Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

In Māori culture, what does the term "tapu" signify?

1. Ordinary things

2. Dangerous items

3. Restricted or sacred status

4. Health outcomes

The correct answer is: Restricted or sacred status

The term "tapu" in Māori culture signifies a restricted or sacred status. It is a fundamental concept that embodies the idea of sacredness and protection, often applied to people, places, and items that hold special significance. Things that are tapu are often set apart from the ordinary and treated with a level of reverence. They may be restricted in terms of access or interaction, reflecting a deep respect for their cultural, spiritual, or historical importance. Understanding "tapu" also requires recognizing its role in the social and spiritual life of Māori communities. It can impose restrictions that govern behavior and interaction to maintain balance and respect within the culture and environment. In contrast, the other options do not encapsulate the core meaning of "tapu." While "ordinary things" refers to the everyday aspects of life, "dangerous items" does not convey the cultural significance associated with tapu. Lastly, while health outcomes might involve considerations of tapu in specific contexts, they do not represent the term's primary meaning. Thus, the significance of tapu focuses on the sacredness and associated restrictions that come with it.