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Angie asked in Society & CultureEtiquette · 4 years ago

What's the meaning behind that Polynesian gesture where two people touch foreheads?

I know it's a common cultural thing in Hawaii and New Zealand (I think it's called a "ha" in Hawaii and "hongi" in New Zealand) but I never quite got the meaning. Is it something to do with spiritual stuff or is it just a simple way of greeting someone like a handshake? I think it looks nice so I'd like to learn more about it. Also, are Hawaii and New Zealand the only Polynesian countries this is done in or is it a thing in other countries like Samoa and Fiji? Thank you in advance for your help!

1 Answer

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    Lv 7
    4 years ago
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    It's a way of recognising the divine in the other person. It's similar in thought behind the placing one's palms together and saying Namaste. Yes, this greeting is done in other Polynesian islands and countries such as Tahiti.

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