Tongan funerals

The influence of Christianity on anga fakatonga (Tongan culture) is seen in the black clothing worn by mourners during the mourning period.

The period of mourning, and thus the obligation to wear black, differs depending on how closely related a mourner is to the deceased.

Those who are not related at all to the deceased should wear fine mats that are fakaʻahu, or smoked over a fire until they are a rich mahogany color.

As soon as the death has occurred all family members will be notified, nowadays often by a radio message, and they are supposed to come to the putu (funeral rites).

In case of a large family, this is a huge and expensive operation with a big ʻumu, and much food.

Closer family will bring huge ngatu and other traditional gifts, and are supposed to stay for the ʻapō (night vigil).

It is headed by Lauaki, the title of the royal undertaker, and only his men, known as the nima tapu ("sacred hands") may touch the dead king's remains.

The ancient kings were buried at Malaʻelahi [to] on the royal island of ʻUiha in Haʻapai, Tonga.

The royal tomb of Malaʻe Lahi on the Tongan island of ʻUiha is an ideal example of how the built environment validates symbolic claims of status, authority and power.

During the initial mourning period the mourners (especially the women) are not supposed to do their hair, but let it hang loose and unattended.

Even as late as 1865 Tēvita ʻUnga, King George Tupou I's son, the crown prince, was described as "minus 2 fingers, cut off as a tribute to some deceased relatives" (as well as having lost one eye).