What are the Polynesian symbols for family strength perseverance health?

I would suggest to start your search here http://www.buzzle.com/articles/polynesian-tattoo-meanings.html to get a general overview. However, you should know that Polynesian tattoos cover a broad range of tattoo styles… some examples are Hawaiian tattoos and Maori tattoos, but there are others styles like Samoan, Marquesan and Tahitian as well.

Each island in Polynesia has its own style, and while there may be similarities between the imagery used, interpretations of the styles vary.

Be aware that these tattoos have very specific meanings. Thus, it is important that your tattoo artist is knowledgeable about the placement and meaning of designs.

To be on safe side, research the meanings of the many symbols used by yourself. There is one great resource… it’s an online handbook  Meanings of Tribal Tattoo Designs – Online Dictionary. There, you will learn also the meanings of not just the symbols that are being used but the meanings based on the location of the symbols on the body.

Last but not least you should also check this book The Polynesian Tattoo Today. This compilation of over 200 images presents some of the finest work being done both in the islands and abroad. In this book you will also find a special chapter where top tattooists are featured, presenting their personal histories and philosophical approaches to their work.

This collection is a “Must have” for anyone with an interest in body art. 296 pages Full-color or visit following resources.

On Buzzle.com (Intelligent Life on The Web) following explanations have been found

 

Polynesian Tattoo Meanings

Apart from these Polynesian tattoo designs, there are many other traditional tattoo designs that have gained popularity in the modern world. The main reason for people to opt for these tattoo designs is that they are loaded with meanings. Let us take a look at some of them.

Gecko: The Gecko is a type of lizard which were considered to have supernatural powers by the Polynesian people. The Gecko was feared by the people of Polynesia.

Sharks: The ancient people of Polynesia considered sharks sacred as well as powerful animals. Hence, shark tattoos were considered to be a protective cover from an individual’s enemies. Apart from sharks, even shark’s teeth is a tattoo design that denotes protection.

Shells: In Polynesian culture, shells were used as currency, and so a tattoo made of shells denotes wealth.

Tiki: Tiki tattoo designs come from tiki art which consist of carvings and statues of a human figure called ‘Tiki’. Tiki is believed to be the first human, and also a mythical ancestor of humans. The most prominent feature of Tiki is closed eyes, because he has a powerful sense of smell due to which he is able to sense any kind of problem before actually seeing it.

Turtles: The turtle is also a popular Polynesian tattoo design. This is because it represents long life and fertility, something that every human being looks for.

Source: Buzzle.com

Mangopares or hammerhead sharks: The hammerhead shark is a symbol of the tenacity and strength needed to achieve the goal.

Last but not least, check this very interesting article which will give you a new perspective on this matter. Ta Moko Maori Tattoo – When Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Insult

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