Cibi

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The Cibi (pronounced IPA: [ðimbi]) is a Fijian war dance, performed by the national rugby union team before each match.

The origins of the cibi date back to the country's warring times with their Pacific neighbours. On their return home the warriors heralded their victory by displaying flags - one for every enemy slain. They were met by the women with songs and accompanying gestures - often obscene! The cibi was meant for open battle to inspire the troops, but it was sung with more vigour when the victorious army returned home to celebrate.

In 1939 when Fiji prepared for its first-ever tour of New Zealand, the captain, Ratu Sir George Cakobau, thought his team should have a war dance to match the All Blacks' haka. His team adopted the cibi and went on to become the only team to remain unbeaten on a full tour to New Zealand.

The Cibi

Fijian English

Ai tei vovo, tei vovo
E ya, e ya, e ya, e ya;
Tei vovo, tei vovo
E ya, e ya, e ya, e ya

Rai tu mai, rai tu mai
Oi au a virviri kemu bai
Rai tu mai, rai ti mai
Oi au a virviri kemu bai

Toa yalewa, toa yalewa
Veico, veico, veico
Au tabu moce koi au
Au moce ga ki domo ni biau

E luvu koto ki ra nomu waqa
O kaya beka au sa luvu sara
Nomu bai e wawa mere
Au tokia ga ka tasere

Make ready, make ready
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh;
Make ready, make ready
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh

Look hither, look hither
I build a breastwork for you,
Look hither, look hither
I build a breastwork for you

A cock and a hen,
They attack, attack, attack
It is tabu for me to slumber
Except to the sound of breakers

Your ship is sunk below
Don't think I'm drowned too.
Your defence is just waiting
To crumble when I prick it.

See also

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