Hawaiian Culture

In Hawaiian culture, ʻOhana, meaning family, isn’t just a word; it’s the very foundation of society. It encompasses blood relatives, adopted family, and even close friends, creating a network of support, love, and responsibility that guides every aspect of life. This deep-rooted connection to family shapes values, traditions, and the overall Hawaiian worldview, emphasizing collaboration, respect, and shared experiences. What Does ‘Ohana Truly Mean? Beyond the dictionary definition, ʻOhana represents a profound commitment to interconnectedness. It goes far beyond the nuclear family concept prevalent in Western cultures. It includes grandparents (kūpuna), parents (mākua), children (keiki), aunts, uncles, cousins, and

The ancient temples of Hawaii, known as heiau, stand as powerful reminders of a rich spiritual and social past. These impressive stone structures were not just places of worship but vital centers for community life, political power, and the connection between the Hawaiian people and their gods. Significance of Heiau Imagine Hawaiian society before Western contact. Life revolved around a complex system of beliefs and practices, deeply rooted in the natural world and the power of the divine. Heiau were the physical manifestation of this spiritual understanding, serving as sites for elaborate ceremonies, offerings, and interactions with the gods.

Lua, the ancient Hawaiian martial art, is more than just a fighting style; it’s a deeply ingrained part of Hawaiian culture, history, and spirituality. Practiced in secrecy for centuries, Lua encompasses not only physical combat techniques but also healing practices, bone setting, and a vast understanding of the human body. Today, its resurgence reflects a renewed interest in preserving and celebrating Hawaiian heritage. Origins and History Lua’s origins are shrouded in the mists of pre-contact Hawaii. It wasn’t just a sport or a method of self-defense; it was a sacred and highly guarded practice reserved primarily for the aliʻi

Hawaii’s social fabric has woven itself through a remarkable journey, transforming from the deeply structured kapu system to the vibrant, multicultural tapestry we see today. Understanding this evolution is key to truly appreciating the islands’ unique spirit. It’s a story of resilience and adaptation, and I’ve found that by looking closely, you can see echoes of this history everywhere you go. Ancient Hawaiian Social Order The ancient Hawaiian world revolved around the kapu system. Think of it as a comprehensive set of sacred laws and prohibitions that guided every aspect of life. Every action, from what you ate to

The Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo draws tens of thousands each spring for a week of hula competitions and cultural exhibitions, but the agricultural rhythms that underpin much of Hawaiian tradition are less visible to visitors. This article moves beyond the shoreline to explore the living agricultural and cultural practices that define the islands, from taro patches to sandalwood groves, and explains how travellers can engage with them respectfully. Poi, the starchy Polynesian food paste made from the taro root, is a staple of local cuisine. Hawaii’s cultural revival, which gained momentum in the 1970s, placed renewed emphasis on

Hawaiian mythology and folklore are more than just old stories; they’re a living link to the past, shaping the culture, values, and very soul of the Hawaiian Islands. From the fiery goddess Pele to the mischievous demigod Maui, these tales offer a window into a world where the natural and supernatural intertwine, guiding principles of life, respect for the environment, and intricate social structures. Let’s dive in and unearth some of these legends. The Origins: Kumulipo and Creation The Kumulipo is no ordinary chant; it’s the Hawaiian creation myth, a genealogical epic that stretches back into the darkness before