
Answers Within
This carving is called 'Answers Within'. It represents the duplicity of life where we can either be a leaf blown about by the wind of life, or as a result, we can transform ourselves into a 'Sail' and travel within ourselves to find the state of true happiness.
The hole represents looking and going ‘within’ to find all of the answers we desire. Generally, as this pendant hangs around our neck, the hole is located at our heart level indicating that we can look deep into our heart for the answers.
For Answers, (look) Within
'Look inside the hole in the middle of the carving and find wisdom and peace.
This carving is called 'Answers Within'. Thousands of years ago, the ancestors of Māori journeyed out of South-East Asia and into the Pacific. They sailed in waka (canoes), and were some of the world's greatest canoe builders, navigators, and mariners. This carving represents the duplicity of life where we can either be a leaf blown about by the wind of life, or as a result, we can transform ourselves into a 'Sail' and travel within ourselves to find the state of true happiness.
The hole represents looking and going ‘within’ to find all of the answers we desire.
Generally, as this pendant hangs around our neck, the hole is located at our heart level indicating that we can look deep into our heart for the answers.
The Koru designs also have significance. The koru symbol is common in New Zealand and is inspired by the unfurling of the new fern fronds.
In this carving they represent the inner journey we need to traverse and the new beginnings this provides us. Meanings associated with this are new growth, new beginnings and spiritual awakening. There are 20 koru designed on the front of the carving. Adding these to the central theme of the hole in the middle of the caving equates to 21 elements being symbolised. This represents various stages of the journey towards permanent inner peace.
When we hoist the sail of wisdom and sail within, we will cross the ocean of inner obstacles that prevent our happiness and potentials from unfolding.
Hei konā rā (goodbye)
Andrew Doughty
Database Reference: 000-51