Why the clapping?

[the_wilderness]

I've got theories but would like to know the reason the Fijians do it...

 

[NAMBATU]

Clapping in general is pretty strange when you think about it.

I like what you're doing so I will make a sharp noise by slapping my hands together repeatedly.

 

[Groggy]

Here's a bit about it.
https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/15348Fijian_Kava_Ceremony_Info_Leaflet.pdf

 

[Krunkie McKrunkface]

keep in mind, too, it is not clapping, but cupped hand clapping specifically. You curve both hands rather than hold them flat and slap against each other, and instead of linig the fingers of both hand together as is don half the time here, it's done with each hand at a 90 degree angle. It would be more accurate to say clapping palms than clapping hands

 

[Bula Kava House]

There's a theory that the loud noise drives away evil spirits.

 

[the_wilderness]

haha @Krunkie McKrunkface I was a flamenco student for a long time so that's my default xD yey