Part 8/12:
Perhaps most intriguing is the purpose of the moai. A frequently discussed hypothesis is that the statues represent ancestral figures, serving as a physical manifestation of the islanders’ lineage. This belief underscores the humans' deep-seated connection to their past and the cultural significance of honoring their ancestors. The moai were not merely decorative; they symbolized the power and spiritual authority of the islanders, providing a means through which the community could express gratitude or seek favor from their ancestors.