In traditional wharenui (meeting house) architecture, what does the central ridge beam (tahuhu) symbolize?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. The backbone or spine of the tribal ancestor
- Step 1: The wharenui represents the physical body of the ancestor. Step 2. The tekoteko at the apex is the head, the maihi (bargeboards) are the arms, the tahuhu is the spine, and the heke (rafters) are the ribs. Answer: The backbone or spine of the tribal ancestor. Why not the others: Entering the wharenui is entering into the embrace of the ancestor.
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