Oro

Introduction

In Society Islands mythology, Oro is regarded as the god of war and the protector of the people. Although its veneration was practiced in varying ways in the various societies of the Society Islands, such as Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea, and Tahaa, it was regarded as a major religion during the 17th to 18th centuries. The rituals of the secret society of Arioi were linked to the deity.

Physical Traits

The gods of the Pacific Islands are represented in two different ways: As “Ata” and “Too.” Ata is a natural object that humans seek out to represent the god’s incarnation. On the other hand, Too is a man-made object, which is usually made of stone or wood.

In Tahiti, the deity was presented in an effigy made of coconut fiber. It was wrapped in a wooden soul with a mace-shaped body in the middle. The various symbols of the god, such as yellow and red feathers, were also placed within the layers of the coconut fiber. It was stored on a sacred platform and was regularly re-clothed.

Family

Oro was the son of Ta’aroa and Hina. He has three daughters, who are known for their propensity for making trouble. The names of these daughters reflect their disposition like Toi-mata (Axe Eye), Ai-tupua (Head Eater), and Mahu-fatu-rau (Escape from a Hundred Stones). His son Hoa-Tapu, on the other hand, is more favorable as his name means Faithful Friend. 

Upon choosing to marry, Oro created a rainbow between the earth and the heavens and traveled to a place known as Red-ridged Mountain, where he met the daughter of Ta’ata. He then married her, and she bore him a son named Hoa-ta-tabu-iti-te-ra’i. He also had three daughters, namely Toi-mata, Ai’tupua, and Mu-fatu-rau.

Other names

In the Cook Islands Oro had a different personality as a son of Tangaroa and ancestor of the Rarotongan People while on the Marquesas Islands, Oro bore the name Mahui.

Powers and Abilities

In the mythology of Tahiti, Oro is regarded as the god of war. He enjoys fighting and demanding human sacrifices during times of conflict. However, in peacetime, he is regarded as a god of peace.

Modern Day Influence

As the patron of a cult known as the Areoi, Oro is worshipped by its members, who are skilled entertainers and artists. The Areoi hold various festivals and offer offerings to the deity.