ia malolo i le filemu
The phrase rest in peace in Samoan is ia malolo i le filemu.
This phrase is used as a formal expression of sympathy or a prayer for the deceased, similar to the English 'Rest in Peace'.
Meaning: blessing or expression of hope (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ia (let/may), malolo (rest), i le (in the) and filemu (peace).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the particle ia to express a wish or a prayer, functioning as a subjunctive-like mood for a blessing.
Did you know?
- During traditional Samoan funerals, expressions like ia malolo i le filemu are often accompanied by the offering of fine mats, known as ie toga, to the bereaved family.
- The linguistic ancestor of ia traces back thousands of years to Proto-Austronesian roots, connecting this Samoan prayer to languages as far away as Madagascar.
- If you were to use 'malolo' in a casual setting, you might simply be telling someone to 'take a break' from work or chores.
Examples in context
- Ia malolo i le filemu lona agaga.May his soul rest in peace.
- Ia malolo i le filemu o le loto.May the heart rest in peace.
Example conversation
Manu and Mere are visiting a cemetery together.
- ManuE faigatā lenei aso mo tatou.This day is hard for us.
- MereAe ia malolo i le filemu o ia.But may he rest in peace.
- ManuE moni, ua leai se mafaufau.True, there is no more pain.
- MereE sa'o lava, Manu.That is very true, Manu.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
