Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 34, Number 1, 1 January 2017 — Makahiki season has arrived [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Makahiki season has arrived

By Claire Ku'uleilani Hughes, Dr. PH„ R.D. Makahiki begins in the month of 'Ikuwā (October-November) by the Hawaiian ealendar. This year, the arrival of Makahiki was aeeompanied by the traditional fanfare. The Makali'i (Pleiades) was seen rising on the eastern sky at sunset, signaling the opening of Makahiki. Heavy seasonal rains and winds arrived, and even a little thunder was heard. 'Ikuwā means "elamorous," "noisy" and "loud voiced" thus, Makahiki weather is expected

to be blustery. The rains and winds are very heavy this year and brought an end to severe and persistent drought conditions in several areas in the state. Some areas were inundated by mueh needed rain. The rains are eontinuing, signaling that all is well in the Hawaiian universe.

Historically, Makahiki eelebrated the return of the god Lono to Hawai'i. Lono, the god of rains, harvests, peaee and physical fitness, was welcomed. Makahiki also marks and welcomes a new year, with winter rains for a new planting season. For our ancestors, Makahiki was a four-month period of spiritual ceremony, recreation and sports contests and rest from daily labor for everyone. Makahiki season was shorter for the planters, as they had to return to harvest and plant some crops. The ceremonies of Makahiki

focused on peaee, plenty, heahh and recreation. These ceremonies motivated our ancestors to renew their commitment to the gods, the ali'i, as well as their family's personal kuleana. In addition to a brief respite from work, Makahiki activities included "tax" collection for the ali'i nui and participating in and enjoying organized competitive games. As Makahiki ceremonies ended, the image of Lono was returned to its heiau. Then, the historic sports competitions began. All attention tumed to staging a "sham battle" between the ali'i's men and

the priests of Kū for all to watch. The sham battles were primarily for ali'i to highlight their athletic and fighting skills and prowess. i A few talented warriors, hoping P for recognition, could enter u the challenges, as well. Many ; other games and competitions were enjoyed. Makahiki proi vided respite for everyone from backbreaking work in the fields and work areas. Enjoyment and excitement eame from watching heroes and athletes compete - as well as witnessing new victors and leaders emerge. Ceremonies and rituals marked the end of Makahiki and a symbolic wa'a (eanoe) was set to sail, returning Lono to Tahiti. Many cultures around the world celebrate the end of summer and their agricultural year and prepare for oncoming winter in a similar way. Many people rejoice in their successes at the year's closing, as well as pause to give thanks to their gods. During the next several weeks, churches throughout Hawai'i will

be aglow with celebrations, and special services and activities. Hawai'i's multi-ethnic population will celebrate with a eomhination of many customs. Santa and Mrs. Claus greet us warmly from the steps of Honolulu Hale. Bells and singing ean be heard coming from churches throughout the city. Christmas lights that outline and illuminate doorways, trees and palms throughout Honolulu City bring bright and silent seasonal cheer. The sights and sounds of this special time of year are designed to fill us with hope, charity, generosity, and kindness. The challenge for eaeh of us is to choose charity and help Honolulu's and Hawai'i's "less fortunate." There are many who need help. If you are looking for somewhere to donate time and help, there are churches, charities and community agencies listed in the telephone book. Ask friends and family to join you. It is the season to show gratitude and to bring enjoyment to as many as we ean. ■

Hālawa huki. - Photo: KaiMarkell