An other meaning of Ana Kai Tangata
The name Ana Kai Tangata has led to various speculations due to the different translations. On one hand, Ana, means “cave”; Tangata, means “man”; and Kai, means “to eat” in modern Rapa Nui. For which, the cave is referred to as “the cave of the cannibals” or of the “man-eaters”. However, there is no archaeological proof or any oral traditions that confirm that the Rapa Nui practiced cannibalism.
On the other hand, the word Kai in ancient Rapanui may have meant “to gather”, “to count” or “to teach”, so you could actually say that this cave was a place used for meetings or providing some form of education. In fact, apparently at some point in history, this cave was a shipyard and port, so some researchers say it could have been used “to teach” how to make canoes.
An other meaning of Ana Kai Tangata
The name Ana Kai Tangata has led to various speculations due to the different translations. On one hand, Ana, means “cave”; Tangata, means “man”; and Kai, means “to eat” in modern Rapa Nui. For which, the cave is referred to as “the cave of the cannibals” or of the “man-eaters”. However, there is no archaeological proof or any oral traditions that confirm that the Rapa Nui practiced cannibalism.
On the other hand, the word Kai in ancient Rapanui may have meant “to gather”, “to count” or “to teach”, so you could actually say that this cave was a place used for meetings or providing some form of education. In fact, apparently at some point in history, this cave was a shipyard and port, so some researchers say it could have been used “to teach” how to make canoes.