Story Summary
Discover the legendary Samoan myth of Sina and the Eel. Learn how a story of pursuit and sacrifice led to the creation of the very first coconut tree in Samoa.
In the village of Safune on the island of Savai'i lived a beautiful woman named Sina. She kept a small eel as a pet in a clay jar, but as it grew, it became possessed by a mystical spirit and fell deeply in love with her. Disturbed by the creature's growing size and its constant, obsessive gaze, Sina fled from village to village to escape it. No matter where she went, the eel followed her through the waves and the freshwater pools. Eventually, the eel grew weak and realized its end was near. Before it died, it spoke to Sina, asking her to bury its head in the sand. Sina did as the creature requested, and from that spot grew a tall, slender tree with long fronds and heavy fruit—the first coconut tree. To this day, when one drinks from a coconut, they must place their lips against the three small indentations, which represent the eyes and mouth of the eel, fulfilling its wish to be near Sina forever.
The Moral
The story illustrates the cycle of life and death, showing how sacrifice can lead to new life that sustains an entire culture.
“When you drink from the fruit of this tree, you shall be kissing me.”
Fun Fact
This myth is so central to Samoan culture that the three holes on a coconut are still referred to as the eel’s face throughout many Pacific islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Sina and the Eel?
The story teaches about the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. It illustrates how sacrifice and loss can lead to the creation of something vital and sustaining for a community.
Where did the story of Sina and the Eel originate?
The legend is a foundational myth from Samoa, specifically associated with the village of Safune on the island of Savai'i. It explains the origin of the coconut tree.
What does the coconut represent in the story?
The coconut represents the head of the eel and his eternal love for Sina. Every time someone drinks from the coconut, they are symbolically kissing the eel’s face.
Why did Sina run away from the eel?
Sina fled because the eel, which she had raised from a small pet, grew to a mystical size and followed her everywhere. Its constant, obsessive presence frightened her.
How can you see the eel in a coconut today?
If you look at the base of a husked coconut, there are three indentations. These represent the two eyes and the mouth of the eel from the Samoan legend.
Is there a real place associated with this myth?
Yes, the Mata o le Alelo pool in the village of Safune on Savai'i is traditionally said to be the place where Sina bathed and where the eel lived.
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