2 min read•Last Updated on July 24, 2024
The Hawaiian language is the cornerstone of Hawaiian identity, reflecting a unique worldview and ancestral wisdom. It shapes social interactions, preserves traditional knowledge, and is crucial for cultural practices like hula and navigation. The language's structure and vocabulary emphasize connection to nature and encode cultural values.
Language loss due to the 1896 ban on Hawaiian in schools led to erosion of traditional knowledge. However, revitalization efforts through immersion schools and community initiatives have renewed pride in Hawaiian heritage. The language remains essential for spiritual connections, land stewardship, and contemporary cultural practices.
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Hawaiian language - Wikipedia View original
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Hawaiian language - Wikipedia View original
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The Art of Storytelling Through Hula - Hawaiian Cultural L… | Flickr View original
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Orality – Indigenous Knowledge through Oral Narratives | ETEC540: Text Technologies View original
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Hawaiian language - Wikipedia View original
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Act 51 refers to legislation passed in Hawaii in 1974 that aimed to promote the use of the Hawaiian language and integrate it into the educational system. This act recognized Hawaiian as one of the official languages of the state, allowing for its revitalization and preservation, which is vital in maintaining cultural identity and heritage.
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Act 51 refers to legislation passed in Hawaii in 1974 that aimed to promote the use of the Hawaiian language and integrate it into the educational system. This act recognized Hawaiian as one of the official languages of the state, allowing for its revitalization and preservation, which is vital in maintaining cultural identity and heritage.
Term 1 of 35
Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance form that combines rhythmic movement, chant, and music to convey stories, emotions, and cultural values. This art form is deeply rooted in Hawaiian oral traditions, embodying the history, spirituality, and identity of the Hawaiian people.
Mele: A traditional Hawaiian chant or song that often accompanies hula performances, used to convey stories or express feelings.
Oli: A type of Hawaiian chant that is performed without instruments and often serves a ceremonial purpose, connecting spiritual beliefs with cultural practices.
Kumu Hula: A hula teacher or master who imparts knowledge and skills related to hula and its cultural significance to students.
Language loss refers to the process where a language, often due to social, cultural, or political pressures, becomes no longer spoken or used by a community. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in Hawaiian culture, where the decline of the Hawaiian language has significant implications for identity, heritage, and cultural continuity. The loss of a language can erase traditional knowledge, stories, and connections to ancestral roots, making it crucial to understand its impact on communities and cultures.
language revitalization: The efforts made to restore and promote the use of a language that is at risk of disappearing, often involving education, community engagement, and cultural programs.
cultural identity: The sense of belonging to a group based on shared characteristics such as language, traditions, and values that shape an individual's sense of self.
endangered languages: Languages that are at risk of falling out of use as their speakers shift to speaking another language, often leading to language extinction.
Mele koʻihonua refers to a type of Hawaiian chant or song that focuses on genealogy and the connection between people, land, and the cosmos. This form of mele emphasizes the importance of ancestry and place, showcasing how language serves as a vital means to preserve history, culture, and identity within Hawaiian society.
Oli: A traditional Hawaiian chant that is often used in ceremonial settings, characterized by its rhythmic delivery and deep cultural significance.
Pule: A prayer or invocation in Hawaiian culture that often accompanies rituals and ceremonies, emphasizing spiritual connection and community.
Kumu: A teacher or source of knowledge in Hawaiian culture, particularly in relation to the teaching of language, history, and cultural practices.
Kūpuna refers to ancestors or elder family members in Hawaiian culture, embodying wisdom, guidance, and the lineage that connects past generations to the present. This term is deeply rooted in the values of respect and reverence for one's family and heritage, and it highlights the importance of familial relationships and genealogy. In Hawaiian traditions, kūpuna serve as the custodians of knowledge, preserving cultural practices, beliefs, and language that are essential for the identity of the community.
ohana: A Hawaiian term meaning family, which emphasizes the connection between all members, including extended family and friends, recognizing the importance of unity and support.
moʻokūʻauhau: The Hawaiian word for genealogy, which refers to the lineage and ancestral connections that are vital in understanding one's identity and place within the community.
mana: A spiritual energy or power that is believed to reside in people, objects, and the environment; it is often associated with ancestral connections and the wisdom of kūpuna.
Hānai refers to a traditional Hawaiian practice of fostering or adopting children outside of the biological family, often creating deep familial ties and connections within the community. This practice emphasizes the importance of extended family relationships and communal support, showcasing a different understanding of kinship that goes beyond blood relations.
Ohana: Ohana means family in Hawaiian culture and signifies that family extends beyond immediate relatives to include all those connected by love and support.
Aikane: Aikane refers to a close companion or friend in Hawaiian culture, often used to describe deep friendships that can have familial qualities.
Mālama: Mālama means to care for, preserve, or protect and reflects the values of stewardship and responsibility within Hawaiian communities, including caring for children.
Loko iʻa are traditional Hawaiian fishponds that were ingeniously designed to cultivate fish in a sustainable way. These systems reflect the deep understanding of marine ecosystems by early Hawaiians, showcasing their sophisticated methods of resource management and adaptation to their environment.
Auhupuaʻa: A traditional Hawaiian land division system that extends from the mountains to the sea, integrating various resources and management practices for sustainability.
Kānaka Maoli: The native Hawaiian people who have a profound connection to their land, culture, and traditional practices, including sustainable fishing methods.
Makāhā: A sluice gate used in loko iʻa systems to control the flow of water and fish, essential for maintaining the health of the fishpond.
Ahupuaʻa is a traditional Hawaiian land division that typically extends from the mountains to the sea, encompassing all the natural resources within its boundaries. This system was essential for resource management and social structure, allowing communities to sustain themselves and develop a deep relationship with the land and ocean.
Kona: A term that refers to the leeward side of the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its agricultural bounty and distinct climate, often associated with specific ahupuaʻa.
Kapu: A system of laws and regulations in ancient Hawaiian society that governed social behavior, resource use, and spiritual practices, often linked to the stewardship of ahupuaʻa.
Mālama ʻāina: A Hawaiian phrase meaning 'to care for the land,' which reflects the responsibility of communities to manage their ahupuaʻa sustainably.
Pule refers to prayer or invocation in Hawaiian culture, emphasizing the significance of spiritual communication. It is a vital aspect of Hawaiian spirituality, reflecting a deep connection with the divine, ancestors, and the natural world. Pule is often performed in various contexts, from personal reflection to communal ceremonies, highlighting the role of language in expressing beliefs and values.
mana: Mana is a spiritual energy or life force that resides in people, objects, and the environment, essential for rituals and cultural practices.
kapu: Kapu is a set of religious laws and practices that govern social behavior and sacred spaces within Hawaiian culture.
oli: Oli are traditional Hawaiian chants that convey history, values, and spirituality, often used alongside pule in various ceremonies.
Oli refers to the traditional Hawaiian chant that is an essential form of oral expression, conveying cultural, spiritual, and historical narratives. This art form serves as a way to preserve language and heritage, showcasing the deep connection between the community, their values, and their identity. Oli is often performed in various contexts, including ceremonies and celebrations, making it a vital aspect of cultural practices and language revival efforts in Hawaii.
mele: Mele is a Hawaiian term for song or chant, similar to oli but often more structured and set to music. Mele encompasses various forms of expression, including praises, histories, and stories.
mo'olelo: Mo'olelo refers to traditional Hawaiian storytelling that shares history, genealogy, and cultural lessons. It is often conveyed through oral tradition and is integral to preserving Hawaiian identity.
hula: Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance that combines movement with oli or mele to tell stories and convey meanings. It emphasizes the importance of rhythm and expression in Hawaiian culture.
Lau net refers to a traditional Hawaiian fishing method that involves using a net made from lauhala (pandanus leaves) or other plant materials. This technique is deeply connected to Hawaiian culture, showcasing the importance of sustainable practices and the connection between the people and their environment.
Ahi: Ahi, or yellowfin tuna, is a prized fish in Hawaiian culture, often caught using traditional fishing methods like the lau net.
Kālua: Kālua is a traditional Hawaiian cooking method that involves cooking food in an underground oven, often used for preparing fish caught with methods like the lau net.
Hāʻena: Hāʻena refers to coastal areas in Hawaii where traditional fishing practices, including the use of lau nets, are integral to community life and sustenance.
Waʻa kaulua refers to the double-hulled canoe that is a significant symbol of Hawaiian navigation, culture, and identity. These canoes are designed for long-distance travel over the ocean, showcasing the advanced maritime skills of Native Hawaiians. The waʻa kaulua is not just a vessel; it embodies the spirit of exploration, connection to ancestors, and the importance of the ocean in Hawaiian life.
waʻa: The Hawaiian word for canoe, which can refer to any type of canoe but is often associated with traditional vessels used in Polynesian navigation.
wayfinding: An ancient Polynesian navigational technique that involves using natural elements such as stars, ocean currents, and bird behavior to navigate across vast ocean distances.
ʻāina: The Hawaiian term for land, which is deeply connected to cultural identity, stewardship, and the relationship between people and their environment.
Loʻi kalo refers to the traditional Hawaiian taro patches, which are wetland fields specifically cultivated for growing taro, a staple food in Hawaiian culture. These irrigated fields are vital for both agriculture and cultural practices, as they represent the connection between the land and the people, illustrating the adaptation of early Hawaiians to their environment and their agricultural innovations.
kalo: Kalo is the Hawaiian word for taro, a root vegetable that is a central part of Hawaiian cuisine and culture, often used to make poi.
ahupuaʻa: An ahupuaʻa is a traditional Hawaiian land division that stretches from the mountains to the sea, encompassing various ecosystems and resources for sustainable living.
loko iʻa: Loko iʻa refers to traditional Hawaiian fishponds, which were used for aquaculture and represent another innovative adaptation of resource management by early Hawaiians.
Ke kula kaiapuni refers to Hawaiian language immersion schools that focus on teaching students in Hawaiian, helping to preserve and revitalize the Hawaiian language and culture. These schools play a crucial role in ensuring that the language is passed down through generations, making it a cornerstone of cultural identity for Native Hawaiians.
ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: The Hawaiian language, which is an official language of the State of Hawaii and is integral to Hawaiian identity and culture.
Hawaiian Renaissance: A cultural movement in the late 20th century that sought to revive and promote Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions.
Kākoʻo: Support or assistance; in the context of education, it refers to the community's role in supporting Hawaiian immersion programs.
Pūnana leo refers to Hawaiian language immersion preschools designed to revitalize and promote 'Ōlelo Hawai'i among young children. These schools serve as a critical part of the effort to maintain Hawaiian culture and identity, emphasizing the importance of language in nurturing a connection to heritage and community.
'Ōlelo Hawai'i: 'Ōlelo Hawai'i is the Hawaiian language, an essential component of Hawaiian culture, which reflects the history, values, and traditions of the Hawaiian people.
Kula Kaiapuni: Kula Kaiapuni is a Hawaiian language immersion program for K-12 students that builds on the foundation provided by pūnana leo, continuing the use of 'Ōlelo Hawai'i in education.
Aloha ʻĀina: Aloha ʻĀina is a term expressing love for the land, embodying the deep connection between Hawaiian people and their environment, which is often taught in pūnana leo settings through cultural practices.
Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in Hawaii, rising over 13,800 feet above sea level, and is a dormant volcano on the Big Island. This iconic peak holds immense cultural significance for Native Hawaiians, being considered a sacred site and a source of deep spiritual connection to their ancestors and the land. Mauna Kea's unique geography and geology provide insights into volcanic activity, biodiversity, and traditional Hawaiian practices related to land and astronomy.
Pele: Pele is the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, known for her fierce nature and as the creator of the Hawaiian Islands through volcanic activity.
Kūkaʻilimoku: Kūkaʻilimoku is the Hawaiian god of war, often associated with the land and the defense of territory, reflecting the importance of land in Hawaiian culture.
Aloha ʻĀina: Aloha ʻĀina translates to 'love of the land,' embodying the deep connection Hawaiians have with their environment and the responsibilities that come with it.
Kāne is a significant figure in Hawaiian culture, representing the god of procreation, fresh water, and the male principle in Hawaiian mythology. He is often associated with creation and fertility, playing a vital role in the spiritual and cultural identity of the Hawaiian people, embodying the essence of life and growth.
Kanaloa: Kanaloa is another important deity in Hawaiian mythology, often associated with the ocean, healing, and the spirit of the sea.
Pele: Pele is the goddess of fire and volcanoes in Hawaiian mythology, symbolizing transformation and the power of creation through destruction.
Aumakua: Aumakua are ancestral guardian spirits in Hawaiian culture that often take the form of animals and are believed to provide protection and guidance to families.
Kumulipo is a traditional Hawaiian creation chant that tells the story of the origins of the universe, humanity, and the Hawaiian people. It serves as a cultural narrative that connects spirituality, genealogy, and the natural world, highlighting the importance of relationships within Hawaiian cosmology. This chant is not just a tale; it encapsulates the essence of Hawaiian identity, values, and history.
moʻokūʻauhau: Moʻokūʻauhau refers to genealogy in Hawaiian culture, tracing lineage and familial connections that are central to understanding one’s identity.
kapu: Kapu is a system of sacred laws and prohibitions in ancient Hawaiian society, governing behavior and interactions with the environment.
ākau: Ākau means north in Hawaiian and is often associated with spiritual pathways and the direction from which life flows in traditional belief systems.
The Merrie Monarch Festival is an annual cultural event held in Hilo, Hawaii, celebrating the Hawaiian tradition of hula and honoring King David Kalākaua, who was instrumental in the revival of Hawaiian culture. This week-long festival includes hula competitions, crafts fairs, and cultural workshops, showcasing the importance of language, arts, and traditions within Hawaiian culture.
Hula: A traditional Hawaiian dance that combines movement, chant, and music to tell stories and express emotions, often serving as a vital means of preserving cultural narratives.
King David Kalākaua: The last reigning king of the Kingdom of Hawaii, known for his efforts to revive Hawaiian culture and traditions during his reign from 1874 to 1891.
‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: The Hawaiian language, which plays a crucial role in cultural identity and is an essential component of the oral traditions and practices celebrated during events like the Merrie Monarch Festival.
Hōkūleʻa is a traditional Hawaiian double-hulled voyaging canoe that represents the revival of Polynesian navigation and the deep cultural significance of the ocean in Hawaiian identity. This canoe is not just a vessel; it embodies the knowledge of navigation by the stars, winds, and ocean currents, showcasing the importance of language and cultural practices that sustain this navigational heritage.
Wayfinding: The art of navigating by observing natural signs such as stars, ocean swells, and winds, essential to traditional Polynesian voyaging.
Mālama ʻĀina: A Hawaiian concept that emphasizes the relationship between people and the land, promoting stewardship and respect for natural resources.
Kānaka Maoli: The Native Hawaiian people who have a unique cultural identity shaped by their language, traditions, and connection to the land and sea.