Makahiki

Definition

Makahiki is a traditional Hawaiian festival that celebrates the season of harvest and the god Lono, associated with fertility, agriculture, and peace. This festival typically lasts for four months, during which time war was prohibited, and the focus shifted to feasting, games, and honoring the land's bounty. Makahiki embodies indigenous perspectives on ecology by emphasizing respect for nature and communal practices that sustain both people and the environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Makahiki begins in late October or early November and lasts until late February or early March, marking a time of abundance in crops.
2. During makahiki, people participate in traditional games such as ʻōlelo noʻeau (proverbs) contests and various athletic competitions to honor Lono.
3. The festival involves rituals like the ho'oku'i, which includes the presentation of offerings to Lono to ensure good harvests in the coming year.
4. The makahiki season fosters a sense of community as families come together to celebrate through feasts, storytelling, and cultural activities.
5. Makahiki reflects an ecological perspective by promoting sustainability and stewardship of resources, reminding communities of their interdependence with nature.

Review Questions

• How does makahiki reflect indigenous perspectives on nature and community involvement?
  • Makahiki illustrates indigenous perspectives by showcasing the deep connections between the Hawaiian people and their environment. The festival emphasizes sustainability through practices like resource sharing and communal celebrations that honor the land's bounty. During this time, the focus shifts from warfare to community-building activities such as games and feasting, reinforcing collective responsibility toward ecological stewardship.
• In what ways do rituals performed during makahiki demonstrate reverence for Lono and the natural world?
  • Rituals during makahiki, such as offering food to Lono and performing traditional ceremonies, symbolize gratitude for the gifts of nature. These practices demonstrate a deep respect for agricultural cycles and acknowledge the importance of maintaining harmony with the land. By involving the community in these celebrations, Hawaiians reinforce their connection to both their spiritual beliefs and ecological sustainability.
• Evaluate how makahiki can inform contemporary approaches to ecological sustainability in Hawaiian culture today.
  • Makahiki serves as a powerful reminder of traditional ecological knowledge that can inform modern sustainability practices. By integrating principles such as community cooperation, respect for resources, and seasonal awareness into current environmental efforts, contemporary Hawaiian culture can strengthen its commitment to preserving biodiversity and fostering a healthy ecosystem. Emphasizing cultural heritage through events like makahiki encourages younger generations to connect with their roots while promoting sustainability in today's rapidly changing environment.

Related terms

Lono: Lono is the Hawaiian god of agriculture, fertility, rainfall, and peace, revered during the makahiki season as the bringer of prosperity.

Aloha ʻĀina: A Hawaiian concept that translates to 'love of the land,' reflecting a deep respect and care for the environment and natural resources.

Kapu: Kapu refers to the ancient Hawaiian system of laws and taboos that governed social order and resource management, including restrictions during makahiki.