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Tongan Folktales

Moral and humorous tales reflecting Tongan values and seafaring life.
An illustration of the three Tongan gods Tangaloa, Maui, and Hikule‘o shaping the heavens, earth, and Pulotu.

The Tale of Hikule‘o, Tangaloa, and Maui: Tongan Folktale

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November 5, 2025
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Long ago, before there were islands, seas, or stars, there existed only vast darkness and the sacred nothingness known to the gods. Out of this great silence arose three divine siblings, Tangaloa, Maui, and Hikule‘o, born of the first powers that breathed life into the cosmos. Their bond was woven with light and shadow, for through them the universe would be divided
An illustration of Maui pouring sand into the ocean as Hinahengi rises from the deep, Tongan folktale.
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The Origin of the Sea Tides

In the time before time, when the gods still walked among men and the world was young, the sea lay silent and still. Its surface shone like a mirror, unbroken by wave or wind. Fish drifted lazily in the depths, and the shores of Tonga rested peacefully, kissed only by

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