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Tagaloa : The Supreme God

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At a glance

Description
Origin Polynesian Mythology
Classification Gods
Family Members Moa (Son), Lu (Daughter)
Region Samoa
Associated With Creation, Supreme Powers

Tagaloa

Introduction

In Samoa, the deity known as Tagaloa is regarded as the creator of the universe and the head of all gods. He is also believed to have created nine different Heavens. According to the people, he lived in space and made the various elements of the sky, land, sea, and trees. After he made the islands, humans evolved from worms. From 1830, the Christian and missionary presence in Samoa led to the removal of some of the Atua gods, such as Tagaloa.

Physical Traits

It is believed that Tagaloa bore the same physical characteristics that is seen of modern Samoans and other Polynesians. He is believed to be strong and well set having a flat nose, strong shoulders and a belly.

Family

According to a legend, Tagaloa had two children: a son known as Moa and a daughter known as Lu who in turn also had a son named Lu. The little Lu once argued with his uncle Moa and he fled to Earth and called it Samoa. Other legends tell us that Tagaloa is also the father of the gods Losi and Alo’alo who married Tuifiti’s daughter, Sina. In a different story, a legend about a figure known as Tui Fiti states that Tagaloa lived on a remote island in Savai’i.

Powers and Abilities

Tagaloa is the supreme creator god and has ultimate powers over all that is present in the universe. At the beginning of the universe, there were only the waters and the sky. When he looked down from the sky, Tagaloa thought about creating a resting place on the Earth. He then constructed a rock known as Manu’atele. He was very pleased with how he made the rock and he divided it into various pieces so that it could serve as stepping stones.

From the pieces of rock, he created various islands such as Samoa, Upolu, Fiji, and Savai’i. After he finished building all of these islands, he went back to Samoa. He then placed a rock halfway between the two islands, and it was named “Tutuila.”

Modern Day Influence

In the past, Samoa only used oral language. Instead of using written words, their ancestors would talk to their children through oral communication allowing them to keep the past alive. This was believed to have led to the strong cultural value associated with Tagaloa and the various myths of the region still having a strong bond despite the Christianisation of the Islands in the past few centuries.

Rise of popular Hollywood stars of Samoan heritage like Jason Momoa and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson who proudly flaunt their ancestry and reggae artist J Boog who has become a Tik Tok sensation have succeeded in popularising Tagaloa and other Gods of the region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the most powerful Samoan god?

Tangaloa is the most powerful Samoan god. He is associated with the sky, heavens, and creation. He created the earth and living things. Tangaloa is the supreme being in Samoan mythology.

What is the story of the creation of Tagaloa?

Tangaloa, the most powerful Samoan god, is a primordial being. There isn’t a specific creation story for him. He is associated with the creation of the world and the universe. Tangaloa is a complex and multifaceted deity.

Is Moa the son of Tagaloa?

Moa is not the son of Tangaloa. Moa is the Samoan god of the moon and underworld, while Tangaloa is the supreme being. Both are powerful deities with distinct roles, but they may interact in certain stories or rituals.

What is Tagaloa the god of?

Tangaloa is the supreme Samoan god. He is associated with the sky, heavens, creation, life, and protection. He is a powerful and benevolent deity.

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WRITTEN BY:

Nitten Nair is a mythology enthusiast, researcher, and TEDx speaker who brings global myths and legends to life through engaging content on Mythlok. With a passion for exploring both well-known and obscure myths, Nitten delves into the cultural and symbolic meanings behind ancient stories. As the creator of Mythlok, he combines storytelling with deep research to make mythology accessible and relevant to modern audiences. Nitten also shares his insights through podcasts and videos, making him a trusted voice for mythology lovers and scholars alike.

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