?

They underestimate the role of culture in their identity. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Māori World

In the Māori world, each individual has a role to play in its development, regardless of their whānau (family), culture, religion, or social group.
Worldviews and cultures shape how we think about different individuals or groups within our society.

Perception of Tāmaki Māori

In Te Ao Māori, Tāmaki Māori are seen as holding their own mana (skills, wisdom, potential) through their whakapapa (genealogy).
They are perceived as having inherent mana, prestige, and standing from their parents, grandparents, and tūpuna (ancestors) through their whakapapa.
Right from conception, Pepe Māori (Māori children) are seen as carrying their whakapapa and having value within that continuity.
In Te Ao Māori, personhood is gained at conception, not birth, unlike some other cultures.

Māori Understanding of Child Development

Tāmaki Waiwakitaha refers to the inquisitive nature of Tāmaki, which is encouraged in Te Ao Māori as a trait for learning and development.
Curiosity, innovation, and questioning are encouraged within Te Ao Māori, but may be challenging in other contexts.

Hapū te Po Pounamu

Hapū te Po Pounamu represents the precious nature of Tāmaki, comparing them to pounamu (a precious stone).
This concept highlights the value of Tāmaki within the context of the whānau, hapū, and iwi.

Multiple Meanings and Contexts

Whānau refers to family, but also means the process of being born, as seen in the phrase "rā whānau" (happy birthday).
Hapū means both the extent of whānau and pregnancy.
Whenua (land) nourishes us while we're living and is also associated with nourishing the baby during pregnancy.
Iwi (bones) represents the social structure that gives our people their sense of belonging.