what does kapu aloha mean in hawaiian

Full Answer

What is Kapu Aloha?

Pua Case, a kumu hula, Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, and kiaʻi mauna (protector of Mauna Kea), articulates that kapu aloha is a way of embodying the sacred, and a sense that one must act in reverence and respect in spaces considered sacred.

What is the meaning of the Hawaiian word aloha?

It was the working philosophy of Native Hawaiians and was presented as a gift to the people of Hawaii. “Aloha” is more than a word of greeting or farewell or a salutation. “Aloha” means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return.

What is a kahako in Hawaiian?

The kahako, a horizontal line written over a vowel. In addition to indicating a longer vowel sound, the presence of a kahako can completely change the meaning of a word. Here’s an example: kala is name for a fish but kalā is the sun. For this article, we have used the ‘okina to spell Hawaiian words.

What is a kahuna in Hawaii?

Outside of Hawaii, you’ve probably heard this word as part of the phrase “the big kahuna.” Often, it refers to someone who’s an important or powerful person—”the big kahuna of the neighborhood,” for example. Traditionally, kahuna are people who practice a trade or an art, such as a kahuna lapaau (a medical practitioner).

What does kapu mean in Hawaii?

“forbiddenThe simplest definition of kapu is “forbidden,” but the root of the term has a deeper connection to Hawaiian history and culture. Prehistoric Hawaii operated under a kapu system which was a universal code of law.

What does Ku Kiai mean?

Those standing for Mauna Kea call themselves kiaʻi, which translates to guardians or protectors. These people are standing for the place they consider their living ancestor as traced through the Kumulipo or Hawaiian creation chant.

Who owns Mauna Kea mountain?

The University of Hawaii currently manages the summit under a 65-year lease from the state of Hawaii that's due to expire in 2033.

What does Kahu mean in Hawaiian?

Honored attendant, guardian, nurse1. n., Honored attendant, guardian, nurse, keeper of ʻunihipili bones, regent, keeper, administrator, warden, caretaker, master, mistress; pastor, minister, reverend, or preacher of a church; one who has a dog, cat, pig, or other pet.

What does Kia I mean?

a guardian or protectorKia? i is a guardian or protector. One who has the kuleana or responsibilities of the protection and preservation of a person, place or thing.

Why is Mauna Kea so sacred to Hawaiians?

Maunakea is a sacred mountain that is said to connect native Hawaiians to the cosmos. According to the Maunakea Visitor Information Station, the mountain is the dwelling place of the goddess Poli'ahu, it is associated with the Hawaiian deities Lilinoe and Waiau, and the summit is considered the realm of the gods.

Why Do Hawaiians oppose TMT?

The protestors do not want the TMT to be built on Mauna Kea, a site that is sacred to Native Hawaiians. The telescope's opponents say that they want to protect the mountain, and that it already houses too many observatories. (There are 13, five of which are supposed to be dismantled before the TMT begins operations.)

Does Hawaii have snow?

Does it snow in Hawaii? The answer is yes, although only on top of the highest peaks on Maui and the Big Island. Every winter, storm systems bring frequent snow storms to elevations generally above 11,000 feet. This means that only Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are impacted.

1. The Deeper Meaning of Aloha (ah-LO-ha)

Although this is probably the most common word you’ll hear and see in Hawaii, many people don’t know the deeper meaning behind this greeting. Yes, aloha can serve as both “hello” and “goodbye,” but when you say aloha to another person, you’re saying so much more. Aloha means literally “presence of breath” (alo: presence; ha: breath).

2. What Does Pono (PO-no) Mean?

Pono is a Hawaiian word that is often translated as “righteousness.” However, like aloha, its meaning extends far beyond this simple definition. Pono, like many words in the Hawaiian language, can embody many different meanings.

3. What Are Slippers (SLIP-ers or SLIP-ahz) in Hawaii?

If you go to a neighbor’s house and see a sign to leave your slippers outside, don’t be confused! “Slippers” (or “slippahs” as it’s often said) is local Pidgin for flip flops. First, a little history:

4. What Does Kokua (ko-KOO-ah) Mean?

Kokua is another Hawaiian word that has a very simple surface meaning—to help. You may see it featured on the tray tables of a Hawaiian Airlines plane, asking you to make sure they’re folded up for everyone’s safety when taking off and landing.

5. What Are Grindz (GRINDS)?

Like “slippers,” grindz is also a Pidgin term you’ll hear in Hawaii. When you hear news of “ono grindz,” head to the source to enjoy delicious (ono) food (grindz), which you’ll find a-plenty in the islands. Some of the local grindz you’ll encounter include:

6. What Does Kapu (ka-POO) Mean?

Kapu literally means “forbidden.” The word dates back to a set of restrictions formerly held in Hawaiian society. For example, men and women eating together was at one time considered kapu. It was also kapu to look directly at the chief or to even come in contact with his shadow, for fear of stealing his mana (life force).

7. What Does Makai (ma-KAI) Mean? What Does Mauka (MOW-ka) Mean?

When you live on an isolated island in the middle of the Pacific, your life revolves around the ocean. Nowhere is this more clear in the Hawaiian words makai and mauka which mean:

Overview

Kapu aloha is an evolving, philosophical code of conduct that is culturally informed by Kanaka Maoli ontologies and epistemologies, being expressed politically through non-violent direct action, and ceremonially through behavioral conduct in alignment with Kanaka Maoli cultural practices and notions of the sacred. The term kapu aloha comes from the merging of two foundational Hawaiian language words kapu (to set apart; to prohibit; to make sacred or holy), and aloha (to l…

Kapu Aloha: Philosophy, Edict, Onto-genealogical-ethos, and Practice

Kapu Aloha's Evolution

See also