The Canoe Blessing
Ka Lolo Wa`a

A Canoe is Born

The sounds of the pu (conch shell) signal all to witness this pani (closing ceremony) after five years of work. It is raining heavily, a blessing from the gods. Thickly twined maile vines and laua`e ferns decorate the canoe and scent the air.

Ceremonial foods are offered to the canoe deities: kumu (a red fish), ulu (breadfruit), and niu-hiwa (a special variety of coconut). The lolo wa`a (blessing) commences. Hawai`iloa is lowered into the water and a haunting mele inoa (honorary name chant) recalls her conception, labor, and birth. Ho`okupu (gifts), wrapped in fresh leaves, are placed on board. The pu sounds again, bringing closure. Hawai`iloa is ready for her inaugural sail.

Mohala ka pua, ua wehe kaiao.
The blossoms are opening, for dawn is breaking.
One looks forward with joy to a happy event.
(`Olelo No`eau #2179; Pukui 1983)
Sea Trials
Back Gallery of the Hawai`iloa Exhibit
Back to the Hawai'iloa page
Back to the Past Exhibits Page
Copyright © 1995, by Bishop Museum. All rights reserved. All media are for the personal use of students, scholars and the public. Any commercial use or publication of them is strictly prohibited.
If you have any comments/suggestions for the documents on this server, send e-mail to webmaster@bishopmuseum.org

BISHOP MUSEUM
The State Museum of Natural and Cultural History
For Museum Information, call (808) 847-3511

Bishop Museum 1525 Bernice Street Honolulu Hawai‘i 96817-0916 USA
Revised on August 29, 1996 by mcb