| Description |
Discussion of customs
Shell money, in Tok Pisin known as 'sel moni' is called 'tabu' in Kuanua language as 'tokples' or local language.
[Additional note: The 'tabu' shell money has a standard denomination of a fathom length measured with both arms of full length end to end of a string of small marine shells threaded of strips of cane]
In the past generations, the bride price of exchanging dowries for the woman to marry was one hundred and five fathoms. Now, in modern times, the bride price has become more demanding and reaches 400, 500, 600 fathoms of tabu.
As for the death on a person, 'tabu' is part of the customary tradition in the feasting ceremony where the shell money is distributed together with food like pigs (pork) and bananas etc.from the family of the deceased to represent the life of the people and his wealth of shell money shared among the people attending the "kutu tabu" ceremony.
In the tradition of customary practice, the deceased and his clan must always demonstrate the capacity to share shell money wealth 'tabu' upholding his or her standing in the community and society.
(Steven Gagau, May 2024) |
