Maka Ihe, The Tip of the Spear

Hawaiian triangle patterns have deep Polynesian roots. In traditional tattoos, triangle symbols and patterns have spiritual significance and identify its wearer within his or her community. Triangles, or maka ihe, represent the tip of the spear in Hawaiian ,Tahitian, Samoan, and Maori cultures.

The spear is significant in ancient Polynesian beliefs because it represents both life and death, and was part of tribal life. A spear represents life in that it is used to hunt, both on land and in the sea. The spear also represents death because it is used as a weapon in hunting and war. 

The spear tip is symbolic of the death of the pork or fish that would be caught with the spear. Additionally, Maka Ihe patterns represent the warrior. They also symbolizes a man’s duty to protect and provide.

Patterns with several triangles, or spearheads, arranged in horizontal and vertical rows are typical in Hawaiian tattoos. In Tahitian tattooing, more intricate pattern styles are typical, with triangles forming swirls and other patterns.

The direction of the spear tip also has symbolic meaning. A triangle or spear tip facing up may suggest one is aggressive or looking for trouble. The spear tip down, however, suggests one is ready to defend, and may use force if necessary.

The maka ihe design, commonly referred nowadays as Hawaiian tribal triangles, transcend the ancient world and tattoo meaning into the printing a graphics world. Hawaiian triangles are often used in t-shirt designs, advertisements, stickers, and other graphic designs.

Check out our Maka Ihe and other Hawaiian & Island designs Here