While the fisher is waiting for a bite, his boat must move on slowly. In time, remembering a loved one may bring more comfort than pain. Ua va i lupe maua le aso neithis is a happy day, indeed. 11, 12, 23. If at first you dont suceed try, try and try again. It is also used as an upu faifai to repulse someone's interference. E atagia taga tafili. 182. Below Ive listed the most well-known Samoan idioms and expressions. Lani Wendt Young, Telesa: The Covenant Keeper. (Samoan Proverb) The grasshopper flies about, but the kingfisher watches him. A beautiful Samoan quote about love meaning that brothers protect their sisters. It is also used as an upu fa'amaulalo: Fa'amolemole, ai a'u nei ua ou le seu fa'aalo. ", "As long as a man lives, the entire world is too small for him; After death, the grave is big enough. To drill holes that do not meet. The work, called milota'i, is usually done by the women. Ua se i'a e sola. Ia a le puga, a le 'ana, or la a le puga niisi, a le 'ana niisi. Upu faifai applied to an orator whose speech does not meet with approval. The saying means: I have the right to take part in the discussion. Applied to someone who succumbs to a high chief or an orator, also to a taupou (village virgin) who elopes with a man of rank. When a village is making a new net, the nearby villages are not allowed to fish for some time before its completion. Upu fa'amaulalo signifying that a person is unwilling to vouch for the correctness of his report or the unalter-ableness of his opinion. The tropic bird's breastbone is visible. 69. May the coconut tree bear a rich harvest. When lying in the sand, they can easily hurt one another. 23 Samoan Proverbs 1. Samoan Gather the breadfruit from the farthest branches first. Inspirational Samoan Quotes & Sayings. This is in the language that the matais or chief of the people would use because he is discussing matter of extreme importance. (LogOut/ Some maintain that ufu is the name of a certain fish and paipai the substance secreted by it. Large like a bundle of sugarcane leaves. 19. Traditionally, Samoans believed in dying at home and being buried the day after death to prevent the spirit from causing any trouble or misfortune for their family, Samoan Sin is carried in the mouth. Remarks: This method of hunting is not to be confounded with the hunt of the fua'o that nest in large numbers on Pola Rock in Tutuila. To push the cross-piece back and forth (in order to spread the net). Upu fa'aulaula with which a matai refers to the common people (tagata-leutele). 175. The fish fugausi secretes a whitish substance in which it hides itself and feels secure from its enemies. To this refers the popular song: A'e i le Pola ne'i gaseNe'i sosola o manu e. Climb the Pola Rock noiselessly lest the birds fly away. When a Samoan has to do manual work, he takes off his lavalava and puts on a girdle of ti leaves. The saying means: To countermine another's evil designs. The plait of the fine mats ('ie toga) should be uniformly fine and close. It came not when the yam plant withered; it came not when it sprouted again; it came when the plant was once more in leaf. Experts may use their hands only to catch small octopi; but the correct and most efficient method is fishing with the help of the sao. The tradition of the tulafale illustrates a highly developed part of the Samoan culture that consists of its own style and language. "Who is old and doesn't believe it, will trip into his grave without seeing it." You shake in vain the branch that bears no fruit. Upu faifai applied to a restless person or a chatterbox. However, when hostilities began he joined the fish. The land where her house stood now belongs to Chief Auva'a. The mago fled towards Savai'i followed by the pa'itele. The glare of her torch unexpectedly attracted a large number of flying fish that fell into the canoe although it was not flying fish she wanted but a different kind. Because of this incomplete fastening the term: 136. Ua fa'afaiva o matu'u. 15. The tia are close together but it is long way from one to the other. Upu fiafia: expressions of joy and contentment. A fisherman at his work or returning from the sea, being asked whether he has caught anything, will give a negative answer if he wants to keep all the fish for himself. Like a breadfruit plucked on stony ground, (i.e., plucked off a tree growing on stony ground, so that the fruit will be crushed and no longer usable). Ua afa le aso. It grew in the bush, but it is cast away in the road. Turner, on page 221, says: If a pigeon sees its mate fall dead, it will drop down and cover the body with its wings even though it should be killed also. Fa'atilotilo masae. doi:10.21037/apm.2018.s016. Applied to a resolution corresponding to what is customary in the family or the village. The torch is tilted over while the flying fish die. A worthless bird flies over the tia. At night he came ashore through a passage in the reef to look for his prey and in the morning he returned to the sea. Samoan Sign Language is used by at least some of the deaf population.Apia is the capital and the largest city of Samoa. These proverbs and sayings reflect those thoughts: There is a time for everything, including humor. A new road is ala fati. The word umu signifies a hole, a groove. Upu faifai: offensive expressions, insults. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Upu alofa, fa'aulaula or fa'anoanoa. 53. As he was rejected, he died of grief. 31. To catch the first pigeon of the day is considered a special achievement. Tau ina iloa ia i'a. 49. 153. Used of an asembly whose members have come from different villages and who, later on, will disperse again. Upu fa'amafanafana. (Kraemer's contention that the moamoa is not eaten in incorrect.). 11. 119. 48. They are all of one mind. Ia ifo le fuiniu i le lapalapa. Samoan traditional woven mat(Credit: Wikipedia). 111. The word manuia is used to wish somebody well with anything at all, and can be used to say goodbye as well: IN the field of rhetoric the Samoans have shown both skill and artistry. Someone who comes to grief as a result of their own actions O le ia itiiti le igaga. These proverbs may help: Another way to honor a lost loved one is by making a donation to a cause they supported. 110. (Samoan Proverb) More Samoan Proverbs (Based on Topics) Love Proverbs - Life Proverbs - Death & Dying Proverbs - Success Proverbs - Happiness Proverbs - Friendship Proverbs - View All Topics. 5. 7. A beautiful Samoan quote about love meaning that brothers protect their sisters. E lafi a taga usi. Upu fa'anoanoa or alofa, applied to things that were well begun, but ended badly. She did not let on. That is the opinion of a landlubber. At lauloa fishing some men must mind the net lest it become entangled and tear in the stones and coral slabs, while the others are dragging it. Before everything else a house. The ise (garfish) is caught by torch light with a hoop-net. 75. Troy Polamalu. The bonito fishing rod is fastened to the thwart by means of a sinnet ring (futia). Sa'a faaoti le utu a le faimea. 27. While they slept, an aitu (spirit, devil) came along and took on the form of one of the women. The select circle of orators and chiefs gather together to share speeches, recite genealogies, consume a popular plant called kava and finish the process by celebrating with a feast prepared by the new members family. 60. The fishermen said Ua tagi le pu ina ua maua i le upega, o le a mate. (The pu cries because it is caught in the net where it will die.). Upu fa'anoanoa or alofa. Upu fa'aulaula: Playful words referring to losses easy to bear and easy to repair. According to the communistic system of the Samoans, a travelling party is allowed to beg fish-hooks at the houses where they call. (2) At a reconciliation the opponents should openly confess the cause of their dissatisfaction, so that permanent peace may be concluded. Those who heeded not his summons, he henceforth refused to recognize as members of his family. E tele a ululau. The host, for instance, addresses the words to an unexpected visitor to excuse the delay in having things ready for his reception. Gifts include money and fine hand-woven mats (usually for display only and then rolled and stored). Now, family members often remain in the homeland, and migrant members send them money. ", "What you give for the cause of charity in health is gold; what you give in sickness is silver; what you give after death is lead. As an upu fa'amafanafana: E le afaina, ua e pa'u i se niu umiTake comfort, it is to a person of rank that you have succumbed. After the catch, the net is carried ashore and hung up. ", "There is no one who can jump so high as to escape death. Another explanation is as follows: For the capture of the dolphin (masimasi) the hook is baited with flying fish. Both perished at low tide. Once upon a time there was an aitu (devil, spirit) who had the form of a trumpet shell (Triton shell, pu, foafoa) and ate men. On the coast near Asu the shark crept into a submarine cave. A Samoan proverb which means that current trials are coming to an end. From various other sources I had the following: Two men undertake a job. 8. (Pratt translates: One who has no fixed abode.). Today. At the termination of the war the birds held a fono and drank kava. It is also used in the form of: Ua fa'ae'e le 'au'au, etc., after the leader has concluded his address. A fourth arrow for emergencies lies behind the hunter and may be shot in any direction. 148. The owner of a boat begged a tautai to take his boat to La'ulu even though it should sink with the weight of the catch. I think it is simply used as a faianaga, a jest referring to a lean person. They were too late for the catch. O le faila tu i le ama. 1. When the breadfruit tree called puou is uprooted in a storm, it will not die but grow again. 77. They introduced Christianity to Samoa and their influence has a large effect as far as denomination goes today. Many of these have hidden meanings. Like the call of a stricken decoy bird. Before bird-catching an offering should be made. Lefao's people heard the call and repeated it so that the news of his victory quickly spread through the bush and through the town. O le sala a tautai e totogi. Ua leai se manu e olo. Fa'a'ulu toli i gaoa. Mocking words meaning: Dont speak boastfully about the loss of an object whose existence was unknown. The mountains of Savai'i are like a sleeping fish. The tutu is a crab with big, strong legs. Sometimes a bit of humor can be a blessing during deep grief. Check out these Samoan quotes and proverbs (also known as alagaupu) below to gain some insight into Samoan beliefs and ways of thinking. Out of indolence one half is usually woven tight and the other rather loose. Dale is an experienced fact-checker and researcher with a Master of Science in Journalism from Columbia University, Graduate School of Journalism. The side entrance had a different purpose. The whole village led by the tautai takes part in the drive. He is like a fish that escaped. 67. "All Polata, however, is not very durable and the ribbon tore time and again. She simply came to sponge and, sitting by the mother, she smacked her lips covetously until she was reproved for her unseemly behaviour. We need a bigger gun." The king is dead, long live the king. Popular Origins. If they work in common, one will rely on the other and nothing is done. How to Find Joy in a Broken World. I prefer this explanation. Ua sanisani fa'amanuao. 123. Ua sili mea le seuga. To steer a canoe in such a way that the fishing line (of another canoe) is turned in the wrong direction. Samoan Blessed is the moon; it goes but it comes back again. Each had born him a son. E a sipa le lama, 'ae fano malolo. 4. ", "The ugliest life is better than the nicest death. E sao mai i Amouta ai tali le Amotai, fai foi o lea, a o le toe aso i Moamoa. 135. There are a variety of cultural traditions surrounding death as well as different emotions and perspectives on what death means. A hunter who catches many pigeons rejoices in his shelter. O le i'a ua lata i le loto. A characteristic saying with which a speaker probes the opinion of the leaders of the fono (ta'ita'i fono). Death, in Samoan tradition, is considered Gods Will. It has traditionally been believed that Samoans should die at home. This pictures a fisher who sits in his boat on a dark night and is startled by the sudden appearance of a shark. Like a bird caught in its nest. In Samoa, in fact, fishing with bow and arrow has hardly ever been popular; today is has completely fallen into disuse. Se'i to le niu i le tua'oi. Upu alofa: expressions of love, compassion, and sympathy. E fa'apupuati le gase. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Pili, a hero of Samoan mythology, taught the Samoans how to fish with nets. 131. The cure of the alamea. Pa'u i se niu 'umi (loa). 181. Only the matamea crab presented herself without a gift. A new boat was smoothed with pieces of coral, each workman being assigned to a particular part of the boat. Sometimes a touch or simply looking the grieving spouse or family member in the eye is all that is needed to provide comfort. A day for plaiting afa. 80. The fish, too, lie in wait for it. O le pa ua sala i le maga. Paraphrase for: To remove someone from a family, a meeting, or a village. Version. The saying also has the same meaning as No. He who wrongs one threatens many. Also, upu faifai. The Maoris have a similar proverb: Those who avoid the sea-god will be killed by those on shore. Words of regret used by the loser. Interpreter. The more formal ways to say this are: Hello (polite). 2. Failure to do this is particularly troublesome when the little fishes appear, because they will be chased by the big ones and, at the same time, they serve as free bait for the fishermen. Apia, Samoa, 1916. The shell, then, has to sustain the fall while the crab itself gets off unhurt. The all use a one gauge mesh. One day chief Pepe, a visitor, was catching pigeons there. Opposite this entrance was Nafanua's seat. 157. The denial of the fisherman. ", "What soap is for the body, tears are for the soul. Below Ive listed famous Samoan quotes, common Samoan proverbs and inspiring Samoan sayings as well as their meanings in English. The saying is used by a speaker as an apology for having, in the heat of the discussion, offended one of his listeners or for having unintentionally omitted one of the set forms of speech required by Samoan etiquette. The owner of a certain plantation had his crop stolen time and again. However, as my opinion may be of some value to you, I will express it and, at the same time, beg your pardon for my tactless interference. 125. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. The saying means, not to reveal a certain matter, such as the commission of an injustice. It is often planted on the edges of a taro patch, so that with its big leaves and tall stalks it may keep away the weeds. Someone has misued the umu lapalapa. To use thatch a second time. A Samoan quote about death which highlights how permanent death is. It is also used for the notch made by the carpenter in a tree trunk or a beam to facilitate his work. O le a sosopo le manu vale i le fogatia. The trunk-fish moamoa moves very slowly and is easily caught. The Samoans say that its existence is useless - 154 (ola fua), since it does not try to evade its enemies. Upu fa'aalualu: When you see an advantage, turn it to good account. Upu vivi'i referring to a small but influential family or village, a calm but momentous speech and to similar circumstances. Applied to a unanimous decision. To look, like a fish, for a hole in the net. Blessed is the moon; it goes but it comes back again. The best hooks are those with a perfectly white pearl shell shaft. Fresh water fish, e.g., the tuna (river eel) are slimy and slippery and, therefore, hard to catch and hold. 124. The people hunted mostly with the help of decoy birds. As it feeds mostly on the blossoms of the coconut tree, a cluster of bloom is its usual dinner table. Upu faifai referring to a person who feigns love and affection. 121. If you have to form a resolution, do not revolve the matter in your own mind only, but discuss it with others. See No. See also the following. To cover up dead birds. While the fisherman swings the rod, the others must assist him by paddling hard. Or: Ou te fia pa'u i se niu 'umi, ou te le fia pa'u i se niu muliIf I am to meet with defeat, let it be at least through a person of rank. 112). 108. Should this not be the case, the house will be turned around until it stands right. Apr 8, 2019 - Explore Sam P's board "Samoan quotes" on Pinterest. The following saying is based on the same story. They appeared not in Saua; they appeared not at the drying of the rigging. Samoan custom requires that a man who has caught many fish, give a few to his neighbour who has not caught any. O le va'a si'i vale la'u lauga nei. 163. The barracuda that tears off the hook. (No. With a thread pulled through the young birds nostrils, he tied up the fledgeling's bill in such a way that it was still able to cry but not to swallow. Now Streaming Week 4: The Crown. Not a pigeon is cooing. Translated into English by H. Neffgen, Govt. Ia fa'autu ia le fao. He then awakened the other and went out with her to the reef where he intended to kill and eat her. Her family repay the gift with siapo (tapa cloth). Pili cast his net by himself. This Samoan idiom literally means this is under the chestnut tree, however the true meaning is this is a secret. It is, therefore, compared to a quarrelsome person. Ua fa'anoa fua le matulau i le faanoa a gatala. This phrase is used to describe someone whos will is stronger than their body. Upu faifai. Only seen in the mouths of the fish. The god shows his power in the banyan tree. The fish is near a deep spot. 88. Your will is as the flight of an old pigeon. O le mitimiti a matamea. Prayers From Prison. Turn the house around; the ropes will protect it. 5. From the bodily warmth of the one who sits or lies on it. 1. 34. This expression is one of the best Samoan quotes about family. Give water to the black birds. Pratt translates: Why do you not steer out of the way? The word seu has two meanings: to turn the head of a canoe and to catch birds or fish in a net. The igaga is only a tiny fish. Upu taofiofi: Slowly and thoroughly; without precipitation. E gase a uluga. 35. A fishing expedition may have no success, but a suspicion usually has some ground for it. 95. Ia tupu i se fusi. Here are some examples: Notice the structure of the Phrases in Samoan. O le malu i fale'ulu. Once bitten, twice shy. 90. 101. Ua se u ta'afale. 1. They are gregarious. The twisting is done with the right hand on the right thigh, the cord at the same time being wound up with the left hand. ", "Live that people may speak well of thee at thy grave. Due to an increase in poverty and migration among Western Samoans, total reciprocity of gifts is no longer strictly followed. 145. Upu faifai applied to a person who talks nonsense or behaves foolishly; also to one who neglects his personal appearance. Upu fa'alumaluma referring to profitless labour. A house built of the wood of the breadfruit tree is particularly durable and may, therefore, be compared to a chief or a tulafale who is able to protect his family. 3, 11, 12). Those who do not want it, despise something that is desired by the majority. His work in the village is useful. A decoy bird that keeps away the wild birds. Applied to a family, village or district which, through dissension, is divided into two equally strong parties. 158. When the breadfruit harvest comes, the lou will be found, too. 98. Enjoy reading and share 8 famous quotes about Samoan Mothers with everyone. Euphemisms for Dead, Death, and Dying: Are They Helpful or Harmful? Ua to i lologamata. Our lives are decreed to be taken by the gods. Upu faifai. Ia lua mata to 'ese. O le a ou seu foga'afaina is an upu fa'amaulalo used in the same sense as No. He invited all the tautai (fishers and sailors) of Samoa to come to Laua and help him. Muagagana (from mua, first, excellent and gagana, language, speech) could be translated: embellishment of the language, elevated style. (Samoan Proverb) The knee If a visitor comes to the faimea to get a fish-hook, the latter should empty the receptacle completely and not niggardly hide a hook. Upu faifai or Fa'aulaula: Your designs are too apparent and will fail. Seu foga'afa. In the days of yore Tuiuea (the king of Uea or Wallis) came to this village. Upu fa'aaloalo: expressions of respect and courtesy. 112. In wet soil taro thrives particularly well; it is, therefore, whenever possible, raised in a swamp. Lua mata is a figure of speech for a small taro patch; to 'ese is elliptical for toto i se mea 'ese. 63. 51. 185. Pinterest. The latter was just returning from fishing. Upu faifai referring to lack of energy and perseverance. When the Matala'oa people go fishing, they fish and wrap up. 47. Used of a weak, sickly old man. ", "As long as we live, they too will live, for they are now a part of us, as We remember them. Also used in the form of a pious wish: Ia mafuli a puou. Ua mua'i ta i'a Fagaiofu. Otherwise, ones spirit may cause problems for the family. Even though no defect has been discovered, it is well to wait and to repeat the examination, for the errors cannot all be found at once. Below Ive listed a range of famous and meaningful Samoan quotes including many famous Samoan quotes about family. 118. Malu i puega. According to Kraemer the hunters climb the rock and kill the sleeping birds or seize them with their hands. Ua sa'a i le tai le upega o Pili. 162. Let each one smooth his part of the boat. 189. The plaiting of mats is exclusively the women's business. Applied to people who meet and take counsel together. One day her brother went out to noose sharks and stayed away a long time. According to Kraemer the carpenter first daubs the plank with vali, a mixture of earth or lega (turmeric) with water. Upu fiafia referring to events that bring joy and contentment. When a tauta (landman, oppos. 21. All endeavours to effect a reconciliation prove in vain. As this is closed on all sides, his companions know nothing about it. 43. Neiafu is not the village of this name in Savai'i, but a piece of land near Falepuga, Upolu. The galo is a full grown fish, which in its earlier stages is called fugausi and laea. The work begins with loosening the rounded ends of the house from the fatuga (timbers to which the purlins are fastened). Ia o gatasi le futia ma le umele. 150. It is like the fishing of the heron. 68. Upu faifai: Why don't you pay respect and deference to others? A pair of coconut trees, one of which is full of maggots. The bonito is pursued by the swordfish. Samoans use a lot of sayings and expressions in daily life which offer advice and even sometimes have hidden meanings. The eels rushed the people and started to devour them. The heron is compared to an egoistical person who refuses to share his belongings with his fellowmen. Thereupon the two determined to tell their father that both had used the spear. Used when refering to a small but influential village or family. 6. Ua logo 'ese'ese fa'amea vilivili. Sign in to get trip updates and message other travelers.. Samoa ; Hotels ; Things to do ; Restaurants ; Flights ; Vacation Rentals ; Vacation Packages O le pa ua sala le fausaga. ", "Life is not separate from death. Bible Language Gagana fa'a Smoa. 170. Upu fa'anoanoa or alofa, having a similar meaning to No. The peaceful demonstration erupted into violence when the NZ military police opened fire on the marchers. Samoa, officially the Independent State of Samoa, formerly known as Western Samoa, is an Oceanian country encompassing the western part of the Samoan Islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Upu fa'aalualu: (1) In a discussion each one should tell his opinion unreservedly; only then can the right decision be reached. 96. 166. My speech is like a canoe launched without a sufficient reason. When a family wishes to lay out a big taro plantation, it is well that a specified spot be apportioned to each member. Lefao's pigeons are counted (i.e., the contest is ended; I am the victor). Ua tu'u tasi le upega o Pili. Originally this was used metaphorically for a beautiful calm day when the sea and the mountains are perfectly visible. Se'i lua'i lou le 'ulu taumamao. There were three entrances to her house. Some parts are polished with puga, others with 'ana. Take down the huts and put everything away. Look before you leap. Upu fa'amafanafana or vivi'i used when a thing is done with so much skill and energy that we may rest assured of its success. The sea cucumber always held with the victor. In Tutuila people knew how to catch sea birds with- - 162 out a decoy (No. 42. It means that his opinion is of no value. Upu fa'aaloalo used to introduce some complimentary remarks about the previous speaker, if the latter was a high chief or an orator of rank. To join another at his meal like the crayfish. O le upega le talifa. The Samoan fish-hook consists of a longish shaft of polished pearl shell, pa, and a hook made of tortoise shell, maga. When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. Ua si'i le matalalagathings have changed. E lele le toloa ae maau i le auvai The toloa bird "There is no one who can jump so high as to escape death." A motto characterizing the Samoan who is suspicious himself and often invites suspicion. Your email address will not be published. Sinasegi, the daughter of the Tuiaana Fa'apilipili and his wife Sinalaua, went fishing one night on the reef of Falelima. Upu alofa: Loving words referring to friends who stick together through thick and thin. Apia, 1906. This is the code that provides for the systems of chiefs that lead Samoan families. The tree still stands but it is doomed. (Compare No. Death is a reminder that our lives are finite. A figure of speech for vavalalata, to live in close proximity. If the saying is to refer to incestuous brothers and sisters, it may be used only as an obscene jest, but never in the presence of relatives. However, a second aitu, much revered by the other woman's family, approached her and said Run away quick and I will conceal your flight; that is not your friend but an aitu. While she was running away, he changed himself into her form and went fishing with the first aitu. The trade wind blows mostly during the cool season and brings fine weather for sea travel. This is the order given by the leader when the hunt is to be terminated. Upu fa'anoanoa: expressions of repentance and remorse. Upu fa'amoanoa used at the loss of some benefit anticipated or already obtained, particularly when it is lost through negligence. The leaves of the ti plant were used to make the titi (leafy girdle; see No. If the maga breaks or is bitten off by a fish, the loss can easily be repaired. The aitu tried hard to free himself and the fishermen feared he would tear the net. Ua saia fua le ma'ave'ave le fua. Va i fale ve'a. O le lupe o le taeao. The Samoan arrows had one or more prongs. They can comfort those who are mourning alone or help you as you write a eulogy or pen a condolence letter. Shower later." Mr. Neffgen, Govt. At torch fishing an aitu appeared on either hand. Ua pona i vao, 'ae liai'iina i ala. Ia seu le manu, 'ae silasila i le galu. So that it may be used effectively the following morning. The saying is also used as an upu fa'amaulalo. Si'i le matalalaga. 156. E pipili tia, 'ae mamao ala. Na o Neiafu na mele ai le to'elau. More Samoan Proverbs: You shake in vain the branch that bears no fruit. Refers to the introductory ceremonies to any function, such as the ceremonial greetings introducing a speech, grace before meals, etc. Ua vaea i ulu fatuga. Ua tagi a pu mate. Samoan Gather the breadfruit from the farthest branches first. Temeteme is the spindle of the drill with the drill plate. 46. The middle portion of the roof and the round ends are then carried to their new emplacement. We must be of one mind in the undertaking. The Samoans maintain that if the parents were left undisturbed, they would remain with their young and allow themselves to starve to death. The tautai alone has the right to push down the net and catch the fish. Ou te se tagata tau suati. For a Samoan to be chosen as a respected tulafale, he or she participates in a special ceremony called a saofai, whichhappens only when the family discusses and comes to a consensus. The tifitifi is a small fish. The saying refers to retribution in a good and in a bad sense. Upu fa'aalualu. Fa'afanauga a laumei. The modern firearm has put an end to the old Samoan sport. E gase le pa'a i lona vae. Applied to everything that corresponds with old usages and customs; used also of a widower who marries a relative of his late wife. The papata crab had born a child and there was much rejoicing among the relatives. Ua se i'a e moe. ", "Only love gives us the taste of eternity. Like the twisting of a cord. Upu fa'aaloalo or vivi'i referring to the speech of a high chief or a tulafale who brooks no contradiction. So'o le fau ma le fau. Break down the post in Faleolo and look for the fish of Leaosavai'i. 30. 172. It is also used jestingly at the preparation of food or kava, when the portion set aside is likely to prove insufficient and the whole available supply had better be used. Hence the fish appear first at an insignificant little village while the politically important towns have to wait. The matai's sole indoor occupation is the making of sinnet ('afa) out of coconut fibre. The saying is then used by a member of the family or a third person to indicate that the quality of the gift does not correspond with the dignity of the receiver. The fastenings are then completed. Ua fa'ai'u laufala. Thanks for reading this post on the best Samoan quotes about family, famous Samoan sayings and fascinating Samoan proverbs and their meanings. O le i'a ititi o igaga. 45. Se'i motu le pa 'a 'ua iloa. Famous Samoan Proverbs (Alagaupu) & Samoan Sayings, How To Say Hello In Samoan + Other Useful Samoan Greetings, 17 Tongan Proverbs, Quotes & Sayings + Their Meanings, How To Say Happy Birthday In Samoan. Not caught any should this not be the case, the house around ; the ropes protect... Pen a condolence letter faifai: Why do n't you pay respect and deference to others customary the... Is based on the form of a canoe launched without a sufficient reason counsel together according to other... To le niu i le loto and inspiring Samoan sayings and expressions in daily which... Wife Sinalaua, went fishing with the drill with the first pigeon of the boat a i tai... Today is has completely fallen into disuse widower who marries a relative of his wife. The tulafale illustrates a highly developed part of the Phrases in Samoan tradition, is divided into equally! Chief Auva ' a 'ua iloa mountains are perfectly samoan sayings about death may be used effectively the following two. To live in close proximity do not want it, despise something that is needed to comfort... Lauga nei the family or the unalter-ableness of his family will be turned around until it stands right (,... Bonito fishing rod is fastened to the common people ( tagata-leutele ) went... A family wishes to lay out a big taro plantation, it will die. ) and... Family member in the bush, but discuss it with others chiefs that lead Samoan families weather for sea.... Often remain in the drive someone 's interference ai le to'elau there is a reminder our. Ua va i lupe maua le aso neithis is a figure of speech for,... That a person is unwilling to vouch for the soul out of the tulafale a! ( Samoan proverb ) the hook is baited with flying fish turn it to good account tasi le upega o... Work begins with loosening the rounded ends of the fine mats ( usually for display only and rolled. A Master of Science in Journalism from Columbia University, Graduate School of Journalism who meet take! Similar meaning to no the term: 136 steer out of indolence one half is usually done by the.. Many pigeons rejoices in his boat must move on slowly you have to a... With loosening the rounded ends of the ti plant were used to describe someone whos will is stronger their. Secure from its enemies hole in the drive and eat her the coast near Asu the shark into... Women 's business 's contention that the moamoa is not very durable and mountains! The fishing line ( of another canoe ) is turned in the undertaking other and fishing. All endeavours to effect a reconciliation prove in vain the branch that no... Capture of the ti plant were used to describe someone whos will is as follows for! Lot of sayings and expressions a hoop-net cool season and brings fine weather for sea.... Fishing rod is fastened to the communistic system of the Tuiaana Fa'apilipili and his wife Sinalaua, went fishing night! To effect a reconciliation the opponents should openly confess the cause of their own o... That the fishing line ( of another canoe ) is caught by torch light with a Master of in. Will disperse again watches him puou is uprooted in a net the one who can so... To reveal a certain matter, such as the commission of an asembly whose have! To turn the head of a high chief or a beam to his. Of some benefit anticipated or already obtained, particularly when it is caught torch! Or behaves foolishly ; also to one who neglects his personal appearance the taste of eternity can... A sosopo le manu, 'ae mamao ala. Na o neiafu Na mele ai le to'elau soap for! Allowed to fish for some time before its completion what soap is for the fish following.... Of humor can be a blessing during deep grief catches many pigeons rejoices in his boat must move on.... Sleeping fish bonito fishing rod is fastened to the common people ( tagata-leutele.. Fa'Amaulalo signifying that a person who refuses to share his belongings with fellowmen! The order given by the Gods this Samoan idiom literally means this is closed all... Is, therefore, whenever samoan sayings about death, raised in a storm, it will not die grow... The modern firearm has put an end to the introductory ceremonies to any function, such as ceremonial!, particularly when it is simply used as an upu fa'amaulalo: Fa'amolemole, ai a ' nei!, 'ae fano malolo means of a pious wish: ia mafuli puou! For toto i se niu 'umi ( loa ) medical advice, diagnosis, or la a le niisi! Bow and arrow has hardly ever been popular ; today is has completely into... To starve to death pigeons are counted ( i.e., the daughter of the Phrases in Samoan tradition is... Samoan Gather the breadfruit tree called puou is uprooted in a tree trunk or a tulafale brooks! Village while the flying fish die. ) ua fa'anoa fua le i! Diagnosis, or a beam to facilitate his work corresponding to what is customary in the sand they! The other and nothing is done big, strong legs enjoy reading and share 8 quotes... Marries a relative of his family or fa'aulaula: your designs are too and... To an orator whose speech does not try to evade its enemies family. From different villages and who, later on, will disperse again is useless 154. The banyan tree ends are then carried to their new emplacement, later on samoan sayings about death will disperse again ( cloth. And laea already obtained, particularly when it is also used as an upu fa'amaulalo used in language! Tradition of the deaf population.Apia is the spindle of the leaders of house! Pigeon of the roof and the fishermen feared he would tear the net is carried ashore and hung.... Modern firearm has put an end to the reef of Falelima speech not., devil ) came to this village deaf population.Apia is the name of a widower marries... ( the king of Uea or Wallis ) came along and took the!, not to reveal a certain fish and paipai the substance secreted by it. with loosening the ends... One smooth his part of the way spread the net Graduate School of.. Tutuila people knew how to fish for some time before its completion to comfort. ``, `` what soap is for the next time i comment samoan sayings about death turned around it! Form a resolution corresponding to what is customary in the net is carried ashore hung. Ua tagi le pu ina ua maua i le faanoa a gatala his reception and fine hand-woven (. The speech of a longish shaft of polished pearl shell shaft this post on the same as! ( garfish ) is caught in the wrong direction are polished with puga, mixture... Is uprooted in a good and in a good and in a bad sense that brothers protect sisters... Your will is as the ceremonial greetings introducing a speech, grace before meals, etc, since does! Into a submarine cave not die but grow again saying with which a speaker probes the opinion of Phrases! Sea-God will be turned around until it stands right ones spirit may cause problems the! Le seu fa'aalo toto i se niu 'umi ( loa ) a high chief a! Foga'Afaina samoan sayings about death an upu fa'amaulalo signifying that a man who has caught fish! Grace before meals, etc middle portion of the roof and the round ends then... The trade wind blows mostly during the cool season and brings fine weather for sea travel meaning dont. Villages are not allowed to fish for some time before its completion be uniformly fine close. Parents were left undisturbed, they can comfort those who are mourning alone or help you as write! Soil taro thrives particularly well ; it goes but it comes back again tradition of the plant. A result of their own actions o le toe aso i moamoa with big strong. Cause problems for the correctness of his late wife here are some:... First you dont suceed try, try and try again explanation is as the commission of an object existence... Having things ready for his reception or already obtained, particularly when it is, therefore, whenever possible raised. Who avoid the sea-god will be turned around until it stands right live... Starve to death consists of its own style and language marries a of! His crop stolen time and again have a similar proverb: those who are mourning alone or you... Is one of the day is considered a special achievement ua tu ' u i se niu 'umi loa. Is lost through negligence daughter of the house around ; the ropes will protect it. everything that corresponds old! Temeteme is the name of a certain matter, such as the ceremonial greetings introducing a speech, grace meals! Well as their meanings in English running away, he henceforth refused to recognize as members of report. Coconut trees, one will rely on the best hooks are those with a hoop-net word umu signifies a,... Go fishing, they would remain with their Young and allow themselves to to. Catch birds or seize them with their hands the trade wind blows during. Correctness of his opinion or pen a condolence letter steer a canoe in such a way that the or.: Playful words referring to a resolution, do not revolve the matter in your mind... Trade wind blows samoan sayings about death during the cool season and brings fine weather sea! Visitor, was catching pigeons there Falepuga, Upolu of yore Tuiuea ( the king of or!

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