We live through uncertain times, where we need protection more than ever (and wisdom).
In Polynesian cultures, there are several symbols that relate to protection, and we'll list here the 7 most commonly seen in tattooing: manaia, taniwha, tiki, lizard, woven mat, malu, and shark teeth
Manaia
The Manaia is a mythological creature in Maori culture, typically depicted with the head of a bird, the body of a man, and the tail of a fish. This form symbolizes power over every element: air, earth, and water.
It is often shaped in a side view like an eight figure, which is reminiscent of a sea horse (one Maori word for sea horse is manaia). It is considered a messenger between the material world and the world of spirits and symbolizes protection from evil, much like a guardian angel.
It's common practice to depict the manaia with three fingers to symbolize harmony between sky, land, and sea.
Taniwha
In Maori mythology, Taniwha are beings living in deep pools of rivers, dark caves, or the sea, especially where dangerous currents are present. They possess a dual nature:
- They can be powerful protective guardians (kaitiaki) of people and places.
- They can be dangerous, predatory beings who punish those who disrespect sacred places.
You can read more about taniwha in a dedicated article: Polynesian tattoo symbols - Taniwha.
Tiki
A Tiki represents a divine being. It can be a god, or an ancestor who achieved demigod status due to their achievements and authority. Tiki figures are often associated with protection against misfortune and bad spirits.
While they can be included as a full figure, it's often just the face, or even parts like the eye, the ear, or the nostrils, that are woven into tattoos to symbolize alertness and protection.
More information and examples can be found in this previous article: Polynesian tattoo symbols - Tiki.
Lizard (Mo'o / Moko)
Lizards (Mo'o or moko) are powerful creatures throughout Polynesia. They are believed to bring good luck, communicate with the gods, and access the invisible world. Conversely, they can bring death and bad omens to the disrespectful.
In Maori culture, they are often regarded as guardians. A carved lizard was sometimes placed on house walls or buried near new homes to keep away disease and evil spirits.
Woven Mat
This symbol refers to the woven mats and capes Polynesians used to protect themselves from blows during combat. The motif used in tattooing to represent these mats consists of crossing lines in a braid style or in checkered patterns, such as those seen in the Marquesan traditional breastplate of chiefs.
Malu
Malu is usually translated as shield or shelter. It is the name of the traditional Samoan female tattoo, and it originates from the main element tattooed on the back of a woman's knee. It represents the four walls of the home, symbolizing the protection they provide for the family.
Shark teeth are a classic symbol of protection in water, originating from legends like the Hawaiian story of a woman whose shark aumakua (ancestral spirit) protected her.
More information about shark teeth as a tattoo symbol can be found in this previous article: Polynesian tattoo symbols - Shark teeth.
The aumakua are deified ancestors who achieved a high status after death. They return in the shape of an animal to assist, guide, and protect their kin. Every family treasures and respects this special bond with their own specific spirit animals.
We also have a FREE ebook with 28 protective Polynesian tattoos.
You can download it right here for more inspiration and ideas:
