Guardian of the Moon: Exploring Hina’s Influence with Vairea Tessier

Embracing Polynesian Female Archetypes

Inspired by the narrative of our latest Resort 24 Collection: “A Gift to The Goddess Within”, our editorial team has delved deeper into exploring the profound feminine archetypes that grace the myths and legends of Polynesia. Within these timeless tales lies the embodiment of the Sacred Feminine, empowering and inspiring women across generations. Alongside us is Vairea Tessier, a custodian of cultural wisdom whose insights illuminate the significance of these archetypes in shaping the vibrant tapestry of today’s Polynesian culture.

Vairea Tessier: Guardian of Cultural Wisdom

We have been honoured to meet with Vairea Tessier, a cultural mediator with 15 years of experience in Polynesian archaeology. She was responsible for setting up the ethnobotanical gardens. She took part in the constitution of the editorial content for the new museum “Musée de Tahiti et des iles”: Te fare Iamanaha”.

Through her unique perspective, we gained insights into the essence of Sacred Femininity, defined as “the interconnected chain of women in genealogical lines who have played a vital role in transmitting knowledge and skills across all aspects of life.”

The “Demi-gods”

Polynesian feminine archetypes, originally humans, ascended to deity status due to their societal significance. Referred to as ‘demi-gods’ by Vairea, these revered figures showcase distinct personalities magnified in myths, with varying cultural interpretations like Tahitian ‘Pere’ contrasting Hawaiian views. They embody humanity and extraordinary abilities, uniting cultures while remaining relatable to all.

Hina: Guardian of Civilization and Nature

Hina, revered as the goddess of the moon in Polynesian mythology, holds a profound significance as both the guardian of civilization and nature. Central to her mythological narrative is her role in guiding humanity through significant transitions, such as the symbolic act of wrapping newborns in tapa cloth to signify their evolution into civilized humans.

Additionally, Hina is depicted as a skilled navigator, embarking on exploratory voyages across the Pacific alongside her brother Rū. Known by various epithets like Hina-i-faauru-vaa (Hina who watches over the canoes) and Hina-i-aa-te-marama (Hina who entered the moon), her journey to the moon solidifies her status as a celestial guardian, ensuring the safe passage of navigators through various symbols and rituals.

Moreover, Hina’s influence extends to the propagation of “ora” seeds, or Banyan Tree seeds, on Earth, facilitated by her favored bird, the ”u’upa” or the wild green pigeon. This act, intertwined with the creation of islands, embodies the essence of creation itself, highlighting Hina’s vital role in shaping the natural world.

Vairea’s deep admiration for Hina underscores the profound impact of her legacy, from bestowing humanity upon individuals to shaping the fabric of Polynesian society. Hina’s enduring influence resonates as a timeless testament to the interconnectedness between humanity, nature, and the divine.

“In a community, creating a livable environment requires people who contribute to sustainability and who give meaning to life, forming the bedrock of a civilization—a stage of advanced social and cultural development and organisation.”

Harnessing the Wisdom of the Moon: Hina’s Teachings

Through Hina’s guidance, individuals gain insights into the cyclical rhythms of the natural world, which contribute to the flourishing of both terrestrial and aquatic realms.

The TARENA lunar calendar of the Tahitians stands as a testament to the intricate knowledge woven around the Moon, serving as a great tool that enables Polynesians to thrive amidst vast ocean expanses. As they meticulously observe the Moon’s teachings, humans assimilate invaluable insights that transcend mere empirical knowledge, culminating in a profound understanding that verges on the mystical.

Coexistence with Nature

In the tranquil moments of each dawn, Vairea finds solace, immersing herself in the symphony of nature unfolding before her. “Every morning I sit by the Hotu tree and contemplate the first lights of the day… getting a more accurate sensation of my role…”

Amidst a changing world, Vairea advocates for deepening our communion with nature—a sacred duty that transcends individual interests. “The call to deepen our communion with Nature is paramount,” she emphasizes, “urging a concerted effort to acquire knowledge through attentive observation and perpetual vigilance, affirming our interconnectedness with the environment and paving the way for a harmonious coexistence with the natural world.”

Reviving Hina’s Influence: A Quest for Self-Discovery

Hina is a timeless sentinel in the cosmic space and continues to watch over humanity with infinite kindness. Drawing parallels between her identity and Hina’s wisdom, Vairea underscores the need for temperance and gentleness that Hina instils among all the notions and concepts she embodies.

In this poignant moment of reflection, Vairea’s reverence for Hina’s enduring essence finds expression in a heartfelt declaration: “AUE MAMA HINA E! E MEA NEHENEHE INO ROA ‘OE…” (Oh Mother Hina! How magnificent you are…)

In embracing Hina’s teachings and Vairea’s insights, we embark on a journey of harmony and interconnectedness with all living beings inspired by the timeless wisdom that permeates the natural world.

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Stay tuned for more inspiring stories as we delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Polynesian culture and its enduring legacy of female archetypes!