According to the Scriptures – the Influence of the Publication of the Christian Scriptures in Maori on Maori Religious Movements

Abstract

This work argues that the religious movements of the New Zealand Maori which arose in response to contact with foreign cultures have generally not been understood sufficiently as studies have tended to consider mainly historical and political aspects and undervalued the religious elements which were fundamental to their origin and development. In addition, most have been viewed in isolation rather than as part of a continuing and developing response. One -factor which was of crucial importance was the availability of the scriptures in Maori translation and the definite influence these texts had on the content of the various movements. When this is considered, many of the religious movements of the past century must be seen in a different light than has usually been done. Overall, the general response of the Maori appears to have been more positive towards Christianity than is often appreciated, and some particular movements which have been commonly judged as opposed to the missions can now be seen to be based on scriptural notions. Publication and distribution of the parts, of the translations corresponded with periods which were characterized by the different types of movements which made up particular times. In this work explanations are given of more than sixty separate movements, showing how the beliefs and practices of each were affected by both tradition and ideas gained from the translated scriptures. These are grouped under their own period, with explanatory chapters outlining the situation of the time and summarizing the collective response.