Umu iti
The fire coals were first prepared. Originally the Polynesian people used to dig a traditional oven directly in the ground meant for 2 purposes :
– The first was to cook the Ti, the plant root of the Auti (Cordyline fructicosa) which was designated to be eaten during the dry season between May to November, Matari’ î i raro. When the tuber was cooked, it could be conserved for 9 or 12 months, that was essential for this shortage season.
– The second purpose was a more spiritual one. Polynesian people think that they can purify their body and their mind with the fire walk on the traditional oven.
The fire walk ritual is supervised by the local shaman, Tahu’a. He prepares the traditional oven from 6:00 am with the very combustible wood, the Ati and volcanic stones. The ceremony of fire walk begins around 6:00 pm with presents and incantatory dances. After a long spiritual preparation the shaman is the first one who crosses the oven (8 metres long). If he is not burned that means that he has the blessing of gods and the ceremony can continue. Then he invites the public to follow him and to do the fire walk. He explains to uncertain people that they have just to believe…
Nowadays, this incredible fire walk is frequently practiced. Luckily, the event has never been exploited in spite of the impact of tourism in French Polynesia.