What role did cosmology play in Polynesian cultures?

Cosmology was fundamentally integral to Polynesian cultures, particularly in guiding navigation and rituals. The Polynesians were remarkable navigators, and their understanding of the stars, celestial bodies, and natural phenomena was rooted deeply in their cosmological beliefs. They used constellations to traverse vast oceanic distances, effectively using the night sky as a map. This navigational expertise was accompanied by specific rituals that honored deities associated with the sea and the stars, creating a holistic framework where cosmology influenced both the practical aspects of navigation and the spiritual dimensions of their journeys.

Additionally, cosmological beliefs dictated various ceremonial practices, making rituals an essential part of their cultural identity. This interplay between navigation and ritual underscored their connection to the environment and the cosmos, enhancing not just their survival as seafarers but also their cultural richness, which was heavily influenced by their understanding of the universe. The other options, while relevant to different aspects of Polynesian culture, do not capture the centrality of cosmology in both the navigational prowess and the ritualistic life of these oceanic societies.