Neither did Metoro ever use the alternative Easter Island word moúga in his rongorongo readings for Bishop Jaussen-

1. There is a certain similarity in shape between mauga (mountain) glyphs and the Egyptian hieroglyph for tree (nehet):

Trees and mountains give shadow from the sunlight.

Another property of trees and mountains (on which trees often grow - in contrast to the open ploughed fields) is to be a hindrance for watchful eyes. Trees and mountains therefore tend to be a haven for fugitives and for people in opposition to the rulers.

In a relief from the Amon Temple of Karnak there is a picture where the Syrian enemies of Pharaoh Seti I are hiding among trees:

(Wilkinson)