This week, we explore the spiritual concepts and totemic aspects of the Tikina Deuba community, following an earlier discussion about its first inhabitants.
In traditional Fijian belief, local ancestor-spirits, known as vu, serve as influential gods rather than widely recognized deities. Each yavusa has its own vu, which primarily concerns the welfare of its respective group. Despite the common origin of these spirits from Nakauvadra, descended from mythical figures Lutunasobasoba or Degei, they hold less significance in the everyday religious life of the community than the local vu.
William Robert Geddes highlights in his book “Deuba: A Study of a Fijian Village” that while these foundational figures represent a prestigious rank, their influence pales in comparison to that of the vu. The distinction between vu and Kalou vu is notable in ancient Fijian religious practices. A vu is considered the earthly founder of a yavusa, while Kalou vu is viewed as a largely spiritual entity, potentially never having existed in physical form.
In Deuba, the vu for the Yavusa Dravuni is known as Gusu i Delana, recognized for his unique feature of having a mouth atop his head. The vu manifests in three distinct forms: as a flying ant (kadi vuka), a sound associated with the Kikau tree, and through dreams. The sighting of the flying ant is significant primarily to the priestly mataqali, whereas the Kikau reveals the vu’s presence at night, though it can be killed without restriction due to its lack of food value. Dreams, particularly experienced by clan leaders, are another means through which the vu communicates.
An instance mentioned in Geddes’ book describes how the vu visited the Tui Dravuni during a troubling period, ultimately reassuring him about his son’s safety. The community believes the vu to be protective of those involved in Fijian military efforts, especially after the Kikau went silent for a period.
While contemporary influences have shifted away from worshiping these spirits due to church and government regulations, the belief in the vu endures in various cultural practices, including yaqona ceremonies. There are rumors that the priestly mataqali still engages in some rites associated with the vu.
The article also touches on the totemic aspects prevalent in Fijian traditional religion, which include specific food, fish, and trees as sacred symbols. In Deuba, the totems are Sawaqa (plantains), Vuvula (a type of fish), and Makosoi (a fragrant shrub). There are strict prohibitions against uttering the names of these totems, particularly in the presence of women from the yavusa, as failing to do so could lead to a humorous but severe reaction.
Even as traditions evolve, the significance of totems retains a deep-rooted connection to cultural identity. Despite the potential for lightheartedness surrounding breaches of taboo, respect for these practices persists, illustrating the complex interplay of tradition and modernity within the Deuban community.
This exploration represents a continuation of the story that began on September 30, with further details to follow next week.