According to the legend, a long time ago, a flying fox (a type of bat) discovered the kava plant on the island of Tonga. The flying fox ate the leaves of the plant and became so intoxicated that it fell from the tree and appeared to be dead.
The flying fox was taken to a nearby village where the villagers decided to hold a funeral for the creature. However, as the ceremony was taking place, the flying fox suddenly woke up and flew away, much to the amazement of the villagers.
The villagers realized that the kava plant had a powerful effect and decided to use it in their own ceremonies. They began to hold a new ceremony, known as the fai kava, which became an important part of Tongan culture.
The fai kava ceremony involves the preparation and consumption of kava, a drink made from the roots of the kava plant. The ceremony is a symbol of unity, respect, and community, and is often used to welcome visitors and mark important occasions.
The legend of the flying fox and the creation of the fai kava ceremony is an important part of Tongan folklore and culture. It is a reminder of the close relationship between the people of Tonga and the natural world, and of the power of tradition and storytelling in shaping a culture’s identity.