Matai (Samoan title)
Matai is the traditional title of the head ( chief ) of a Samoan extended family or a family clan ( ʻaiga ) within the Matai system (Faʻamatai). Men and women from the family association can be elected to Matai. 'Matai' roughly means 'boss' in Samoan .
As the head of the family, the Matai is responsible for all concerns of his family. He settles disputes within the family and represents them in external matters. However, he is also liable for offenses committed by his family.
Since every Samoan village consists of several extended families, the Matai represent their families at village meetings. During these meetings, a. So-called village laws were also passed, which regulate life in the village association. The village chief is also elected from among the Matai , usually for life.
A Matai can be removed from his office if he is no longer able to exercise it for health or age reasons. However, he keeps his Matai title. This is only revoked in the event of serious misconduct such as murder or rape, which is a great shame for the person and their family .
See also
literature
- Gerda Kroeber : The Matai system in Samoa. Reconstruction of its traditional characteristics and analysis of its resistance to acculturation pressure. Berlin, 1976. Freie Univ., Faculty 11 - Philosophy a. Sozialwiss., Diss., 1975.
- Werner Hennings: Status and Power in Samoa. The Matai system and the dialectic of take and give. Bielefeld University, Bielefeld 1993.
- Sabine Bruno, Anette Schade: Fiji, Samoa, Tonga. Beck, Munich 1993, ISBN 3-406-35175-1 .