Inafa’maolek:  Inaguaiya Yan Kinenprendi Para Todu

   Sharing:  Love and Understanding for All

Inafamaolek - What It Means
Prepared by: Katherine B. Aguon

The Chamorro belief system of good relationships that makes caring for and about one another, and getting along well together, an important social rule; it is an ancient Chamorro social value, which shaped how the Chamorros governed themselves and how they behaved toward one another in dispensing responsibility, loyalty and obligation to/ within families of individuals, communities and members of clans.

There are six ancient Chamorro values that are embedded in the concept of inafa'maolek:

Social Codes of Behavior:

1. Chenchule'- a system of exchange and reciprocity based on the obligation one has toward others, especially in times of need. Giving chenchule' may be in the form of goods, service or money to someone in need. As a member of the familia (Clan), Chenchule' is an important obligation. However, chenchule' to familia is usually in the form of service, as cooking, cleaning, a catch of fish, produce from one’s farm, etc.

2. Manginge'- is the way to express deep respect and reverence to elders, the manåmko'. It consists of sniffing an elder’s hand in order to inhale the elder’s spirit through his or her scent. When done properly, this sign of respect is returned with a praise or blessing from from the elder, as Si Yu'os un benendisi hagå-hu (or) lahi-hu.


3. Mamahlao – is the Chamorro concept of “shame”, a code of behavior that governs how people of good character and upbringing should act with and toward others. Conversely, tai mamahlao, or being without shame, is negative behavior. People who are tai mamahlao are disrespectful; they forget their obligations and responsibilities toward others.

Codes and Practices on the Importance of Interdependence

4. Respetu- is something a decent Chamorro must have, something that must be reflected in the character and behavior, and must make an outward show, especially toward the elderly, the Manåmko'. In the ancient Chamorro society, age is always to be respected. Respect for the aged even outranks respect for social position or authority. It is true that in ancient times, those in high positions and authority must be given respect. Also, respetu applies to nature - a belief that land, sea and sky have lives of their own and must be treated with reverence. This is why we must say “Guella yan Guello” when entering the jungle.

5. Saina yan påtgon – A Chamorro did not simply belong to himself or herself; he or she understood themselves to be part of the familia, community and society.