The circle & the Marae atea
(from the Journal of Polynesian Society Volume 108 1999 > Volume 108, No. 4 'Marae and implications for a modern Maori psychology', by Mason Durie, p 351-366)
The shape of a marae is often like a rectangle or square, but the movements and symbolism which bring life to the physical form have a stronger resemblance to a circle.
- communication between hosts (tangata whenua) and guests (manuhiri) reflect a circular pattern:
- whether the custom is for speakers from one group to speak immediately after each other before listening to speakers on the other side, or for speakers to alternate, a circular relationship is established. In a systematic way it includes all speakers, usually finishing near where it started.
- often the order in which orators stand to speak also suggests a circle, starting from the very first speaker and moving around to the last. By then the marae itself has been encircled.
The existence of a circle can also be demonstrated by the custom of koha.
- After speeches, visitors to a marae have the opportunity to recognise the significance of the occasion by publicly placing a gift, koha (usually money these days), on the marae. If the hosts agree that it is indeed a significant occasion, then the gift will be retrieved in a similarly formal manner. The nature of koha is less about the generosity of the donor than about the obligations placed on the receiver.
Reciprocity is an integral part of Māori custom and philosophy and continues to guide thinking and interaction in contemporary times. The philosophical framework does not conceptualise encounters as acts of linear purpose; the pattern is circular and understandings evolve from the creation of orbits rather than the projection of solitary missions.
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