A. Sutherland- AncientPages.com – The Maori people have a rich tradition of storytelling, which they use to pass down legends and tales from one generation to the next.
These stories often feature mythical creatures, celestial bodies, elements of nature, themes of war, and the pantheon of Maori gods.
Among these deities is Tāne Mahuta, the god associated with trees and forests. While Tāne is recognized as a Polynesian deity, he holds significant importance in Maori mythology specifically.
He is one of seventy children of the first parents – Rangi (god of the sky) and Papa (Papatuanuku, goddess of the Earth). Maori Legends tell us that Rangi and Papa embraced each other all the time, protecting their children in their arms.
Tane Mahuta, the oldest of siblings, tired of living in total darkness between his mighty sky father and earth mother, decided to help them and push their parents apart to create the world of light (Te Ao Marama) we live in today.
Asked by Io, the Supreme Being, Tane travels through the twelve heavens to retrieve the knowledge that will guide human existence on Earth.
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See also:
Ginnungagap From Which The World, Gods, Humanity And All Life Emerged In Norse Beliefs
Legend: Strange Encounter With The Fairies In The Land Of The Light
Michabo (Michabou) – Algonquins’ Great Spirit With Power Over The Earth
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