Sadly, Tonga’s commitment to keeping the Sabbath has become a lightning rod for controversy. In fact, people are deeply divided over how strictly to enforce the law around it. Under the nation’s blue laws, any contract entered into or observed on Sunday is considered void. This legislation brings to bear the cultural, civic, and religious value of the day to the people across the island nation. Here in the capital, Nuku’alofa almost every store keeps its doors shut in mourning. Under the law, only critical services—including hospitals, police, and utilities—can be exempted.
The extremely strict enforcement of this law raises some logistical concerns. Indeed, in 2016 a government policy to exclude bakers from being able to open on Sundays led to an outcry and the proposal’s withdrawal. Given the concerns of the often economically vulnerable tourism industry, the move sparked a significant discussion over personal freedoms versus economic opportunity. These changing expectations have the country now wrestling to reconcile its revolutionary past with 21st century realities. Perhaps understandably, a cacophony of conflicting voices has arisen on both sides of this contentious issue.
Perspectives on Sabbath Observance
To local resident Lano Fonua, keeping the Sabbath means approaching worship in a variety of ways. This day, he believes, should be used in extraordinary ways. He’s an advocate for everyone to celebrate – by any means necessary.
“Holiness is not a ritual confined to a day, but a way of life,” – a commenter on social media.
In addition to defending the success of his government, Fonua goes further, arguing that the observance of Sunday makes Tonga special. He stated, “It makes Tonga special on Sunday… as long as it’s respectful and done in the right way.” He feels that fancy meals out on Sunday with the family after church is nothing wrong with that. This is only true as long as the commitment comes from a good place.
“Taking your family out after church to go for Chinese food, what’s wrong with that if it’s being done from the right place?” – Lano Fonua
Elder ‘Aiona, a Mormon missionary, advocates vociferously for a return to the tradition Sabbath keeping. He reminds Tongans to continue observing their traditions and spiritual practices in the face of contemporary pressures.
“The Sabbath day here in Tonga is kept very well in my opinion,” – Elder ‘Aiona.
Economic Implications for Tourism
There’s no denying that the Tongan tourism industry is missing the mark at best with their rigid damaging strict Sabbath laws. Kami Simana, an owner of a small resort, met resident opposition when he tried to start opening on Sundays. He makes the case that in order for the tourism industry to flourish, local businesses need to be open all week long, Sundays included.
“Otherwise, there will be no more tourists [coming] to Tonga,” – Simana Kami.
Kami’s perspective is emblematic of a larger feeling developing among some locals. Revered heritage set aside, they feel a need to cater to the economic imperative. Opposition to the government’s Sunday trading proposals have taken to social media. Industry is sharing its concerns, and there is a widespread concern that enforcing strict regulations could have negative implications.
“That’s sad for me… People are hypocrites,” – Simana Kami.
Upholding Cultural Values
As Genny notes, most Tongans adamantly believe in maintaining their traditional values. So too do they passionately defend their faith in this discussion. Recently, King Tupou VI has called on his subjects to maintain the practice of keeping the Sabbath, highlighting its cultural importance in Tongan society. As one local put it, “Keeping this tradition alive…is a huge factor in our identity and morale and spiritual health.”
“Sunday is a day for worship and rest — not for business,” – a statement reflecting public sentiment.
As Talita Kefu, the cook behind the 4Kitchens blog, reminds here, keeping Sabbath really does come down to what you choose. She’s fiercely passionate about the idea that intent is greater than show—in faith and in life. This assumption extends to how people practice their cultures.
“Let’s respect and live by our culture, our faith and the law by keeping Sunday holy,” – another statement resonating with advocates for traditional observance.
Conversations are crackling across the digital and real-world landscape. Tonga, as you can see, is unapologetically at a crossroads between the old and the new. The now bitter debate over the museum achieved ironic notoriety for the often fraught process of balancing cultural heritage with 21st century social realities.
