Gods of the Hawaiians

1872 Words4 Pages

The Hawaiian Islands are well known for their beauty, tranquility, and unique culture that have shaped this state into what we see today. The special bond that the natives have formed between themselves and nature is not exactly one of a kind, but it is something that can truly be admired. Around approximately 300 AD, Hawaii was discovered by Polynesians who arrived by canoe from Tahiti. These migrants brought their polytheistic spirituality and formed a large intricate society with hierarchies consisting of many chiefs. Alongside the ruling of the chiefs, the newborn Hawaiians followed a strict belief system known as Kapu akua otherwise known as the “law of the gods”. The Kapu was a strict set of rules and restraints that dictated all aspects of ancient Hawaiian life, including political. These rules were used as a means to control the lives of lower class and female population in order to honor their gods and maintain balance within their Mana.

Mana was spiritual energy infused in most people and things, including words. Chiefs were thought to have more mana than others; while a small group of people called kauw [untouchables] had none. The Kauw, were forced to live apart from everyone else, so their lack of mana wouldn't drain it away from others (Segisys). Instilling of the Kapu, just like the caste system in India, those who were at the bottom of the social ladder were not allowed to have any type of contact with the higher class, and even less with the chief’s. One Kapu law included punishment to those who would cast their shadow on a king/chief and even those who attempt to look at them directly in the eye. Other examples of these regulations included the forbiddance of men and women from eating together or ...

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