Orators Must Know Historical Significance

Te Ao Hou, March 1966, Page 12

Orators Must Know Historical Significance Then the mat is formally displayed in front of all the houses in the village, and also on the malae (this word is the equivalent of our Maori marae). It is then taken to the high chiefs and orators of the village, to be given a name. After innumerable discussions they agree upon a suitable historical name, and this is duly announced to all the matai (heads of families), who in turn pass the message on to other interested families or persons. Usually these historical names are only memorized, but sometimes they are also recorded in written form.

The orators (‘talking chiefs’) are spokesmen for the high chiefs (ali'i—this word is the equivalent of our Maori ariki). These orators strive hard to acquire knowledge of the historical events which lie behind the names given to the fine mats, for it is their task, on behalf of their ali'i, to recount these histories when the high chief is being presented with one of these mats. (Incidentally the high chief does not speak at functions unless there is some controversy. Then, and only then, does he show his authority by placing his hand upon the top of his head, and pronouncing the final decision. The matter is thus finalised.) If the orator is unable to retell the historical event which gave its name to a certain mat, he embarrasses his ali'i, his family and his villagers. Furthermore that mat is not presented to the ali'i. However the rewards for an orator are numerous, and may consist of food, money, fine mats and ‘ava sticks. (The roots of the ‘ava sticks are pounded to make the ceremonial ‘ava drink. This is known elsewhere in the Pacific as kava.)