Fijian Ancient Chiefly Funeral & Burial Ceremony Dec 2011 - Fiji (South Pacific)

Dec 1, 2011 - In the South Pacific islands of Fiji, a deceased Chieftain or person of equivalent ranking and stature, is hand buried just as their ancient ancestors did many thousands of years ago. Without modern tools, male members of the clan from the mother's side, must carry and bury the deceased according to ancient Fijian tradition using only their hands and clam shells as shovels. The coffin is first wrapped in colourful mats handmade with coconut leaves by each of the island's families, then lowered into the hand dug grave before ceremony. This video was made with the permission of the current Chief, who wanted to share this with the new generation of young Fijians and outsiders who would not normally be allowed to view these proceedings, for both education and prosperity. Unlike anywhere else in the world, the native Fijian people have adapted their ancient beliefs and traditions, into a single living culture that respects and practices its past in an increasingly modern world. (C) 2011, Lance Seeto, may not be reproduced or used without permission from the author

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Ceremony (song)
• Ceremony
• funeral
• fiji
• Fijian Language
• burial
• native
• solevu
• ancient
• South Pacific
• Oceania

[TheGoldenEyedboy]

What are they doing to the casket and body,all those people

[seetolance]

@TheGoldenEyedboy - the Fijian warriors are wrapping the coffin in hand-woven, coconut leaf mats - a symbolic totem for a Fijian Chief. The body is then buried by hand - no modern tools.

[FijiGrl679]

why would u upload this to youtube? this is a sacred burial, a chief is being buried here? the general public is usually closed off from such events and here u are uploading it to youtube?. Have some manners and decency and remove this video. The young ones can ask an elder/parents or relatives if they want to learn about this.

YOU HAVE NO RIGHT EXPOSING OUR SACRED TRADITIONS.