What do Samoans do when a family member dies?

Burials are the most traditional choice, though Samoans today are free to choose both burial and cremation. Traditionally, it was important for the family to bury the body within a day of death. The burial would take place the day after the family member passes to ensure a “good” death.

What is a Samoan funeral called?

The practice of fa’aaloaloga fa’asamoa (reciprocated gifting) is a significant process within death and mourning occasions for Samoan people everywhere (Seiuli, 2016).

How do Samoans view death?

Death, in Samoan tradition, is considered “God’s Will.” It has traditionally been believed that Samoans should die at home. Otherwise, one’s spirit may cause problems for the family. Before the advancement of mortuary science there, the deceased was buried the day after death.

What are Samoan funerals like?

The funeral service is typically at a church and involves a lot of praying and singing. Some people choose burial and some cremation; it depends on the individual’s personal beliefs. Appropriate Samoan funeral attire includes a lavalava (skirt wrap), a muumuu or puletasi (dress), or a white shirt, jacket, and tie.

What are the Samoan beliefs?

Religion. Samoans traditionally had a pantheistic religion, where family elders would perform most rituals. Missionaries introduced Christianity in the country in the early 19th century. Their profound impact on Samoa has become particularly evident in the religious landscape of contemporary society.

What is a Samoan orator?

An orator is a talking chief. There is a culture of oratory which is highly developed, with its own style and language, mainly because communication before the arrival of missionaries was exclusively oral.

What is a Samoan Si I?

The Si’i Alofa, or Si’i for short, is an age-old Samoan custom of showing support from one family to another at important events and gatherings. So for those of you in the know, this is just a tester to see whether you know your way around with a ie toga (fine mat).

What cultures give money at funerals?

It is expected that those who attend the wake or Chinese funeral give money placed in white envelopes to family members. The money is meant to be used for the funeral and should be an odd number. The amount that is given depends on the relationship of the bereaved family and the guest.