Native Hawaiian Spirituality

Notes: "Three key concepts that have endured are useful in understanding how Native Hawaiians managed the reciprocal responsibilities involved in maintaining our spiritual harmony with `the myriad universe'. `Mana' (spiritual power) is a part of all aspects of creation. Care must be taken to respect the `mana' of the land, the plants, the animals, the `akua', and other humans. One's own `mana' is not to be neglected or misused. `Malama' (caring) is the means by which we protect the `mana' inherent in all things. Conservation practices, spiritual devotion, caring for all aspects of our health and careful regard for others are some of the ways we `malama' our relationships. .... When we successfully `malama' all our relationships so that the `mana' inherent in them is undisturbed we achieve a state call `pono' (righteousness). To be `pono' is to be in balance with the rest of creation, to meet our obligations. As in all human societies this ideal state is not easily achieved or maintained. While the formal system of `kapu' that once reinforced `pono' behavior ceased to exist in 1819, Native Hawaiians today continue striving to perpetuate the spiritual values, beliefs and practices that define who we are".; Author is a Native Hawaiian and Episcopalian.