TAPU - or taboo - is a concept that is deeply rooted in many Polynesian cultures. It can be found in the culture of the Fiji Islanders, the Māori in Aotearoa - New Zealand, the Samoans, the Rapanui (inhabitants of the Easter Island), the Tahitian, the Hawaiian and the Tongan. In the Hawaiian language, a similar concept is referred to as "kapu".
TAPU stands for something sacred or consecrated that is accompanied by "spiritual restriction" or "implicit prohibition". In simpler terms, these are rules and prohibitions that often have spiritual or cultural significance.
In the Māori tradition and on Tonga, tapu (Māori) or tabu (Tonga, Easter Island) describes something sacrosanct, inviolable and holy. Places or things that are considered tapu may not be touched or visited. In some cases, it is even forbidden to speak about the tapu.
This concept often serves to protect vital resources and the environment. On Easter Island, for example, fish and lobster fishing is regulated by tapu rules, especially during the spawning season, in order to preserve biodiversity.
The German word "Tabu" (English: taboo) has its origins in this Polynesian term and its meaning. The term was first documented by James Cook in 1777 after his visit to Tonga and also found its way into the German language at the beginning of the 20th century.
Today, TAPU on Easter Island has not only retained its traditional significance, but has also gained new relevance. It remains a living example of respectful interaction with nature and the community.
