Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Haka: This is how to mourn a warrior.

My son sent me the video below of a recent Haka by a New Zealand military unit.
This is the translation:
We are ready, yes we are ready If we the warriors of the Second First should go to war Beware enemy, beware! Those of you who wish to do battle with us, where are you? Come stand face to face with us and we will strike you down Be strong warriors of the Second First We will gather the energy from the Earth to strengthen our bodies to destroy our enemies Rise up, soldiers of Second First to the call of battle We will fight and destroy our enemies and send them to the dark pits of hell!
Haka is used throughout New Zealand by many, not only Māori, to demonstrate their collective thoughts. There is a haka for each of the Services, as well as the Defence Force. Units with the NZ Army have their own haka. This video shows the soldiers of 2/1 RNZIR Battalion performing their Unit haka, powerfully acknowledging the lives and feats of their fallen comrades as they come onto the Unit's parade ground. It is also an emotive farewell for they will leave via the waharoa (the carved entrance way) for the very last time.
Haka --sometimes termed a posture dance could also be described as a chant with actions. There are various forms of haka; some with weapons some without, some have set actions others may be 'free style.' Haka is used by Māori (indigenous people of New Zealand) for a myriad of reasons; to challenge or express defiance or contempt, to demonstrate approval or appreciation, to encourage or to discourage, to acknowledge feats and achievements, to welcome, to farewell, as an expression of pride, happiness or sorrow. There is almost no inappropriate occasion for haka; it is an outward display of inner thoughts and emotions. Within the context of an occasion it is abundantly clear which emotion is being expressed.
2nd 1st Farewell Their Fallen Comrades With A Huge Haka

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

A warrior's farewell, by warriors.

B Woodman
III-per

Anonymous said...

A wonderful tribute!

RVN11B said...

Chills go up and down my spine every time I see this. I would not complain if my passing was commemorated this way.

Arkindole said...

Retro war Haka for the win...(plus ample soft metal).

https://youtu.be/54XeuHHFc8o

Anonymous said...

Politicians and conniving humans have used and harnessed men's inner warrior spirit to do their dirty work for them for as long as we have been living in groups. I have nothing but respect for the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend the ones of their loved ones.

Anonymous said...

Now , try on the powhiri "welcome"

Modified somewhat with secret service and a bit of distance
Normally engaged at spitting distances

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fag_MhKByhA