Turaga

Turaga is a term used in several Pacific languages, notably Fijian, to denote an elder man or a village chief. It functions as an honorific for male community leaders and figures of authority in traditional social structures. The exact role can vary between communities, but turaga generally denotes respect and governance within kinship and village networks.

In popular culture, the word gained broader recognition through LEGO's Bionicle franchise, where Turaga are the wise elder leaders of the Matoran villages. In the lore, Turaga are typically former Toa who relinquished their elemental powers to guide and protect their people, serving as mentors to the Toa and as custodians of tradition and knowledge. The title is borne by notable characters within the series, such as Turaga Vakama, Turaga Nokama, Turaga Matau, Turaga Onewa, Turaga Nuju, and Turaga Whenua.

The Turaga concept in Bionicle contrasts with the more general cultural use by presenting a formal rank within a fictional world, tied to leadership, wisdom, and stewardship. Outside of Bionicle, turaga remains a term associated with male elders or chiefs in Pacific languages, reflecting its roots in community leadership and respect for age and experience.