Analysing Indigenous Knowledge Woven in Cultural Texts

Abstract

Knowledge, values and beliefs acquired over multiple generations have played a significant role in the survival of indigenous peoples. Mother languages play a critical role in this process. Semiotic tools complement meaning making, and mat weaving has contributed extensively to the transmission of iTaukei knowledge and life stories. In the collection of information and data for this study, the iTaukei Vanua Framework was adopted and ‘talanoa’ utilised as the main tool. The study’s findings indicate that beliefs and values in the iTaukei knowledge systems emerge from distinct cultural contexts. Symbolism that expresses duality and an emphasis on maintaining balance is embraced in mat weaving. Analysis of similar semiotic tools can be undertaken to identify and compare other indigenous knowledge, values and beliefs like those embedded and transmitted in mat-weaving practices.

Keywords:

• Indigenous Knowledge
• Semiotics
• Genre
• Symbolism
• iTaukei

Acknowledgements

The author wishes to acknowledge the useful advice given by the anonymous peer reviewers and, especially, the TAPJA editorial board member for their comments, suggestions and encouragement, towards the publication of this article.