We have found two different hônu designs, what may be called the 'ignition turtle' and the 'quenching turtle' (water quenches fire), here exemplified from G:
At new year, in ancient times all over the world, when a new ceremonial fire was to be ignited - magically inducing the winter solstice sun to come alive again - the old fire was first 'quenched'. The Maya Indians offer a good example. On Easter Island there is a story about how the explorers ignited a new fire at Haga Hônu on the northern coast. According to the sacred geography of the island Haga Hônu lies at the beginning of autumn (fall). After sun has risen by way of the southern coast up to Poike (maximum) he descends along the northern coast. Logically, if the old sun dies at autumn equinox it must also be the time for a new fire. A new year may therefore be regarded as beginning with autumn equinox. Fires function as a way to contact the gods high above in heaven and fires were used at all crucial times of the year. Therefore, to light a fire does not necessarily imply that a new year is inaugurated, only that a major new period is beginning. |
